Introduction: Under $2 Telephoto Lens Tripod Mount
I purchased an after-market Telephoto lens for my DSLR. The problem with it was it did not include a tripod mount. The lens is so long that even on my tripod there was too much bounce at the end of the lens that most photos ended up with motion blur. I needed a tripod mount to balance the lens and camera. If you already have epoxy this will cost less that $2. If not it's closer to $5. :)
Step 1: Mix Epoxy
Epoxy uses two chemicals once combined they form a strong bond. This epoxy will hold 1500 pounds once it cures which should be more than enough for the stress that will be placed on it. You only need a small amount I used one drop of each chemical.
Step 2: Mounting the T-nut
Apply the epoxy around the hole in the bottom of the Conduit hanger and the along the surface of the T-nut. Wait 15 minutes. I used mini vice grips to keep constant pressure until secure. Mix another small batch of epoxy and apply along the top of the bolt. With this epoxy it needs 1 hour to cure.
Step 3: Mounting the Lens
Remove the bolt that comes with the conduit hanger. Pull open slightly to fit around the lens body. Once around the body tighten the screw and bolt until secure. You may want to do this with your camera attached so you ensure that the base is at the bottom.
Step 4: Go Out and Take Pictures
Now the lens can be mounted towards the center of balance. Now that the lens and camera is balanced there are much less motion blur.
***Updated with better Full Moon picture taken with the same equipment 1/9/12
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4 Comments
8 years ago on Introduction
A couple of days ago I ordered a 600mm Minolta legacy telephoto to use with my e-510 camera. It'll arrive in 3 or 4 days, and I'm eager to try it out. I'd been wondering how long I'd have to wait after it arrived to get it properly mounted: measuring, ordering a mounting yoke, waiting for delivery. Now I see I can have it ready to shoot that same day! Thanks Speezer!!
13 years ago on Introduction
It's a good job for the lens. I'd be a bit worried about the camera being supported on the lens-mount alone though, but I don't know this kit - could you comment on that?
L
Reply 13 years ago on Introduction
The lens weighs much more than the camera body. Using this lens while mounted on the camera's tripod mount put a great strain on the lens mount, so by moving the mount towards the center of gravity it has taken most of the stress off of the lens mount. The D-SLR is I have Olympus e-500. Olympus as a few telephoto lenses that include there own Tripod mounts. So the I'm comfortable with the camera supporting it's own weight. Here is a link to one example of a lens with the mount.
http://www.olympusamerica.com/cpg_section/product.asp?product=1328
BTW this is my first instructable, thank you for the comment and question.
Reply 13 years ago on Introduction
These things are designed to hold heavy lenses without support I guess, thanks.
L