Tripod recommendations

Chris Moe · 05-21-2004, 04:47 PM

I just got my new camera (Digital Rebel) and I already see the need for a tripod. Was wondering what you all use and if anyone has any recommendations. Would like to keep the cost somewhat down, I'd be willing to go up to around $150 for the tripod and head if need be, maybe up to $200 if it's a kick ass setup.

Any suggestions, need more info? Let me know.

Cameron Yee · 05-24-2004, 10:48 AM

I have an extra, basic Bogen tripod I'm looking to sell.

http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htfo...ighlight=bogen

If you wanted to go better I would look for additional features like quick release leg clamps, leg spreaders and maybe something that goes a bit higher. Bogen is a good company to start with.

AjayM · 05-26-2004, 10:32 PM

I have to admit that I bought an ultra-cheap model from WalMart for around $20. However I must say that for quite a lot of tripod work it's gets the job done very well. It's super-light, but that can be a plus as it doesn't hinder my desire to carry it around. It is a little flimsy at times, but I work around that by using the remote shutter release on the camera (or the timer). I haven't used it in any kind of serious wind conditions, but during a fairly breezy day it still stands rock solid.

Certainly not a Bogen or Slik or anything fancy, but has all the major features.

Andrew

Kris McLaughlin · 05-27-2004, 11:07 AM

Andrew, I did the same thing. Mine is a Vivitar VPT-10 (It happens to be sitting right beside me), also from WalMart. I think it cost ~30$CDN, but it's been great.

Chris Moe · 05-27-2004, 11:15 AM

Thanks for the responses guys. I would still like some more recommendations though. I have been doing some research and I would like a quick release mount.

From your comments it looks like Bogen and Silk are a couple of manufactures to look into.

I am using a cheapie from my brother right now and really hate the thing. It's flimsy and the movement on the head is not at all smooth.

What are some of you using? What do you like about it and what don't you like about it? Also what did you pay for it?

**HTF Ads**

Cameron Yee · 05-27-2004, 11:47 AM

In regards to the head, if you just plan to take photographs you don't need a fluid head. However if you plan to use it for both video and photography the fluid head would be a good option. What I prefer, however, is to use a ball head for photography. This allows you to adjust the camera independent of the tripod, meaning you don't necessarily need the tripod to be level. Especially handy if you're working outside with uneven terrain. Just set up the legs close enough and make final adjustments with the head.

I have older versions of these:

3262QR Ball Head

3001N Tripod

3130 Mini Fluid Head

Cameron Yee · 05-27-2004, 11:58 AM

I picked up the fluid head and the tripod on eBay for around $90.00. It was missing the quick release plate, but it is the same plate used by the ball head.

The ball head I bought new some time ago for about $35.00. For a long time I used it with a Velbon video tripod that has a quick release plate of its own. The screw mount on the ball head accepts a 1/4" thread (along with the 3/8" that is used to mount it to Bogen tripods), so I just screwed the Velbon plate onto the ball head. Not the most elegant solution, but it allowed for double duty usage until I decided to pick up a Bogen tripod.

I also have an older version of this head (mentioned in my for sale post) which is actually very functional too. Not as instantaneously adjustable as a ball head, but it allows for the same degree of flexibility.

3025 3D Head

Cameron Yee · 05-27-2004, 12:11 PM

Sorry for the multiple posts, I just want to cover all your questions and don't seem to be getting them all the first time!

The only complaint I have about the tripod is the leg release using knobs. Quick release, clamping type I've found to be much more functional, especially if you need to set up quickly.

A slight complaint about the head is the position moves slightly when the knob gets tightened. Not a big deal generally, but if you're needing something more precise you'll probably have to pay more money.

The fluid head I've actually owned once before when I had a video camera. It was undersized for the particular camera I had, but it would do fine with any of the handheld models, but not shoulder mount.

JohnRice · 05-31-2004, 01:17 PM

I wouldn't get a fluid head for photography, I've never seen one with lateral adjustments, which is kind of a pain.

I've always liked Bogen legs and Gitzo heads personally, but tripods are more important to me than most casual photographers. Any camera store which sells Bogen should have Gitzo available as well.