As someone deeply involved in capturing life’s moments, especially during outdoor adventures or travels, I often struggled with camera positioning. Holding a camera directly limits perspective, and using a bulky tripod isn’t always practical or possible. Getting a wider view, capturing myself within the scenery, or achieving that unique elevated angle felt like a constant challenge. It was a problem that needed a solution, as missing out on these shots meant missing opportunities to truly tell the story of an experience. Finding a reliable way to extend my reach and perspective was crucial.
- 【EXTENDABLE AT 4 LENGTH】This selfie pole can be detachable and extendable at 4 length, 25cm/9.8inch, 56cm/22inch, 86cm/33.8inch, and the longest 116cm/47inch (read the clockwise and...
- 【LIGHTWIGHT AND COMPACT】 Net weight only 3.5oz/100g, portable,extendable and compact enough to carry in a purse, backpack, or slip in your back pocket. The best ideal sport selfie pole for...
- 【WATERPROOF & COMFORTABLE MATERIAL】The selfie pole made of carbon fiber material which combines strength and toughness, makes it waterproof and rustproof, allows it to use in rain, snow and...
Key Considerations Before Purchasing an Extendable Camera Pole
If you’re grappling with similar filming limitations – feeling too close to the action, unable to get your camera high enough, or wanting to appear in your shots without holding the camera at arm’s length – an extendable camera pole is likely on your radar. These tools bridge the gap between handheld filming and static tripod shots, offering dynamic perspectives for action cameras, 360 cameras (where they can become ‘invisible’), and compact digital cameras.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who frequently uses action cameras (GoPro, Insta360, DJI Osmo Action) for vlogging, sports, travel, or creative content creation. They value portability, versatility, and the ability to capture unique angles.
However, not everyone needs a dedicated extendable selfie stick. If you only use your phone for selfies or need a rock-solid base for long exposure shots, a basic phone selfie stick or a heavy-duty tripod would be more appropriate. A cheap, flimsy pole could easily damage valuable equipment, so durability and stability are key.
Before buying, consider these factors:
* Maximum and Minimum Lengths: How much reach do you need, and how compact does it need to fold for transport?
* Material: Is it sturdy and lightweight? Carbon fiber is popular for its strength-to-weight ratio.
* Weight Capacity & Compatibility: Can it safely hold your specific camera? Does it require adapters?
* Locking Mechanism: How do the sections extend and lock? Is it secure and easy to use?
* Durability and Weather Resistance: Will it hold up to the elements if you plan to use it outdoors or near water?
* Additional Features: Does it have a tripod mount thread at the bottom?
Thinking through these points helps narrow down options and ensures you get a pole suited to your needs and camera gear.
- ★The monopod and tripod is made of high-quality aluminum alloy, which is strong and durable enough to keep the monopod stable.Maximum load: 6kg / 13lbs;
- SOLID CONSTRUCTION: Kit includes a carbon fiber camera monopod and a 3-leg tripod base, durable and solid; Note: Camera is NOT Included.Note: When the camera is mounted on a monopod, you need to hold...
- koolehaoda K-266, with its strong structure, the load capacity is up to 10kg / 22lbs. This makes it not only a monopod, but a hiking stick for outdoor photographers.
An Overview of the TELESIN TE-MNP-117
The TELESIN TE-MNP-117 Carbon Fiber Selfie Pole presents itself as a lightweight, extendable solution specifically designed for action cameras like Insta360 and GoPro (though GoPro requires an adapter), as well as DJI Osmo Action and other compact digital cameras. Its main promise is to provide extended reach and stability for capturing unique perspectives, especially useful for creating the ‘invisible selfie stick’ effect with 360 cameras or simply getting your camera out of your direct field of view. When you purchase it, you typically receive the pole itself. Compared to some basic aluminum poles, the use of carbon fiber is highlighted as a premium feature. While it doesn’t have the built-in tripod legs of some models, it does offer a standard tripod screw port at the base for added versatility. This particular carbon fiber monopod is designed for users who need portability and reach without the bulk of a full tripod.
Here’s a quick look at its potential upsides and downsides:
Pros:
* Extremely lightweight and compact when folded.
* Extendable to a useful 116cm (approximately 45 inches).
* Carbon fiber construction offers good strength and weather resistance.
* Waterproof and rustproof design is great for outdoor use.
* Includes a standard 1/4″ tripod screw port at the base.
Cons:
* Some users have reported issues with the locking mechanism feeling insecure or breaking.
* Perception of overall build quality being somewhat cheap despite the carbon fiber material.
* Actual maximum length might be slightly less than the advertised 47 inches.
* GoPro users need a separate adapter (not included).
Exploring the Capabilities and Advantages
Having spent considerable time using the TELESIN TE-MNP-117, I’ve come to understand its strengths and weaknesses through practical application. Here’s a deeper dive into its features and the real-world benefits they offer:
Versatile Extendable Length
One of the most frequently used features of this selfie stick for Insta360 (and other cameras) is its extendability. It telescopes out from a very compact 25cm (about 9.8 inches) to its full length of 116cm (approximately 45 inches, though some note it’s slightly less than the stated 47 inches). The pole is designed to extend and lock at four distinct lengths: 25cm, 56cm, 86cm, and 116cm. The extension mechanism involves twisting the sections clockwise to lock and counterclockwise to unlock.
In practice, this range is incredibly useful. The shortest length is perfect for standard handheld shots or when you need minimal extension. The intermediate lengths are great for slightly wider perspectives or keeping the pole itself out of frame when using a 360 camera for walking or stationary shots. The full 116cm extension unlocks significant creative potential. You can use it to get elevated shots, reach over crowds, or create dramatic third-person views that make it look like someone else is filming you. For 360 camera users, this extended length is key to achieving the ‘invisible’ pole effect, placing the camera far enough away from the body that the stitching software can effectively remove the pole from the final image.
However, the twist-lock mechanism has been a point of concern for some users. While generally secure when properly tightened, there’s a perceived fragility, and over-tightening could potentially cause issues. It’s crucial to ensure each section is firmly locked before trusting it with your camera, especially at full extension. The benefit of having these distinct lengths is the adaptability it provides for different scenarios, making it a versatile tool for various filming needs.
Remarkably Lightweight and Portable Design
Weighing in at a mere 0.22 pounds (or about 100 grams), the TELESIN carbon fiber pole is genuinely lightweight. When fully collapsed to 25cm, it’s incredibly compact – small enough to slip into a small bag, backpack pocket, or even a large jacket pocket. This aspect is where the TELESIN selfie stick truly shines for active users.
The benefit of this low weight cannot be overstated, particularly during long filming sessions, hikes, or when travelling light. Carrying around heavy camera gear plus accessories can become cumbersome quickly. The lightness of this pole means it adds minimal burden. You can carry it all day without fatigue. Its portability makes it an ideal companion for sports like snowboarding, skiing, surfing, or even just walking around a city. You’re much more likely to bring it along and actually use it if it’s easy to carry. This feature directly encourages more dynamic and varied filming, as the tool is never an obstacle to mobility.
Carbon Fiber Construction: Strength Meets Weather Resistance
The use of carbon fiber material is a key selling point for the TELESIN TE-MNP-117. Carbon fiber is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to corrosion. The product description highlights that this makes the pole waterproof and rustproof.
The practical benefit here is significant for anyone who uses their action camera in diverse environments. Whether you’re caught in the rain, filming in snowy conditions, or capturing footage during water sports like surfing or kayaking, this pole is designed to handle it. Unlike metal poles that can rust or corrode when exposed to moisture, the carbon fiber construction provides peace of mind that the pole won’t degrade from water exposure. This durability against the elements extends the usability of the extendable monopod to situations where many other poles would be unsuitable, allowing you to capture footage in challenging or wet conditions without worrying about damaging your equipment support. While some user reviews mention a “rough” feel or perceived cheapness, the inherent properties of carbon fiber do provide this crucial weather resistance benefit.
Broad Device Compatibility
The TELESIN TE-MNP-117 boasts compatibility with a range of devices, including Insta360 cameras (like the X3, X4, One R, One X, Go 2), GoPro models (Hero 5 through 13, although an adapter is required), DJI Osmo Action, and various digital compact cameras. This is achieved through a standard mounting screw at the top.
For users who own multiple action cameras or switch between different brands, this broad compatibility is a major advantage. Instead of needing different poles for different cameras, this single carbon fiber selfie pole can serve as a universal mounting point (with the necessary adapters for certain brands). This saves money and reduces the amount of gear you need to carry. It makes the pole a versatile tool in a videographer’s kit, ready to support various cameras depending on the shooting requirements. The note about requiring an adapter for GoPro is important; make sure you have one if that’s your primary camera.
Integrated 1/4″ Tripod Screw Port
At the very bottom of the pole, there’s a standard 1/4″ tripod screw port. While the pole itself doesn’t have built-in legs to function as a standalone tripod, this port allows you to attach the TELESIN monopod to any standard tripod or base with a 1/4″ screw.
The benefit here is increased stability and even greater reach or height. If you need a stable, static shot but want the camera positioned higher than a standard tripod allows, you can mount this extendable pole onto the tripod. This is useful for interviews, time-lapses, or getting a higher vantage point without using ladders or elevated platforms. It adds another layer of versatility, allowing the pole to be used in conjunction with other support systems for more complex shooting setups.
Insights from Other Users
Having explored various online forums and retail sites, I’ve seen that the TELESIN TE-MNP-117 Carbon Fiber Selfie Pole garners a range of opinions. Many users appreciate its incredibly lightweight nature and the utility of the various extension lengths, particularly for achieving the desired effects with 360 cameras. However, there are recurring comments regarding the durability and perceived quality of the locking mechanism and overall build. Some users have unfortunately experienced the stick breaking relatively quickly, sometimes even upon first use, which understandably leads to significant disappointment and concern about the safety of their expensive cameras. There are also mentions that the actual length might not quite hit the advertised maximum. Despite these concerns, some find it sturdy enough for careful use and value its portability.
Summing Up the Experience
Revisiting the initial problem of getting dynamic and elevated camera angles without being weighed down, the TELESIN TE-MNP-117 offers a potential solution. Capturing these perspectives is essential for creating engaging content and fully documenting experiences, and failing to do so means limiting your creative output.
This carbon fiber extendable pole stands out due to its exceptional lightness, making it effortless to carry on any adventure. Its carbon fiber construction promises weather resistance for use in various conditions, and the useful range of extension lengths provides the versatility needed for different shots, including the coveted ‘invisible’ effect for 360 cameras. While acknowledging the potential concerns raised by some users regarding build quality and the locking mechanism, its core benefits of portability and reach make it a compelling option for action camera enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a lightweight way to expand your camera’s perspective, Click here to check it out!
Last update on 2025-07-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API