1420 VAL Spigot & Lowepro Pro Roller x200

Back in October 2012 I blogged about one of the ways I utilise the Lowepro Pro Roller x200 rolling camera case http://ianpack.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/lowepro-pro-roller-x200.html

I'm still using the bag on location even though the current content has altered.

Over the last few weeks I've been exploring the multitude of uses for the 1420 VAL Spigot which I originally designed to convert a painters pole into a cost effective handheld lighting boom.

Buy your 1420 VAL Spigot online

Not everyone chooses to work with an assistant or is lucky enough to know a decent VAL (Voice Activated Light stand). Many of the additional applications and uses described elsewhere in this blog show the versatility of a singular lightweight and compact photography lighting accessory, namely the 1420 VAL Spigot.

Enter the Lowepro Pro Roller x200




When the people at Lowepro designed the Pro Roller x200 someone thought to put a ¼" 20 UNC adaptor on the drag handle to take lighting accessories. This is fine if you want a 3 foot light stand, which is why I've worked out how to use your 1420 VAL Spigot boom pole when assistance isn't too hand.

There are two options:


Keep the bag upright and extend the drag handle. To the extended handle attach your boom pole with 1420 VAL Spigot attached. In this case I've attached the pole with adjustable elastic bungees. You could use electrical tape or even gaffer tape. Bungees are quick, efficient, don't leave a sticky adhesive residue and are reusable.

The main problem with this method is the Pro Roller x200 is inherently unstable when in this position, which is why I prefer the following method.


Put the bag onto it's work support strut. Put your pole tipped with the 1420 VAL Spigot through the top carry handle loop. Attach the end of your pole to the strut by a secure method.


I use a looped length of Para Cord and a couple of key chain karabiner clips. This method creates what is in effect a cantilever allowing a stable base for your pole. I've extended my pole to 3m/10' aided by this method. It's also a reason I favour the Harris 3 Section 10 foot Extension Pole as the grip at the end has a hole which is ideal for attaching a clip by means of more Para Cord.


A snap of Monty, for no reason other than he's a cute dog:)


Elinchrom flash is available from The Flash Centre. Email Simon Burfoot or call Brian Collier at the Birmingham branch.

The 1420 VAL Spigot is available from selected retailers in the UK and direct from me for US or UK customers.

If you're serious about your photographic lighting then maybe The LIGHT Side Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thelightsidegroup/ will interest you. It's about all things to do with light and lighting. TLS is a closed group so someone will need to add you or you'll need to send a request to be added. It's a friendly group, with a degree of humour and some great photographers willing to share and contribute.




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