Wheelchair friendly tripods?

Is there such a thing as a tripod that works better for a wheelchair bound user? Due to numerous healht problems I will be in a wheelchair for life. I have gotten back into photography. So far, I have been shooting hand-held and with a monopod when needed. I can stand for very brief periods, but would prefer seated. Perhaps, some sort of a boom/gimbal set-up? Ideas? Monopod is ok, but it is a pain to not be able to stand it up when I need to move around. Plus I have to recompose every time. Currently I mainly shoot in my backyard but I would like to get back to shooting portraits on a limited basis.

 

Robert

No personal experience with these, but a few options

tripod for wheelchair - Google Search

Thanks for your reply. I had looked at some options on-line, but I had been hoping for some some “out of the box” solutions. The standard ‘google’ items are tripod with a boom-type arm or a ‘magic arm’ that clamps to the chair, Of the two, I am favoring the boom set-up. Anyone have experience with that set-up? I shoot with a D3 Nikon so the weight can be a factor. Add a big lens and weight would certainly be problematic. I suppose that is why sandbags are useful.

 

Robert

Does your wheelchair have a tube to which you cam mount a clamp? If so, you may want to look at this--actually two of them plus a monopod. You mount one clamp on your wheelchair arm tube, the second clamp on the first clamp and the monopod onto the second clamp.

 

It's the same set up used by some photogs on safari where they mount one clamp on the vehicle. I have the same set up mounted on a walker/rollator which I use on occasion. I'll post a photo when I get a chance.

Actually, the link Sandy posted shows a Manfrotto Super Clamp.

i dont think it would be difficult as a DIY project.

 

sandys search does show some very nice solutions though.

I'm a clueless pedestrian. - I assume you need some three legged "camping table", to cart into the field? i.e. a wooden contraption that allows you to sit in the middle of your tripod legs. I guess a table isn't really needed; a sufficiently sized "T" or "Y" below your center column with tripod legs at it's outer points should be enough? The entire thing could also support a table top tripod. Maybe a painters' easel could donate legs and a few more parts? - I'd also try to figure out an option to wheel the thing (especially the table high bottom part) around in it's ready position, with your hands freed. - Chair attached arms (inspired by garbage trucks') holding it 2-3" above the ground?

its too bad we cant see locations with the avi. if you were local, id help you adapt something.

I have considered some type of heavy duty clamp system, but I honestly don’t think it will work very well with my chair. There is no “clampable” spot on the front that would work.It is an electric wheelchair so I have to keep the control panel clear. If it is possible it would be good for fast operation.

 

I am looking at a tripod that has a 90 degree joint on the center post. There would be the possibility of tipping, but sandbags should prevent that. I think this would be the best solution for my particular needs.