Naturescape's Groundpod "skimmer II"

[raptorcaptor]

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.
http://raptorcaptor.smugmug.com/photos/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.

http://raptorcaptor.smugmug.com/photos/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!
http://raptorcaptor.smugmug.com/photos/348293373_WfisL-L.jpg

A couple of shots I've taken using this setup

http://raptorcaptor.smugmug.com/photos/348293363_8Y3vx-L.jpg

http://raptorcaptor.smugmug.com/photos/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

[Art Scott]

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?????

[raptorcaptor]

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!

[thorin]

Without any type of head, but with a spacer block, mine weighs 17.5 oz.

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?????