Ask Neil Blog post about Docz monopod support and table-top tripod – 3 Legged Thing

Ask Neil: A blog all about Docz, 3 Legged thing's monopod foot stabilser/ table-top tripod.

Docz is a tough, lightweight, and rugged monopod support that also acts as a mini or counter-top tripod and can be mounted to any camera, clamp, head or monopod using the 1/4"-20 screw thread or the 3/8"-16 threaded adapter.

The use of the dual threading offers a wealth of setup options which we'll cover in this article. The multi-functional Docz support can be used to give better stability to monopods or act as a standalone mini tripod if space is limited.

The height of the Docz support makes it ideal for low-level shooting which can be super useful for travel, nature, street, astrophotography or, when used with a wide-angle lens, to create as much field of vision possible. Docz is designed to support a load up to 20kg / 44lb.

What makes Docz stand out above the rest is the built-in ball pivot system, similar to standard tripod ball heads. The screw mount sits on top of the ball pivot which enables smooth movement of the camera or monopod leg. There is a friction dampening knob on the underside of Docz, that is used to adjust the friction of movement. Docz' ball pivot system can be locked upright to support the camera angle or monopod leg in place when perpendicular to the ground. This is done by screwing the knurled lock into the top position. For smooth movement with a monopod such as panning for action sports or fast-moving wildlife, the friction adjuster should be loosened (but not unscrewed completely), and the locking screw ring moved to the bottom position.

Important: Don't ever let go of the monopod when in use and always keep one hand on the camera until mounted correctly.

Let's Dive into the Docz Support:

Docz is created from strong metal alloys with an ABS covering and rubber pads on the base of each leg to grip the terrain and support the camera or monopod. The legs can counter-fold to pack away to a size small enough for transportation and Docz only weighs 531 g / 1.17 lb. This makes it easy to carry, quick to setup and use, and (dare we say) an essential part of any photographer's kit.

So, let's break down some of the physical specifications:

Height (in-use): 5 cm / 33.35"
Diameter (in-use): 5 cm / 11.6"
Length (counter-folded): 5 cm / 6.5"
Load Capacity: 20kg / 44lb
Weight: 531 g / 1.17"

Along with the Docz monopod support you'll find the included 1/4"-20 to 3/8"-16 threaded adapter, manual card, some awesome stickers, and the multi-functional carabiner Toolz with keyring, hex key, coin key, and bottle opener.

Serving Suggestions:

Here you'll find some setup suggestions of how to take full advantage of the capability of Docz to introduce or experiment within your work flow.

Direct to Camera: Using the 1/4"-20 thread you'll be able to mount any camera straight onto Docz for a low-level or table-top setup.
Docz with Clamp: The dual thread options mean that you'll also be able to attach any clamp with 1/4"-20 or 3/8"-16 threading to create a quick-release system for detaching the camera from the Docz support.
Docz with Head: The dual thread options also mean that you'll also be able to attach any tripod head with a 1/4"-20 or 3/8"-16 female thread to give better versatility to camera angles or adding a panning function if used with a head that enables panning on a single axis.
Docz with Monopod: The dual thread options mean that you'll also be able to attach any monopod leg with a 1/4"-20 or 3/8"-16 female thread that's flush with the base of the leg This adds extra stability and support to monopod use.