Please recommend a boom arm

Leftyplayer · Jul 29, 2012

I'm in search of a boom arm (and necessary accessories) to use in product photography. I would mostly be using a Canon 430EX or 580EX II with a Gamilight Square 43 on it or a lightweight LED video light. I haven't used a boom arm before, so not sure what to look for. I have the Manfrotto 1005BAC 107" Ranker that I'd like to use the arm with if possible, but am willing to get a new stand if it's required for some reason. Do I need to search for specific compatibility between the arm and the stand, or do all arms fit all stands? In addition to the arm itself, what other pieces/ accessories would I need to put the whole thing together? Budget is under $200.

Thanks for any possible suggestions.

Buckster · Jul 29, 2012

I've got two of these, and they work great: Amazon.com: ePhoto Boom Stand Extension 6 ft Arm with Grip Head New By ephoto INC boomarm/grip: Camera & Photo They're really strong. I've hung lights with softboxes off them, no problem.

You'll need a counterweight. Sandbags filled with pea gravel are cheap and easy to deal with.

table1349 · Jul 29, 2012

These are convenient and do double duty. Interfit Boom Arm Stand COR754 B&H Photo Video
I have a couple for carrying around. Comes with clips to hold reflectors as well as lighting.

For weights I like simple ankle weights. http://www.amazon.com/Valeo-10-Pound-Adjustable-Ankle-Weights/dp/B0007IS70U/ref=pd_sim_sg_1

You can strap them around the center post or around legs, where ever you need them.

Big Mike · Jul 30, 2012

I have two boom arm stands. The first one I bought, I think is similar to the Interfit one linked above. It worked, but when I had a light on it, at any sort of distance, it felt very flimsy....I didn't like it.

The one I use now, is a Manfrotto (not sure the model) but it's much more heavy duty. Keep in mind that the further out from the stand you need the light, the more stress on the arm and the sturdier the whole thing needs to be. Although, I was using it for shooting people, for product photography, safety isn't as much of a concern.

If your shooting area is consistent and not too large, I'd recommend some sort of articulating arm like on a dentist light. Either on a stand or wall mounted. Something that is very easy to manipulate and tweak just by moving it. With the typical boom stands above, it's a pain to adjust them.

Big Mike · Jul 30, 2012

Couldn't find a link at first...maybe something along these lines...
Studio Arms & Accessories | B&H Photo Video

table1349 · Jul 30, 2012

Big Mike said:
I have two boom arm stands. The first one I bought, I think is similar to the Interfit one linked above. It worked, but when I had a light on it, at any sort of distance, it felt very flimsy....I didn't like it.

The one I use now, is a Manfrotto (not sure the model) but it's much more heavy duty. Keep in mind that the further out from the stand you need the light, the more stress on the arm and the sturdier the whole thing needs to be. Although, I was using it for shooting people, for product photography, safety isn't as much of a concern.

If your shooting area is consistent and not too large, I'd recommend some sort of articulating arm like on a dentist light. Either on a stand or wall mounted. Something that is very easy to manipulate and tweak just by moving it. With the typical boom stands above, it's a pain to adjust them.

I would agree that the Interfit is not for heavy lighting and as with any arm needs a counter weight. I have no issues with it though for a 580 and small soft box.

cgipson1 · Jul 30, 2012

I have one of these... it actually stores the boom inside the stand. It is fairly compact, and very stable. If it would suit your needs, you might consider it.... Flashpoint Boom Stand and Carrying Bag FPBBSK

kundalini · Jul 30, 2012

I have this stand and boom arm. ALZO Digital Studio Boom It has a built-in 5lb counterweight on one end. I have no worries to put a monolight on the end, but I add more counterweight, make sure the boom arm is lined up with one of the light stands' leg and do not use large (heavy) modifiers in this configuration.

I also have a couple of reflector arms (Photoflex and Interfit I think) that I will mount a speedlight/modifier on.

Big Mike · Jul 30, 2012

gryphonslair99 said:
Big Mike said:

I have two boom arm stands. The first one I bought, I think is similar to the Interfit one linked above. It worked, but when I had a light on it, at any sort of distance, it felt very flimsy....I didn't like it.

The one I use now, is a Manfrotto (not sure the model) but it's much more heavy duty. Keep in mind that the further out from the stand you need the light, the more stress on the arm and the sturdier the whole thing needs to be. Although, I was using it for shooting people, for product photography, safety isn't as much of a concern.

If your shooting area is consistent and not too large, I'd recommend some sort of articulating arm like on a dentist light. Either on a stand or wall mounted. Something that is very easy to manipulate and tweak just by moving it. With the typical boom stands above, it's a pain to adjust them.

Click to expand...

I would agree that the Interfit is not for heavy lighting and as with any arm needs a counter weight. I have no issues with it though for a 580 and small soft box.

I'm sure it would hold the weight, I put an alien bee on my similar boom. But even a 580 will 'bounce' if you have it >6' out. Not an issue if you're careful, but it still makes me nervous.