The Joby Gorillapod Focus is a flexible-jointed tripod that can be used traditionally or wrapped around objects, and is the biggest, strongest version yet. Each leg of the Joby Gorillapod Focus features eight aluminium ball-and-socket joints which can be twisted into just about any shape, and there’s a rubber ring around each plus rubber-coated feet to help it grip.
The Joby Gorillapod Focus offers a reversible 3/8 or 1/4in screw thread on top for mounting a pro tripod head, or your D-SLR direct, and though it weighs in at just 500g, it’s really sturdy, and takes quite a bit of force to bend it into shape.
As a tabletop tripod, it works fine, but it really comes into its own with more awkward set-ups when you need to twist and bend the legs into shape. The only real downside of this well-built unit is the cost – with a street price of around £90, it’s very expensive, and most will find a traditional tripod a more useful buy.
If you’ve already got a traditional tripod, though, and need something light and compact for awkward shots, then the Gorillapod Focus could be right up your street. It’s strong enough to hold a mid-sized D-SLR (it’ll support up to 5kg in weight) and can turn lots of solid items like posts, railings and tree branches into potential camera supports. Very pricey, but handy for travel use where light weight and low bulk are critical.
www.intro2020.co.uk