Originally Posted by Icebear ...No, If you want to use a camera in portrait mode on a monopod with a lens that doesn't have a rotating collar, use an L-bracket.

Not necessarily ... for me, anyway :)

Part of my (homemade) macro rig incorporates a L/P 'flipper' - based on the Newton Flash arm linkage.

This flipper can be removed from the rest of the macro rig and used on its own - on any other support device (got std 3/8 socket)

The lens axis stays in the same position relative to base in both L and P positions.

Only intended for use with macro gear upto 180mm (I wanted to keep lighting setup same for both options) - but its been used (in the past) in all manner of 'normal' shooting situations.

pp

edit - remembered this

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v4...MG_0089mod.jpg

This is the head to get for a monopod: link

If you ever think you will someday get a tripod w/ballhead, I would recommend that you get this version of the Manfrotto monopod tilthead by Kirk:

http://www.kirkphoto.com/Monopod-Heads.html

Essentially it is the same tilt head, but with an Arca Swiss adapter added. This allows you to keep your Arca Swiss style quick release foot on your camera, whether you use the tripod or monopod.

Edit: my bad, this is no longer the Monfrotto tilt head, it seems to be a new custom Kirk tilt head