Thanks Fred . Honestly not so worried about the VR part, I do use a monopod a lot and actually like working with one. I thought correct me if i am wrong would you not just turn the VR off when mounted to a pod. Seems kind of redundant.
I like working with a monopod too. However I have found that VR is helpfull with a monopod too as you can still have lateral shake. When using such a high defenition and "smallish sensor" vibration is more of an issue. You need to move an MF back twice as much to have the same problem.
But more important than VR is having a stand with a good amount of mass and solidity. I have done resolution test chart tests with the Fuji gx680 on a regular tripod and then on a really heavy studio column tripod. I did these at 1/60th. It is quite amazing to see the gain in resolution. Mind you the Fuji does have a rather slappy mirror.
I shot once with loud music in studio using a carbon monopod.... it was resonating with the music and I was not getting very sharp photos.
I put the camera on the column stand and problem was solved.
I think that the resolution of the D800 in such a small space 24x36 requires taking certain steps to make it work at it's best.
A friend sent me a couple of beauty shots shot with the d800. Big Elinchrom Octa, little makeup and natural skin. The tones, detail and color were just wonderful. Can't post them as they are for publication in a month or so.
It was nice to see the shots though. No fancy lighting scheme, no rim or hair lights, just nice simple soft light.
Anyway going back to the VR.... IF your not shooting video I think that saving $ 2,000 on a VR I lens instread of a VR II lens is a smart move if you are using a monopod and can add some weight to the monopod. But you know where that saved $ 2,000 is going to go already .. right.... how many lenses does Nikon make?:thumbup: