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Naturescape's Groundpod "skimmer II"

raptorcaptorraptorcaptor Registered Users Posts: 3,968 Major grins
edited August 10, 2008 in Accessories
Some of you asked so I'll post some pics here of what the Skimmer II is.
It is made, and sold on Naturescapes website. Although I have seen it for sale on other sites too. Cost around $99.00.

The original Skimmer was made out of metal, whereas the Skimmer II is plastic.
348293530_smGM4-L.jpg

It is simply a frisbee shaped dish with a camera mount. And its purpose is to get your camera nice and low to the ground.
I use it with a Jobu Jr. gimbal head (with an L plate upgrade) I shoot mainly with a 500L F4 so this setup works fairly well.

348293669_37YFd-L.jpg

I have also experimented with using a ball head, and Wimberly's Sidekick.
I found that with the 500L the balance wasn't very good.
Probably fine for lighter lenses.

Here is a shot of me using it on the beach. And yes you do have to lie on your belly!
348293373_WfisL-L.jpg

A couple of shots I've taken using this setup

348293363_8Y3vx-L.jpg

348293796_CHSBM-L.jpg

If you really want to get low you could mount your lens directly on the Skimmer, and use it that way.
Naturescape also sells a riser, if it is too low for your setup.

http://www.naturescapes.net/store/product.php?productid=41&cat=19&bestseller
Glenn

My website | NANPA Member

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    Art ScottArt Scott Registered Users Posts: 8,959 Major grins
    edited August 9, 2008
    Very cool if your tripod doesn't get that low......or if you refrain from carrying a tripod a lot........how much does it weigh??

    Does the 500L come camoed or did you have to apply yourself?????
    "Genuine Fractals was, is and will always be the best solution for enlarging digital photos." ....Vincent Versace ... ... COPYRIGHT YOUR WORK ONLINE ... ... My Website

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    raptorcaptorraptorcaptor Registered Users Posts: 3,968 Major grins
    edited August 9, 2008
    Art Scott wrote:
    Very cool if your tripod doesn't get that low......or if you refrain from carrying a tripod a lot........how much does it weigh??

    Does the 500L come camoed or did you have to apply yourself?????

    I usually have both the tripod, and the skimmer. My tripod goes to a sitting position, but it is not as convenient as the skimmer when you need to move position without spooking your subject. It weighs much less than my tripod! :D
    I got the camo from Naturescape too, although B&H is carrying it now as well. Keeps that white paint from getting too dinged up!
    Glenn

    My website | NANPA Member
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    thorinthorin Registered Users Posts: 19 Big grins
    edited August 10, 2008
    How Much Does It Weigh?
    Without any type of head, but with a spacer block, mine weighs 17.5 oz.
    Art Scott wrote:
    Very cool if your tripod doesn't get that low......or if you refrain from carrying a tripod a lot........how much does it weigh??

    Does the 500L come camoed or did you have to apply yourself?????
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