Mobile phones and gadgets

Mobile phones and gadgets

» How to use a selfie stick - secrets and tips for beginners. We assemble a monopod with our own hands What is a selfie stick

How to use a selfie stick - secrets and tips for beginners. We assemble a monopod with our own hands What is a selfie stick

Using a selfie stick seems simple, but in some cases it takes a lot of effort (if it wasn't, you wouldn't be reading this article).

So, what we want to tell you about in our article:

  • Full user manual for selfie stick (covering all kinds of selfie sticks)
  • Problems when using with a selfie stick and ways and means to solve them
  • Tips on how to take a beautiful selfie

It can be quite difficult to understand the instructions on the box (the one that came with your selfie stick) because many of the instructions are in English, and not only because of the language, you may not have had any selfie stick instructions at all. Or the instruction was not even written in English, but in Chinese (most selfie sticks produced in Asian countries (mainly in China)).

Note: Realizing that not everyone can easily master the art of using selfie sticks, we decided to write this informative post to make it easier for you to understand. We have tried to cover as many aspects of this craft as possible.

How to attach a phone or camera to a selfie stick?

Basically there are two types of devices that we use with a selfie stick - these are smartphones/phones and various cameras.

Cameras.

On most selfie sticks (monopods) there should be a screw at the top of the stick you mount the camera on. In case the device was already attached to the phone/camera holder when you received it, then try unscrewing the phone holder from selfie sticks(usually done by turning counterclockwise).

Note: If you cannot remove the phone holder from the stick, then most likely your selfie stick is not designed for cameras. Also, when connecting the camera to the stick, make sure the holder fits the camera (sometimes, the screw area on the stick is only compatible with the phone, not the camera).

If you do want to try installing a camera instead of a phone, then make sure it fits the size (your camera should be small and thin). But we do not recommend doing this.

Note: If you want use camera instead of phone, before buying you should check carefully selfie stick specification(whether it is compatible with cameras).

Phones.

You must attach your phone to the retractable phone holder that comes with the selfie stick. In case you didn't know, all phone holders (despite the design) can expand in size to accommodate different shapes and sizes of phones. We will talk about the two main types of phone holders (many people use these two types, unless of course you use selfie stick from GoPro).

First view: You must fit the phone holder horizontally until your phone fits into the holder (make sure the holder fits at least 25% placement area on the size of your phone). Then, just adjust the holder vertically until your phone fits in it.

Now you can secure your phone with the special orange clip, try to do it as gently as possible (although your phone won't be damaged or scratched even if you press a little harder, because the soft mat will soften the friction).

Second view: You need to spread the holder, and then install the phone between the bottom and top of the holder. Gently lower the protruding part and the spring mechanism will firmly tighten both parts of the phone (bottom and top).

Note: For both types of phone holders, you will need to tighten the holder screw to keep your phone from unscrewing. selfie sticks along with the holder.

Note: As it turns out, most of the selfie sticks (about 75%) available to us in stores are actually not compatible with large and heavy smartphones, although manufacturers claim otherwise.

What do we mean by "not compatible"? Basically, this happens when your stick cannot support the weight of your smartphone/phone or camera at its maximum length and tilts a little (and sometimes a lot). This is dangerous because the stick can simply break and you can part with your phone or camera. In addition, you can simply break or scratch your item.

Most likely you also had problems from the series " Selfie stick not connecting via bluetooth to phone or you just can't get the selfie stick to work properly. Read on to find out what needs to be done to fix the problem:

Download camera app for selfie stick

You will need to download the camera app, no matter which kind of selfie stick you are using. There are a lot of camera apps on the selfie stick, but we recommend Appendix Camera 360.

Why Camera 360?

First: It has a timer function which is essential when you use selfie stick without bluetooth connection.

Second: Some selfie sticks compatible with phones only using the built-in camera app of famous phone models such as iPhone, Samsung and LG. For other phone models, you need Appendix Camera 360 to Bluetooth function is working.

Thirdly: Camera 360 has various photo editing features to improve your selfie photo.

How to start taking selfies?

As mentioned above, there three types of selfie sticks.

Selfie stick without Bluetooth function

  1. Mount your phone or camera on a selfie stick
  2. Adjust the angle of the device in use, and then tighten the fixing screw.
  3. Extend the stick to the desired length
  4. Set a timer (approximately 5 seconds using the dedicated app)
  5. Smile and get ready take a selfie.

Selfie stick with Bluetooth function (with remote control)

Before you start taking selfies, you need to make sure that the Bluetooth remote is working. Check the remote control charge or insert new batteries. Then, sync your phone or camera using Bluetooth in the following way:

  1. Turn on the Bluetooth remote.
  2. Try looking for the Bluetooth name (usually listed in selfie stick instructions).
  3. If you can't find the Bluetooth device name in your phone's search area, try turning off your phone and Bluetooth remote and waiting five minutes.
  4. Then turn it back on and try to sync them again.
  5. If you are still unable to do this, then both devices are not compatible.
  6. Once connected, open the camera app on your phone and press the button on the Bluetooth remote with the camera icon.
  7. You should now be able to take a photo..
  8. If you are still unable to take photos, although both devices are connected and find each other then try to download and install the application Camera 360.

Once you have verified that the Bluetooth remote is working, you can start taking photos by following the steps in the " selfie stick without Bluetooth function', except you don't need to use the timer, you just need to press the button on the bluetooth remote.

Selfie stick with built-in Bluetooth

There are two main types embedded Bluetooth systems. The first type uses Bluetooth synchronization, everything is the same as in the procedure that we described above ( Selfie stick with Bluetooth remote control), except that the shooting button is on the selfie stick.

Second type does not use bluetooth sync. Instead, there is a wire that needs to be inserted into the earpiece hole. This method is much more efficient than Bluetooth synchronization, because. you immediately avoid the problem of synchronizing and connecting two devices, which often happens.

The main problems when using a selfie stick and how to avoid them.

1) Selfie stick bends. This is a common scenario when you extend the stick to its maximum length and use a heavy phone like the iPhone 6+ to shoot. In this case, you either need to find a better quality selfie stick (more than $30), or just don't extend the stick to its maximum length. This should fix the issue.

2) Bluetooth battery dead. Usually, selfie sticks with Bluetooth remotes or with built-in Bluetooth that run on batteries can be used longer, unlike selfie sticks that are rechargeable (i.e. with built-in batteries). So don't forget to bring an extra power supply with you and you'll be fine.

3) Camera or phone not syncing with the stick. I found out that if we turn off the phone and Bluetooth remote for 5 minutes and then turn them on, this can allow us to sync the devices. It's not 100% guaranteed, but definitely worth a try.

4) The stick does not extend smoothly. I see a lot of people complaining that their selfie sticks are hard to retract. Seriously, this is not a big problem to pay much attention to. Just lubricate the stick and you will see real progress.

Is your selfie stick already working?

If you use our tips, then it should definitely work (with the exception of only GoPro sticks). But if yours still does not work, then most likely something is wrong with it. Either you don't know enough about the product or the product doesn't work as it should.

If you are planning buy another selfie stick to replace the old one, you must carefully consider each specific product, so that you do not misunderstand your expectations. As the saying goes, why make a mistake when you can avoid it?

Where to buy a selfie stick?

Unfortunately there is no place where you can get 100% perfect selfie stick. But there is an opportunity to search in large online stores, as there are often discounts on selfie sticks, or if you are not chasing a new product, you can search for ads for the sale of selfie sticks on popular message boards and buy a used monopod.

Almost every modern person takes a selfie, it has already become a habit. But sometimes you really want to show more than just your face - for example, a beautiful view that opens up behind your back ... You try to stretch your arm as far as possible, but still the picture does not show what you need. There is a way out - to buy a convenient and practical selfie stick. A high-quality accessory for a mobile or camera is not so cheap. If you cannot afford such a purchase, make it yourself from improvised items.

How to make a selfie stick with your own hands: interesting ideas

If you want to see a master class, we are unlikely to help you with this. Today we want to present you the most unusual and original ideas, thanks to which you can use absolutely any thing that you have at hand. Why invent a bicycle when you can build a stick in just a few seconds! Of course, it will not be very convenient to carry such a device with you, but you will have the most original gadget!

How to make a selfie stick: unusual and practical

Slingshot. Yes, you didn't think so. Why not? A branch of the desired shape can always be found on the ground or on a tree. It remains only to stick the phone with tape and take a picture!

Umbrella handle. If you have an umbrella lying around somewhere with a handle like this, you can use it for pictures. But only if it fits your phone.

Mop. Another good and budget option, besides, it is in every home. Scotch to the rescue!

Golf club and paddle. You can replace the stick with anything, even an ordinary plastic stick. But in order for the gadget to be conveniently located, attach the spatula that you use in the kitchen to cook food to a stick or stick.

Ruler. Do you have a long, strong ruler made of metal or plastic at home? Below we'll show you how to make the ultimate selfie stick out of it.

You need to take a plastic container in which the cassettes are stored. If you have not had them for a long time, use something else, rectangular in shape and compact in size. Cut the sponge for washing dishes, as in the photo.

Glue the sponge pieces as follows, on all sides. There should be a place between the pieces, it is intended for your phone. Well, it remains to glue this device to the end of the line. Selfie stick is ready!

Men's online magazine website


In recent years, taking self-portraits with a mobile phone has become an extremely popular pastime among young people. Many creative individuals manage to fix in this way not only themselves, but also a whole host of unusual moments from everyday life. At the same time, the main problem here remains an insignificant viewing angle, limited by the length of the photographer's arm.

The developers found a way out of the situation by creating such a solution, which had the most positive effect on increasing the artistic value of the pictures. However, it is not at all necessary to purchase a factory-assembled invention. It is enough to consider how a selfie stick for Android can be made with your own hands.

What is a selfie stick?

Most often, such names as a holder for a smartphone or a monopod are used to designate a functional invention. The device has the form of a retractable cane made of plastic or other lightweight materials. At the end of the monopod there is a mount for fixing the phone, on the other hand there is a rubberized handle.

The button that activates the camera is most often built into the handle. If a selfie stick is made by hand, such a shutter can be made in the form of a remote control key fob.

When preparing the monopod for use, it is necessary to synchronize it with a smartphone via Bluetooh. The parameters of the new device must be fixed in the mobile phone settings.

Applications

The benefits of a retractable cane with a smartphone holder are much more than it might seem at first glance. When organizing trips with family or friends, often the person who is entrusted with shooting has to fall out of the frame. Monopod solves this problem, allowing you to take pictures where everyone is present without exception.

Of course, you can always stop passers-by and ask to take a photo. However, in nature or in the wilderness, this becomes impossible. Moreover, in some situations it is necessary to take a picture at a height where not everyone agrees to climb.

Selfie sticks are in particular demand among smartphone owners who are fond of posting their own pictures on social networks. The invention is an indispensable tool for extreme sportsmen who perform dizzying stunts and wish to capture themselves in the process. A factory-made product or a self-made selfie stick can bring invaluable benefits to hikers who prefer to travel alone.

Operation features

How to use a monopod correctly? Taking pictures with a telescopic device is not so difficult. It is enough to securely fix the smartphone in the mount, extend the cane to the required length and activate the camera by pressing a special button. This completes the preparation of the device. Then you can freely use it for shooting at non-standard angles, fixing objects that are located in hard-to-reach places or located at a considerable height.

DIY selfie stick - tools and materials

What do you need to assemble a practical smartphone holder yourself? To make a selfie stick with your own hands at home, you will need the following set of tools and consumables:

  • building hair dryer;
  • drill;
  • drill;
  • a tube with a diameter of about 20 mm, made of polypropylene;
  • vise for fixing the base of the future product in a static position;
  • stationery knife;
  • foam rubber or rubber for the manufacture of the handle;
  • glue gun.

Do-it-yourself selfie stick for your phone - work progress

The procedure for making a monopod for a smartphone with your own hands involves performing work in the following sequence:

  1. The end of the polypropylene pipe is heated with the help. As soon as the specified part becomes plastic, the material is tightly clamped in a vice.
  2. After cooling and acquiring a flattened shape by the end of the pipe, the vise is removed, and the future selfie stick is reheated with a hair dryer with your own hands. This time, the operation is performed to give the structure an optimal angle of inclination for the survey. The specified parameter is selected individually for each individual user and depends primarily on the height of the person.
  3. As soon as the cane has completely cooled down, you can proceed to smoothing the edges of the product with the help of After completing the task, holes for fasteners are made in the squeezed part at the end of the stick with a drill.
  4. At the opposite end of the polypropylene tube, a rubber or foam rubber handle is formed. The selected material is fixed on the cane due to the fit on the hot melt adhesive. A hole is created at the bottom of the handle with a drill to secure the lace that will be worn on the wrist, preventing the selfie stick from accidentally falling during its use.
  5. In conclusion, it remains to fix the mobile phone or portable camera on a homemade monopod using bolts and washers.

Eventually

A do-it-yourself selfie stick prepared in this way, the photo of which can be seen in this material, is an extremely lightweight, convenient tool for taking pictures. Due to its small diameter, this cane fits well in the palm of your hand.

The only drawback of the home-made design of this plan is the monolithic structure. So during the operation of the device, there may be some discomfort associated with its transportation. Therefore, sometimes it is better not to chase a significant length, which allows you to capture a wide view, but, on the contrary, to make a monopod of compact dimensions that is more convenient to use.

It's pretty fun to take funny selfies, and it's even more fun to watch people take them (especially if they're holding a selfie stick). But let's face it, since you're taking selfies, you could make them look as good as possible.

This might be a problem. First, there is a strong limitation, your arm is not very long (hence the popularity of selfie sticks). secondly, it is difficult to press the buttons while holding your hand steadily and not cover the lens. Thirdly, lighting. Unless you've been standing outside during the daytime, selfies often come out dark or hazy.

Newer phones make these shots easier with features like a wide-angle lens and a front LED panel or even a screen that doubles as a flash. But there are several ways to improve the quality of your frontal photos, no matter what phone you have. I will highlight my five favorites; in the comments, you can add your recommendations to improve the quality of the selfie.

1. Higher angle.

Everything depends on your hands. When you hold the camera at or below eye level, you increase the "chin count". And a few chins are selfie enemy #1. So, when you reach out your hand, make sure it is above your head, angled down towards your face. Thus, you will have to tilt your head slightly up, which easily and effectively solves the problem of chins.

2. Using the shutter timer.

It is difficult enough to keep the arm steady when it is outstretched. When you press the button or the screen to release the shutter, a little camera shake is unavoidable. Result: blurry selfies.

Luckily, most camera apps include a self-timer option, and while this can get in the way of spontaneity, it can also help reduce shake. This is because you can focus on holding the phone steady and without too much acrobatics when pressing the shutter. An added bonus: the extra few seconds give you time to remember to look at the actual camera lens, not the screen or the home button.

3. Add flash.

Unless you have an iPhone 6S or one of the few phones that has a front-facing LED flash, you need a way to light up your face. Especially for indoor/night/club shots. More light = better pictures. (I know there are exceptions.)

Android users can try app-based solutions to simulate flash, which simply brightens the screen for a short time. And all users can use a rechargeable standalone LED flash that plugs into the phone's headphone jack.

Just search online stores for "selfie flash". There are a number of the same kind of products that have 16 LEDs and rechargeable batteries, although some have the added benefit of three levels of brightness rather than just "on" and "off". Prices for them range from $3 to $9 depending on where they are made.


Either way, this is a very inexpensive fix for low-light photos. And of course, you can rotate the LEDs around to add light to your rear camera photos too.

4. Make your phone easier to hold.

One reason for the popularity of the selfie stick is that it frees you from the awkward hold of your phone at arm's length. But there are other phone mount options, namely Lazy-Hands and Ninja Loop.

Lazy-Hands adds loops to the back of the phone. This gives you a more comfortable way to hold your phone while taking selfies. Instead of pinching the phone around the edges, you can put your fingers through the loops. Prices for this solution start at $9.99.


If you want something a little less bulky and intrusive, Ninja Loop offers a similar grip.

5. Hang your phone on a wall or window.

Forget the selfie stick. How about a self-adhesive phone instead? This is the idea behind NanoHold, which started as a Kickstarter project but is now a finished product.

For $6 you get a specially designed sticky pad that sticks to the back of your phone or flat case. You can then just magically stick it to any flat, non-porous surface (like a window or whiteboard). And that's it! Now you can use the aforementioned self-timer (or an app like CamMe) for handfree selfies.


NanoHold isn't designed to hold your phone on the wall for hours, but it can certainly hold it there long enough to take a few shots.

Selfie is a newfangled trend that has taken over the whole world. Photographing yourself with a mirror has gradually sunk into oblivion: on the wave of excitement - self-portraits created using special tripods or monopods.

Selfie lovers use different photo techniques. Monopods equipped with a Bluetooth button are very famous, there are models that are optimal for athletes, avid travelers, resourceful video bloggers and creative individuals.

Convenient "stick": buy or make?

The use of an ergonomic tripod for photography is certainly better than a traditional selfie: hands do not shake, more little things in the background are fixed, and unique shots are created. For this reason, convenient "sticks" for selfie are instantly swept away from the store counter.

You can also save time on their manufacture and order in your favorite color on our website. However, is it possible to make a monopod with your own hands using publicly available materials and tools? We offer you to get acquainted with the simplest technique for creating and assembling your own monopod.

Assembling the monopod by hand

The manufacturing process of the universal includes several stages.

Necessary materials:

  • building hair dryer;
  • drill / screwdriver;
  • 4.5 mm drill;
  • PP pipe (d=20 mm);
  • clamp;
  • 6 mm bolt;
  • Stationery knife;
  • glue gun;
  • foam rubber (30*30 cm)
  • rope.

Assembly:

1. We heat the upper part of the polypropylene pipe with a hair dryer, then press the molten material with a clamp.


2. When the pipe has completely cooled down, the clamp is removed.

3. Again we heat up the tube, at the same time bending it with a clamp. This is necessary to obtain the desired angle of inclination, which depends on individual preferences.

4. Remove the clamp and round off the end of the tube with a utility knife.

5. We make a through hole with a drill or a screwdriver.

6. Create a handle: wrap the free area of ​​the tube with foam rubber, which is then glued with hot glue.

7. The edges of the foam rubber are cut off with a knife.

8. We will equip the handle with a rope for convenient operation of the “selfie stick” by making a hole on one side of the pipe under the foam rubber.

9. Fasten the camera to the new monopod with a bolt.

Your monopod is ready to use.

There are several more options on how to quickly and inexpensively assemble a monopod for different purposes, whether it's a Go Pro camera or a tripod for a camera.

See one of them in the video example.