Which tripod? - Page 2

bored4long · 11/04/2008, 11:14 AM

Doug, thanks for doing this thread. I think I'm going to take advantage of the live.com cashback and pick up legs and head on ebay.

I've decided on the Manfrotto 055xprob legs, because they taller and sturdier than the 190 legs.

I'm torn between the 322rc2 and 488 ballhead. Can you offer advice between the two of these? I think the 322rc2 would be strong enough for any camera/lens combo I put on it. I'm leaning towards the 488, since it would be easier to pan with that one.

My photos will primarily be macros of the tank and portrait. Thanks!

BlueCorn · 11/04/2008, 11:16 AM

I've never cared for the "grip" heads but that's just personal preference. If it was me choosing between those two I'd get the 488 as well.

TitusvileSurfer · 11/04/2008, 03:20 PM

I use the 488CR2 myself and love it, but I want Doug's Gitzo.

xtra-salty · 11/15/2008, 09:55 AM

I am currently in the market for a tripod to support my D700. The D700 weighs in around 35 oz. and my heaviest lens is a AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED @ 35.3oz (close to 4.5 lbs total). I am trying to stay between $400~$600, possibly closer to 4. I would prefer a heavier setup and a bigger collapsed size if it can keep the price down....and also I am 6'1" so i need something tall. I mainly shoot outdoors and some macro shots of fish/animals,etc. I took a look at the 488CR2 because of the comments about it and it seems like it would work for a good price, but man am I stuck on deciding what legs. Ive also been looking at Gitzo options but not sure f I can fit it into my price range. Any experts care to push me in the right direction? I would appreciate it!

BlueCorn · 11/15/2008, 10:09 AM

This would be a decent choice. It's aluminum so it's cheaper than fiber and you'd only have to extend the center column about half way. Your height eliminates a bunch of them.

Manfrotto 055XB

That head is a decent choice as well.

Cheers

xtra-salty · 11/15/2008, 02:02 PM

Thanks for your help. I started to notice my height was becoming a deciding factor on alot of these tripod legs.

So that combo takes me under budget, so I keep browsing around and always seem to end up looking at this head GH1780. I like the independent pan and tilt locks for shooting panoramas.
I can only imagine the injustice of putting this head on a cheap set of legs though...

BlueCorn · 11/15/2008, 02:13 PM

I love my Gitzo legs but haven't been fond of their heads. I love my Really Right Stuff head I've got the BH-40LRII but the BH-25 supports up to almost 9 lbs.

BH-25

dc · 11/28/2008, 03:55 PM

Well I hate messing with my tripod. (came with my sony f-717) so I bought a monopod for a little stability. I got a Manfrotto 334B Automatic Monopod. And a 234RC quick release head. I figure it's a step up from not using anything.

BlueCorn · 11/29/2008, 10:03 AM

Nice Debi. You're correct that anything that you can do to stabilize yourself is a step in the right direction. A monopod can be really handy for shooting sports (or anything else that moves). They can also be great for public places that don't typically allow tripods, like museums, aquariums, etc.

They don't lend themselves very useful to my style of shooting but that's just me.

Cheers

Jar*Head · 12/05/2008, 12:05 PM

What do you guy think about this tripod Velbon I716H

BlueCorn · 12/05/2008, 12:09 PM

The legs are "okay." The geared column doesn't have any way to lock it down so it's not going to be very stable with it extended. That head also wouldn't be my first choice. It really looks like it's designed to be a video tripod versus photo.

Jar*Head · 12/05/2008, 12:15 PM

Damn just order it lastnight. I have the same problem with the other tripod

BlueCorn · 12/05/2008, 12:28 PM

I just added this to the first post, it'll definitely help in your case:

---
If you're going to the trouble of using a tripod you should also invest in a remote trigger. It doesn't matter if it's wired or wireless; the key is that you're not touching the camera during the shot. If you don't have a remote trigger, consider using the camera's self-timer feature. If your current tripod is less than stellar, this can make a huge difference in the sharpness of your shots.

Jar*Head · 12/05/2008, 01:02 PM

Thanks Doug, the remote trigger is my next purchase. My old Velbon is mainly for Video. The reason i bought the newer Velbon and cost twice as much because it seems stronger plus they got my weakness by saying great for 35mm DSLR

. I will look into purchase the ballhead

dc · 12/06/2008, 11:12 AM

LOL, I like that kind of head myself. Mine looks much like that and is a quick release, as is my tripod that I never use.

I am finding I will grab this monopod way more than I'll set up my tripod. My camera came with a remote. Haven't been anywhere to use it yet.

Jar*Head · 12/06/2008, 12:32 PM

I did some research lastnight on the Gitzo tripod. Doug, you have such a expensive taste

but the tripod looks very nice though. I will saving up for it.... BTW, i canceled my other tripod order.

BlueCorn · 12/07/2008, 06:33 PM

If you don't want to break the bank, and don't mind a little extra weight, you could pick up a set of Manfrotto 190 series legs. That and a nice head would do fine. I love my Gitzo but a $650 tripod isn't for everyone.

Jar*Head · 12/07/2008, 11:56 PM

Doug,
why settle with something that you are not fully happy with

. I am saving up for the Gitzo. Just like reefing, i don't want to keep on upgrade....

xtm · 01/18/2009, 11:22 AM

Doug, can you recommend a "budget" Manfrotto/ballhead setup from B&H? I don't mind if it's heavy, just looking for a stable and reliable setup. My camera/lens is about 5 lbs and I'm thinking at least 4 ft high would be ideal.

Also, can I shoot in portrait orientation using a ballhead or do you guys suggest I buy an L-bracket?

thanks

maddog10 · 01/18/2009, 11:55 AM

One additional thing to consider when getting a tripod for aquarium photography is how reflective the legs are. Silver/aluminum can show in a photo if the lighting isn't just right. Consider black, grey, brown or dark green when shopping.

I also strongly suggest you go to a store to try out the heads (or order from a store with good return policy). Some will just feel more comfortable than others. Make sure it has the features you are looking for and attach YOUR camera and lens to it while you try it in the shop.

BlueCorn · 01/19/2009, 10:06 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by xtm
Doug, can you recommend a "budget" Manfrotto/ballhead setup from B&H? I don't mind if it's heavy, just looking for a stable and reliable setup. My camera/lens is about 5 lbs and I'm thinking at least 4 ft high would be ideal.

Also, can I shoot in portrait orientation using a ballhead or do you guys suggest I buy an L-bracket?

thanks

Take a look at the Manfrotto 190 series. The 486RC2 is okay for the price but it's definitely no-frills.

dendronepthya · 03/06/2009, 03:33 PM

I just picked up my compact tripod kit. It consists of:
Gitzo 1550T legs
Markins Q3 Ball Head

Really Right Stuff B2 LR II Clamp

Pretty well made stuff compared to the $30 walmart tripod I used to use.

BlueCorn · 03/06/2009, 03:34 PM

I love my RRS gear. Did you get an L-Bracket too?

dendronepthya · 03/08/2009, 09:45 PM

I didn't pick up the L-bracket. The reviews I heard from others were very positive but I thought it would be just too bulky for my taste. Is it used primarily for portrait orientation?

BlueCorn · 03/08/2009, 10:10 PM

It's for both orientations. It also allows you to switch back and forth very quickly. Spend the extra money - you won't regret it.

11/04/2008, 11:14 AM	#26
bored4long Registered Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: Roseville, CA Posts: 2,690	Doug, thanks for doing this thread. I think I'm going to take advantage of the live.com cashback and pick up legs and head on ebay. I've decided on the Manfrotto 055xprob legs, because they taller and sturdier than the 190 legs. I'm torn between the 322rc2 and 488 ballhead. Can you offer advice between the two of these? I think the 322rc2 would be strong enough for any camera/lens combo I put on it. I'm leaning towards the 488, since it would be easier to pan with that one. My photos will primarily be macros of the tank and portrait. Thanks! __________________ - Mark

11/04/2008, 11:16 AM	#27
BlueCorn Retired Join Date: May 2002 Posts: 32,908	I've never cared for the "grip" heads but that's just personal preference. If it was me choosing between those two I'd get the 488 as well. __________________ Doug [I]Dodging and burning are steps to take care of mistakes God made when establishing tonal relationships. ~ Ansel Adams[/I]

11/04/2008, 03:20 PM	#28
TitusvileSurfer Registered Member Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Titusville, FL Posts: 3,227	I use the 488CR2 myself and love it, but I want Doug's Gitzo. __________________ The ocean is the pinnacle of reef tanks. Someone up there is keeping up with his PH and Phosphates to.

11/15/2008, 10:09 AM	#30
BlueCorn Retired Join Date: May 2002 Posts: 32,908	This would be a decent choice. It's aluminum so it's cheaper than fiber and you'd only have to extend the center column about half way. Your height eliminates a bunch of them. Manfrotto 055XB That head is a decent choice as well. Cheers __________________ Doug [I]Dodging and burning are steps to take care of mistakes God made when establishing tonal relationships. ~ Ansel Adams[/I]

11/15/2008, 02:13 PM	#32
BlueCorn Retired Join Date: May 2002 Posts: 32,908	I love my Gitzo legs but haven't been fond of their heads. I love my Really Right Stuff head I've got the BH-40LRII but the BH-25 supports up to almost 9 lbs. BH-25 __________________ Doug [I]Dodging and burning are steps to take care of mistakes God made when establishing tonal relationships. ~ Ansel Adams[/I]

11/15/2008, 09:55 AM	#29
xtra-salty Registered Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: New Jersey Posts: 112	I am currently in the market for a tripod to support my D700. The D700 weighs in around 35 oz. and my heaviest lens is a AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED @ 35.3oz (close to 4.5 lbs total). I am trying to stay between $400~$600, possibly closer to 4. I would prefer a heavier setup and a bigger collapsed size if it can keep the price down....and also I am 6'1" so i need something tall. I mainly shoot outdoors and some macro shots of fish/animals,etc. I took a look at the 488CR2 because of the comments about it and it seems like it would work for a good price, but man am I stuck on deciding what legs. Ive also been looking at Gitzo options but not sure f I can fit it into my price range. Any experts care to push me in the right direction? I would appreciate it!

11/15/2008, 02:02 PM	#31
xtra-salty Registered Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: New Jersey Posts: 112	Thanks for your help. I started to notice my height was becoming a deciding factor on alot of these tripod legs. So that combo takes me under budget, so I keep browsing around and always seem to end up looking at this head GH1780. I like the independent pan and tilt locks for shooting panoramas. I can only imagine the injustice of putting this head on a cheap set of legs though...

11/28/2008, 03:55 PM	#33
dc Moderator Emeritus Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: Wyoming Posts: 44,684	Well I hate messing with my tripod. (came with my sony f-717) so I bought a monopod for a little stability. I got a Manfrotto 334B Automatic Monopod. And a 234RC quick release head. I figure it's a step up from not using anything. __________________ Debi ~60 Cube~ Why? Because I said so of course. -Sent via Tapatalk Smoke Signals-

11/29/2008, 10:03 AM	#34
BlueCorn Retired Join Date: May 2002 Posts: 32,908	Nice Debi. You're correct that anything that you can do to stabilize yourself is a step in the right direction. A monopod can be really handy for shooting sports (or anything else that moves). They can also be great for public places that don't typically allow tripods, like museums, aquariums, etc. They don't lend themselves very useful to my style of shooting but that's just me. Cheers __________________ Doug [I]Dodging and burning are steps to take care of mistakes God made when establishing tonal relationships. ~ Ansel Adams[/I]

12/05/2008, 12:05 PM	#35
Jar*Head Premium Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Orange County, CA Posts: 8,630	What do you guy think about this tripod Velbon I716H __________________ Steve Tankless. Current Tank Info: 480g peninsula Last edited by JarHead; 12/05/2008 at 12:11 PM.*

12/05/2008, 12:09 PM	#36
BlueCorn Retired Join Date: May 2002 Posts: 32,908	The legs are "okay." The geared column doesn't have any way to lock it down so it's not going to be very stable with it extended. That head also wouldn't be my first choice. It really looks like it's designed to be a video tripod versus photo. __________________ Doug [I]Dodging and burning are steps to take care of mistakes God made when establishing tonal relationships. ~ Ansel Adams[/I]

12/05/2008, 12:15 PM	#37
Jar*Head Premium Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Orange County, CA Posts: 8,630	Damn just order it lastnight. I have the same problem with the other tripod __________________ Steve Tankless. Current Tank Info: 480g peninsula

12/05/2008, 12:28 PM	#38
BlueCorn Retired Join Date: May 2002 Posts: 32,908	I just added this to the first post, it'll definitely help in your case: --- If you're going to the trouble of using a tripod you should also invest in a remote trigger. It doesn't matter if it's wired or wireless; the key is that you're not touching the camera during the shot. If you don't have a remote trigger, consider using the camera's self-timer feature. If your current tripod is less than stellar, this can make a huge difference in the sharpness of your shots. __________________ Doug [I]Dodging and burning are steps to take care of mistakes God made when establishing tonal relationships. ~ Ansel Adams[/I]

12/05/2008, 01:02 PM	#39
Jar*Head Premium Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Orange County, CA Posts: 8,630	Thanks Doug, the remote trigger is my next purchase. My old Velbon is mainly for Video. The reason i bought the newer Velbon and cost twice as much because it seems stronger plus they got my weakness by saying great for 35mm DSLR . I will look into purchase the ballhead __________________ Steve Tankless. Current Tank Info: 480g peninsula

12/06/2008, 11:12 AM	#40
dc Moderator Emeritus Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: Wyoming Posts: 44,684	LOL, I like that kind of head myself. Mine looks much like that and is a quick release, as is my tripod that I never use. I am finding I will grab this monopod way more than I'll set up my tripod. My camera came with a remote. Haven't been anywhere to use it yet. __________________ Debi ~60 Cube~ Why? Because I said so of course. -Sent via Tapatalk Smoke Signals-

12/06/2008, 12:32 PM	#41
Jar*Head Premium Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Orange County, CA Posts: 8,630	I did some research lastnight on the Gitzo tripod. Doug, you have such a expensive taste but the tripod looks very nice though. I will saving up for it.... BTW, i canceled my other tripod order. __________________ Steve Tankless. Current Tank Info: 480g peninsula

12/07/2008, 06:33 PM	#42
BlueCorn Retired Join Date: May 2002 Posts: 32,908	If you don't want to break the bank, and don't mind a little extra weight, you could pick up a set of Manfrotto 190 series legs. That and a nice head would do fine. I love my Gitzo but a $650 tripod isn't for everyone. __________________ Doug [I]Dodging and burning are steps to take care of mistakes God made when establishing tonal relationships. ~ Ansel Adams[/I]

12/07/2008, 11:56 PM	#43
Jar*Head Premium Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Orange County, CA Posts: 8,630	Doug, why settle with something that you are not fully happy with . I am saving up for the Gitzo. Just like reefing, i don't want to keep on upgrade.... __________________ Steve Tankless. Current Tank Info: 480g peninsula

01/18/2009, 11:22 AM	#44
xtm Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Panorama City, CA Posts: 4,703	Doug, can you recommend a "budget" Manfrotto/ballhead setup from B&H? I don't mind if it's heavy, just looking for a stable and reliable setup. My camera/lens is about 5 lbs and I'm thinking at least 4 ft high would be ideal. Also, can I shoot in portrait orientation using a ballhead or do you guys suggest I buy an L-bracket? thanks __________________ Function before fashion Current Tank Info: 120g SPS Tank (48x24x24)

01/18/2009, 11:55 AM	#45
maddog10 Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Huntingtown, MD Posts: 24	One additional thing to consider when getting a tripod for aquarium photography is how reflective the legs are. Silver/aluminum can show in a photo if the lighting isn't just right. Consider black, grey, brown or dark green when shopping. I also strongly suggest you go to a store to try out the heads (or order from a store with good return policy). Some will just feel more comfortable than others. Make sure it has the features you are looking for and attach YOUR camera and lens to it while you try it in the shop. __________________ Michael Hill "I am not a photographer, but I play one on the Internet."

03/06/2009, 03:33 PM	#47
dendronepthya Premium Member Join Date: Oct 1999 Location: Akron, OH, USA Posts: 3,762	I just picked up my compact tripod kit. It consists of: Gitzo 1550T legs Markins Q3 Ball Head Really Right Stuff B2 LR II Clamp Pretty well made stuff compared to the $30 walmart tripod I used to use. __________________ - Than (dendro) Current Tank Info: 5000-gallon greenhouse system

03/06/2009, 03:34 PM	#48
BlueCorn Retired Join Date: May 2002 Posts: 32,908	I love my RRS gear. Did you get an L-Bracket too? __________________ Doug [I]Dodging and burning are steps to take care of mistakes God made when establishing tonal relationships. ~ Ansel Adams[/I]

03/08/2009, 09:45 PM	#49
dendronepthya Premium Member Join Date: Oct 1999 Location: Akron, OH, USA Posts: 3,762	I didn't pick up the L-bracket. The reviews I heard from others were very positive but I thought it would be just too bulky for my taste. Is it used primarily for portrait orientation? __________________ - Than (dendro) Current Tank Info: 5000-gallon greenhouse system

03/08/2009, 10:10 PM	#50
BlueCorn Retired Join Date: May 2002 Posts: 32,908	It's for both orientations. It also allows you to switch back and forth very quickly. Spend the extra money - you won't regret it. __________________ Doug [I]Dodging and burning are steps to take care of mistakes God made when establishing tonal relationships. ~ Ansel Adams[/I]