
Many believe that the only way to get a truly  sharp image is to use a monopod (aka unipod). Unfortunately this is not true  for everyone.  Here are the pros and cons of using a monopod.
 Cons: Monopods are fantastic but they add more  weight to your already heavy camera bag. Unlike using a tripod, there is a much  steeper learning curve with a monopod. It will take time to learn how to  balance and best take advantage of a monopod. It's not a tripod and you still  can't do long exposures with it. In other words it does not replace a tripod  when it comes to stability.
 Pros: It can often add stability especially if  you are shooting a long lens or slightly long exposures. It can take the weight  off your shoulders and away from your hands. When you are using a monopod you  no longer bear the weight of the monopod on your shoulders or in your hands,  it's actually resting on the ground. In between photographs you can lean the  camera and monopod against your body or against a wall and reduce the stress on  your back. All of this means that you will be able to extend your shooting day.