Joby Gorillapod Focus w/ Ballhead x

Joby Gorillapod Focus w/ Ballhead x
Keith Patankar
Hunts Photo & Video

Sometimes you want a tool that is versatile and flexible. Especially when traveling, photographers are always looking for to lighten their load. Instead of carrying a full tripod that is heavy and bulky the Joby Gorillapod Focus just may be the perfect tool to take with you. But don’t expect the Gorillapod to replace your tripod. Instead it is a flexible support system that can be used for support in certain situations. Unlike a straight table top tripod the Gorillapod allows you to bend the legs in different angles. This allows you to place your Gorillapod on uneven surfaces. You can place it on a rocky hillside, wrap it around a tree branch or railing, or just lay it flat on the ground.

The Joby Gorillapod Focus supports up to 11lbs; which is sturdy enough to hold a DSLR with zoom lens. The Gorillapod measures under fifteen inches and weighs just over a pound and a half with the heady duty Ballhead X attached. The unique difference between the Gorillapod and a traditional tripod or table stand are the ball joint legs that are chained together and allow you to twist and turn each individual leg in any direction you desire. I was able to take this out and attach it to a railing, wrap it around a steady tree branch and position it on a rocky surface. The Ballhead X is very strong and is easily adjustable. It has a quick release plate with a standard ¼” thread to mount to the base of your camera. The bottom of each leg is equipt with rubberized seals that prevent the Gorillapod from sliding on smooth surfaces. It would be nice to see retractable spikes in future models to anchor into loose gravel surfaces. Overall the design and finish of the Gorillapod Focus is solid and does not feel like it will easily break.

So if your off on a hike or taking a trip that your will not need a full tripod the Gorillapod Focus with Ballhead X should be considered as a travel companion. It can’t and won’t replace your full size tripod, but adds another alternative in support when you need it in a pinch. I have focused on the larger of the Gorillapods in this article, but there are many flavors available to every kind of photographer out there. Joby makes Gorillapods for smaller cameras from point and shoots to smaller mirrorless cameras and even has options for your iphone. They have Gorilladpods with magnetic feet to snap onto magnetic surfaces. With all these choices you have support for any device to choose to capture your world.

Keith Patankar works in outside sales, marketing and specialty market at Hunts Photo & Video in Melrose MA. Please feel free to contact Keith directly at 781.462.2340 with any related questions.