My Mast Photography Adventure with the Manfrotto 269HDBU Super Stand
I wrote about my trusty Manfrotto 269HDBU Super Stand Black almost a year ago. Since then, I’ve been on enough photo shoots to feel pretty confident putting my camera 7 meters high. Let me share a recent adventure with you!
A Sunny Day in Kluisbergen, Belgium
Yesterday, I found myself in Kluisbergen, Belgium. Kluisbergen is a beautiful municipality in the Belgian province of East Flanders, along the Scheldt River. You can check out more about this lovely place here.
I was driving on a lovely sunny day, enjoying the weather and looking forward to a fun photo shoot. This time, it was all about real estate photography, mast photography, and real estate video. It was a bit demanding, but thanks to the super-friendly local real estate agent and the homeowners, I spent hours working alone without any interruptions. Well, almost alone – one of my colleagues popped by to take more photos of the property with his drone due to some mistakes he made the day before.
The Joys and Challenges of Mast Photography
Despite this being called mast photography, it’s not quite that. A mast is a special monopod for photography, while my trusty companion is the Manfrotto 269HDBU – an impressive light stand. A mast typically weighs around 4kg, making it easy to carry around while strolling through the city. My Manfrotto, on the other hand, weighs a hefty 10kg! You wouldn’t want to lug it around on a casual city walk.
High Above with the Manfrotto 269HDBU
Setting up the Manfrotto 269HDBU Super Stand is always an adventure. The stand can extend up to 7,3 meters high, giving me a fantastic vantage point for my shots. In Kluisbergen, this height was perfect for capturing images of the real estate properties from a unique angle.
Mast Photography Techniques and Tips
Preparing for the Shoot
- Choosing the Right Location: Ensure the ground is stable and flat.
- Securing the Stand: Use sandbags or weights to keep the stand stable.
- Camera Settings: Set your camera for high-resolution shots to capture every detail.
Capturing the Perfect Shot
- Composition: Think about the best angles and perspectives.
- Lighting: Make sure the lighting is perfect for the time of day.
- Patience: Sometimes, you have to wait for the perfect moment.
My Experience in Kluisbergen
The photo shoot in Kluisbergen was a mix of fun and challenges. Working alone allowed me to focus deeply on getting the perfect shots. The friendly locals made the experience even more enjoyable. Despite the occasional interruption, the day was filled with new encounters and beautiful moments captured through my lens.
Mast photography with the Manfrotto 269HDBU Super Stand is both a rewarding and challenging experience. It offers a unique perspective that’s hard to achieve with traditional tripods or handheld shots. While my setup may not be as portable as a typical mast, it’s incredibly sturdy and reliable, making it perfect for those demanding shoots.
Next time you see an awe-inspiring high-angle shot, think about the preparation and equipment behind it. And if you ever find yourself in Kluisbergen, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of this charming place – maybe even with a camera in hand!
Check Out My Journey
Here’s a little video I took from my car on my way to Kluisbergen. Enjoy the ride with me and see the Belgian countryside!
Hope you enjoyed this little dive into the world of mast photography with the Manfrotto 269HDBU Super Stand. Stay tuned for more adventures and tips on my blog!