How to - Create an iPhone Tripod Mount

Earlier I promised some amateur photography DIY posts, and here ya go. Since I got my iPhone, I wanted to put that sexy camera to use. To do that, I really needed to stabilize the camera on a tripod. This would allow me to get steadier shots, time-lapse videos, etc. It won't get me any where close to Simon Carter's level of photography work, but it's a cheap start.

I found a few commercial mounts like the glif or this universal mount. However, I wasn't satisfied with those options. I didn't like that the glif required a "naked" iPhone, and the universal mount was made of flimsy plastic (which some reviewers say breaks very easily).

So, I decided to create my own tripod mount with some materials I found around my house and a quick trip to Home Depot. I went through a few designs before landing on the one shown in the video above. The most expensive piece was the 1/4" connecting cap nuts at almost 5 dollars for a 4 pack. If you wanted to substitute it for a bolt and some nuts, I think that could work as well, but would require some more work to get it attached as well as the connecting cap nut. I won't do a written DIY on this one because the video should be simple enough to follow. If you have any questions, just ask in the comments below.

Check out this time-lapse video I did using this mount and my UltraPod II tripod and some magnetic wide-angle iPhone lenses. The video shows Cameron and Phil cutting out an ampersand to be used for engagement photos.

More Videos and DIY to come. Check out our YouTube channel for more content.

-Jonathan

How to - Climbing Photography

I came across this video last night despite it being two years old. I have always had a fascination with photography and especially extreme sports photography. Seeing someone skiing backwards down a half pipe during the X Games with a camera strapped to their hand is extreme in its own right.

This video provides a little insight into how a photographer sets up and shoots on a big wall climb. The rigging, the preparation, and the equipment, certainly seems more complex and difficult than that of the actual climber! For once I'm glad the camera was turned around, so we have a glimpse into the work that goes into these amazing climbing videos. If you would like to see the result of the photographer's (Simon Carter) work, see the video below.

I myself enjoy photography, and plan to write about some amateur photo DIY projects in the future. However, I can assure you they won't be half as extreme as this. Let us know in the comments if you have any experience shooting good climbing photography. Have you tried using a GoPro or Contour camera? What about photography would you like to learn more about?

-Jonathan

I don't take any credit for either video. Check out nikonaustralia on YouTube for more.