Filter and Monopod for Sigma 120-300 f2.8?

[C&C]

OK, as the title suggests, the nice man from UPS yesterday delivered a big shiny new lens (from Digital Rev), and as I know there are several members with the same lens (and other similar sized ones), I have 2 questions:

1. Do you have a protective UV filter on yours (pros and cons), and if so, which make (I've only found a Sigma 105mm one available so far)?

2. Whilst handholding this lens is possible, I think that a monopod is definitely going to be the way to go if using it for an extended period of time. Any recommendations on which model, and which head (do they even have a head) - as you can see I'm a bit in the dark on the monopod side of things.

Many thanks for any input.

Conrad.

[ThatPhilBrettGuy]

I've never had a filter on mine. To be honest I never use it without the hood and that stops anything getting to the front glass.

As for monopods I've no idea. I tend to use a cheap plastics tripod with a elastic band arounf the feet if I want some help

[MonkeyHanger]

Filter...hmm. 105mm filters aren't particularly common..or cheap. Personally i don't bother as the hood is plenty of protection even when the stones are flying on a Rally.

As for a monopod go for something like a Manfrotto 681. A head would depend on what you're shooting. I just screw my monopod straight into the screw on the tripod ring as i don't need a head.

[C&C]

Thanks guys,

So no filter seems to be the way ahead (unless anyone else has different input?) - in a way that's good as the Sigma UV one is £90 cheapest! That'll pay for the monopod then!

Thanks.

Conrad.

[sidaorb]

Mine came with the Sigma filter included so its fitted, agree with the monopod idea, use a manfrotto on mine occasionally, but mainly handheld.

Edited by sidaorb on Wednesday 30th April 13:16