p.1 #1 · p.1 #1 · Using Canon's 200-400mm zoom in a Landcruiser
While in Namibia last year I had a tough time using long lenses in the cramped back seat of a Landcruiser. Bean bags didn't work all that well, but were better than nothing. An Aussie colleague discovered recently while shooting in Africa that they were all but useless for Canon's new 200-400mm zoom lens because they blocked use of the zoom and focus controls. However, there is a handy device available in the exercise department of many sporting good stores, a GoFit Door Anchor. The strap offers a quite usable 3-dimension range of motion and is perfect for the cramped quarters of a Land Cruiser. Lenses mount and dismount very easily and the 200-400 with a 5D Mk3 balances perfectly. The setup leaves the focus and zoom controls completely unimpeded and you can operate the camera with only a single hand. The only flaw is that the whole setup comes crashing down if you open the car door, so don't do that.
p.1 #5 · p.1 #5 · Using Canon's 200-400mm zoom in a Landcruiser
Great idea. However I don't see the need for the RRS bar support with the rollers to support a rotating collar.
Seems to be more cumbersome than its worth.
p.1 #7 · p.1 #7 · Using Canon's 200-400mm zoom in a Landcruiser
it's a good idea.. altho it could have a velcro strap around the back of the tripod foot to secure it from slipping out of the loop.. if my 500mm or 600mm were to slip out the window it'd be game over
p.1 #8 · p.1 #8 · Using Canon's 200-400mm zoom in a Landcruiser
There's a more refined version, where the strap fits around the top of the door and is secured with Velcro. The attachment point to the foot is actually a Arca Swiss type clamp so the camera can't be released. I believe it's called the "Sky Hook" and is sold by an FM member. http://skyhookgimbal.com/index.html
p.1 #9 · p.1 #9 · Using Canon's 200-400mm zoom in a Landcruiser
Hi Al,
Thanks for the tip about he Skyhook, that's the same direction I was heading next, but apparently someone beat me to it. The Velcro loop and Arca Swiss plate should work perfectly, and even better, provide a measure of safety that the commercial door anchors do not. Good find, thanks.
p.1 #10 · p.1 #10 · Using Canon's 200-400mm zoom in a Landcruiser
Saw your post. Just what I was looking for before leaving for Florida. Bought one. Tried it. Works GREAT. Thanks for the post. 6 bucks for camera gear. Who knew Again thanks for posting
- 
Again thanks for posting