Camera accessory maker Joby garnered a bunch of notoriety with its original Gorillapod line of flexible-legged tripods that enabled photographers to easily set up cameras, camcorders, and lights in unusual spots with a minimum of fuss, either by standing up or wrapping the legs around a convenient object. Now, Joby is taking the Gorillapod one step further with the Gorillapod Magnetic—same flexible-legged tripod design, same cool insect-like presence and profile…but now with powerful magnets in the feet so the Gorillapod can glom onto any magnet surface: refrigerators, filing cabinets, brackets, pickup-truck hard-tops—heck, even door hinges if your camera is light enough.
The Gorillapod Magnetic will support compact digital cameras and mini camcorders weighing up to 11.5 ounces. The Gorillapod itself retains its classic light weight (2.5 ounces) and is 6 inches tall. Joby expects the Gorillapod Magnetic will be available worldwide in April at a suggested retail price of $24.95. Joby also makes larger Gorillapods for SLRs and heavier items—some of those include a bubble level.
Joby has also announced the Ballhead X for their Gorillapod Focus , which can handle up to 5 kg of gear. The Ballhead X attachment enables users to smoothly pan, rotate, and tilt their camera while shooting, without compromising the Gorillapod stand’s support. The Ballhead X can handle 3/8-inch and 1/4-inch threads so it can be used with other tripods, and features a quick-release plate that stays attached to a camera for fast setup. The Ballhead X will retail for $79.95, and will also be offered as an accessory with the Gorillapod Focus.
