It’s so simple, yet it’s such a brilliant idea. And it’s something that is useful for every single traveler who takes photos during their adventures around the world. It’s actually useful for any human being who takes photos of anything, anywhere, at any time.
It’s the XShot camera extender, something that I’ve now been using religiously for the past two months after first seeing a friend of mine using one earlier this year. And now, I can’t imagine traveling without my XShot (I have the Pocket XShot version) as it instantly adds an entirely new dimension to my photography.
I’m not a great photographer at all, but that’s irrelevant when using this thing as no effort is needed to take photos from angles and perspectives that otherwise would be impossible. Just attach your camera, set the self-timer and extend the arm, and then say goodbye to your normal collection of standard shots as you begin to pile up photos that are so very different than any you’ve taken before.
In addition, the XShot takes up practically no space at all in your backpack or suitcase and it weighs almost nothing, which helps make it even more addicting to use.
Introducing The “XShot Series”
It’s because of my addiction that I decided to start a monthly series here on the blog in order to display some of the photos and videos that I’ve been taking with my XShot camera extender. Each post in the series will focus on a different region of the world and the first post, right here below, includes shots taken during my recent trip through the Balkans.
I have a feeling you’ll quickly agree that this is not only one of the coolest travel accessories out there, but it’s also an accessory that every traveler should carry…
VIDEO: An Afternoon With My XShot
The other day I took my XShot out and decided to demonstrate exactly how it works with a short video. You won’t believe how fun it is to use this thing!
(If you’re reading this post via email, please click here to watch the video.)
The XShot comes in two versions at the moment, the XShot 2.0 and the Pocket XShot, and the company also sells specially-designed iPhone cases that can then be used with the XShot extenders (see all their products at XShot.com). And the best part is that the XShot costs under $30 USD, making it a very affordable accessory, especially considering the amazing effect it will have on your photos!
*This post is sponsored by XShot LLC. I approached them about working together because I really believe their products are very useful and since I only recommend items that I use and love myself, I felt that this partnership was a natural match.
Have you used an XShot? What do you think? Would it be useful for you?
Back in 1999, I left home for a 3 month trip to Asia that has still yet to end.
I bought one of these in the spring but for some reason focused only on using it to take self-portraits. I felt a little silly using it with people around, but I really need to give it a second chance. Plus, I love how you used it to get your camera up over people’s heads for a different perspective. I’ll put this back on my packing list for my upcoming trip.
Hey Melissa – I felt silly at first too but once I started taking shots with people around, I didn’t care any more and kept snapping away! And reaching above everyone’s heads is one of my favorite angles…try it out and I’m sure you’ll be addicted as well
I’m only 5’2″ (on a good day). I NEED this!
Hey Stephanie – This would definitely be ideal for you! Just think of the photos you can get from way above!
i use a small desk tripod but yours is better must get one. wally
This looks like a great tool with many uses but being that photography is my passion and profession, I’m usually packing full photo gear (Canon 5D, lenses, tripod, etc). it wouldn’t be practical for me. Would work well with my point & shoot though!
Hey Andy – Definitely would work well with the point and shoot, especially since the XShot takes up basically no space at all. It’s worth it just for taking photos of ourselves, never mind all the unique angles as well.
This is great! I have been wanting one ever since I saw someone use it in Israel and take some amazing shots. When I get my next camera, I am definitely going to get an extender too. Lots more unique shots with it.
Hey Alexa – Good to hear and I’m certain you’ll love it!
Great recommendation! What camera do you use? I’m pretty sure you’ve told us before, so I’ll be scouring the blog, too. It looks like a Kodak Easy Share maybe.
Guess you know the next item we just added to our list! lol
Hey Michele – It’s actually the new Panasonic Lumix ZS20, an amazing camera that in my opinion is the perfect travel camera!
I have been drooling over this camera since seeing it in Singapore last week. I have a TZ15 and this upgrade to the one you mentioned is also known as the TZ30 in this part of the world. It is amazing. I already love my camera but the zoom and wide angle on the new one would take everything to another level. I got some fantastic night shots of the new Bayside Gardens in Singapore with the “super trees” all lit up. I am seriously thinking of upgrading the camera and adding an xshot to the travel mix. Thanks for sharing such great tools with your readers.
Hey MIssy – The TZ30 is the best camera I have owned and it’s perfect for anyone who does not want to carry around a larger DSLR. I really don’t think there’s a better point and shoot out there.
Though I want a DSLR, it isn’t practical for my upcoming trip, so I got a smaller Canon power shot. It is in the same price range you mentioned. I am all about Canon products and even when I look at others, always return to Canon. I will be curious to see the differences between our cameras in India. I’m excited to see the Xshot in action too!
Hey Christine – The Power Shot is a good camera for sure, with very high quality photos. The only reason I didn’t get one myself is because I like having a larger zoom, which the Lumix ZS20 has…either way, we’ll have fun in India with those XShots…that’s a guarantee!
Haha, it looks like you had a blast making the video. Now where’s the footage?
I have an Xshot and agree that it’s an awesome little camera accessory! The only downside is that I’ve run into some issues packing it in my carry-on luggage. I almost had it taken off of me 3 times last year in airports!
Hey Amanda – Hmmm…maybe I’ll show the footage at some point
I was actually going to include the outtakes in this video but decided not to in the end. I look ever sillier in those than I do in the actual video!
And I have heard that getting the XShot through security in airports can be a challenge. I generally check my backpack so haven’t experienced that myself. But I’m glad you haven’t actually had it taken off you!!
This is great!! You have some awesome shots! I want one! I loved the video btw… Do you have the video of you filming yourself aswell?
Hey Anni – I do have the video and perhaps I’ll share it in the near future…or in next month’s installment of the series
Hey I recognise the strange-looking feet in that last photo!
I definitely need to get my hands on an Xshot – not just because you looked so (ahem) suave using one, but because you can take such damn cool photos with it!
Hey Dave – At least I didn’t put the photo that had you yawning in the background! And yes, you do need an XShot now that you saw first hand how very cool it is.
It’s too bad XShot couldn’t give your readers a discount too!
Great post. Loved the pics and the many ways you showed the XShot could be used. They were smart to sponsor the post, you definitely made me want to get one.
Hey Early – I’m happy to hear that and believe me, when you do order one and it arrives, you’ll have as much fun with it as I do!
Cool! I MUST get one of these!
I’ve seen those everywhere during my travels and wondered what they did! After seeing your stunning photos, I’m seriously tempted to run out and buy one…
Hey Jessica – Just go and get one…you won’t regret it at all!
Hi, great accessory Earl, just a quick question though, how do you focus your camera for still shots especially people shots? Your pics look like they are pretty well focused.
Hey Missy – The camera just focuses on its own. I simply simply set the self-timer on my camera so that I have 10 seconds (or 2 or 5 seconds) to get the shot ready and that’s it. I would imagine with most cameras the auto-focusing would work well, especially if you hold the XShot somewhat steady (which is quite easy to do).
OMG that is genius!! Whilst I love my DSLR, I like the concept of being able to take some pretty cool snaps with my happy snapper! http://www.travellingbelle.com
Hey Belle – The unique photos you get with this thing makes such a difference and you might end up using your point and shoot more than your DSLR once you get started
Thanks for posting this. I want one now!
Hey Earl
I don’t know how you did it, but somehow you made a 30 something year old man playing with his pole on a jungle gym NOT look creepy
I’m sold, gonna see if I can find one on our way to Mexico.
Cheers
Tyrhone
Hey Tyrhone – Haha…well, you should have seen the parents at the playground quickly taking their children far away from me! (joking)
And Mexico would be a great place for an XShot…I can just imagine you at the top of some very cool ruins such as Coba, where you would get some unreal shots if you could reach out from the top of the pyramid!
Great idea, and thanks for bringing it up, just ordered one shipping it overnight so I can have it on Thursday when my vacation starts.
You are one wild and crazy kinda guy!
Hey Scott – I thought traveling was a crazy adventure…turns out a playground is really where the adventure is at! And that’s excellent that you ordered one…let me know how it goes and I’d love to see some photos you take with it during your vacation.
Got it today…..can’t wait to use it. Will be on the Oregon Coast, and at the Oregon-Arkansas State football game, am thinking some really great game shots, too.
Also, through B&H in NYC, it was cheaper than from the manufacturer….B&H PRICE $29, from the manufacturer, $34 or $34.95!
Awesome accesory, Earl! I need to get one for me!
I bought one of these but unfortunately my Canon G12 was too heavy.
The camera mount kept swivelling around from the weight so that the camera was upside-down. Very disappointing.
It’s a great concept though.
Hi Will,
I checked the weight of your camera and it should have worked fine as it is around 1lb and we recommend a 1.25lb max. Did you get the original XShot or the 2.0? The first one had a stainless steel smooth shaft that was swiveling as you mentioned with heavier weights or off-centered tripod mounts. We discontinued it a few years ago and created ridges on the sides to prevent that. Unfortunately, some flawed copies are still on the market but you can recognize a real XShot with the slotted metal shaft that can block at any length.
If you have a Pocket XShot or XShot 2.0, please contact us as yours may be defective , sorry about that. Email @ xshot@xshot.com and we will take care of you
Hey, yeah. I think it was the older version (sorry to diss your product unfairly).
Here’s a link to the item I bought. http://www.cambuy.com.au/XShot-Telescopic-Camera-Extender.html
I’ll have to try one of the new ones. I’m sure it will work a lot better.
Hey Will – XShot just replied to your comment as well and they offered an email address so that you can contact them. They mentioned that they would like to help out and make sure that you have the latest XShot version that will support your camera. It is a great concept and I’m sure they’ll get you set up so that you can use it without any issues!
Hey Earl, as you can probably see I replied to the post above. Will shoot them an email. Thanks for that! Love the blog. Cheers.
For those of us with too heavy cameras – my Canons SX20 is one – I’m now considering a monopod – these have been around for years – but it wasn’t until I read this that I understood the point of them
Thats awesome! the view point that you can take your pictures is just incomparable to a normal view point! must get one of these
I’m SOLD! Now… how do I get one in Vietnam???
Hey Dyanne – Good question…I guess you could have one sent to family or friends at home somewhere and then have them send it to Vietnam?? It’s possible!
I’m definitely getting one of these babies!
What kind of camera do you use? I’m going to get myself a new one soon. Something small and compact that I can always have in my bag but takes great pics.
Are you going to show us the photos you took during the video? I bet they’re hilarious.
Hey Bethaney – I think I mentioned it on twitter but I use a Panasonic Lumix ZS20…and I think it is one of the best travel cameras on the market. And I’m still working on those photos I took during the video…I’ll get them up eventually
Earl,
This is a handy little device and such a simple concept! I hope you are getting compensated for doing such a great job at promoting their product! What does it retail for? Does it fit all make and model cameras?
Sally
Hey Sally – It retails for around $29 and it fits all cameras under 1.24 lbs (just over 1/2 kg).
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I am still waiting for you to post the actual video feed of you twirling around and playing on the jungle gym! LOL!
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Great post.
I went tandem paragliding in turkey and I am pretty sure they use them to record the flight. Check out my facebook post http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=1519329055488&set=vb.1002376005&type=2&theater
If it doesn’t work please let me know.
Any ladies may want to turn the volume down cos of my language and girlish screaming. Just ordered on online cannot wait to give it a go.
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Earl,
This looks like a great device. You may want to mention to your readers that if they are going hiking, there is a device that you can attach to your trekking pole that allows the same shots. Of course if you are not carrying trekking poles – it won’t do you much good! It’s called the StickPic and here is a link to my 2012 PCT blog where people can link to the website. http://russmease.blogspot.com/p/sponsors.html
Just now got my xshot in the mail. After playing with it for like 10 minutes, I am already hooked. Definitely a great product!
Hey Dave – Enjoy!!
How do you click the shutter on your camera using one of these? Or are you just using the timer? I didn’t see anything in the video other than a verbal “click”.
Hey Ryan – You simply set the timer and go from there!