Tripod Load-bearing Spec./Maximum Lens Size
Apr 8, 2013 08:29:35 #
Can anyone explain why a Gitzo tripod (or any tripod for that matter) would have a substantial load-bearing spec., but fairly small lens size restriction?
For example: "The [Gitzo] GT2542 is ideal for use with DSLRs with 200mm lenses (up to a 300mm maximum), lightweight camcorders, and spotting scopes. It offers an excellent load capacity rating of 26.4 lbs...."
Can it be because the front weight of a longer lens would tend to tip the tropod over? And would this problem be solved by using a gimbal mount(because of front to back weight equalization?) Or is there some equipment/load-bearing ratio recommendation that I don't know about? A 500mm lens with a light gimbal mount (lensmaster for example) and camera would probably not equal 15 pounds. Thanks!
For example: "The [Gitzo] GT2542 is ideal for use with DSLRs with 200mm lenses (up to a 300mm maximum), lightweight camcorders, and spotting scopes. It offers an excellent load capacity rating of 26.4 lbs...."
Can it be because the front weight of a longer lens would tend to tip the tropod over? And would this problem be solved by using a gimbal mount(because of front to back weight equalization?) Or is there some equipment/load-bearing ratio recommendation that I don't know about? A 500mm lens with a light gimbal mount (lensmaster for example) and camera would probably not equal 15 pounds. Thanks!
Apr 8, 2013 08:31:38 #
You have answered your own question.
I use a Giottos who's legs open wider than the Manfrotto I have I would not use the 500 on the Manfrotto as it becomes more unstable due to the legs not opening just 8" more at the base
Because the centre of the camera can be move forward and back in a gimbal of any make to "counterbalance" the setup it is seriously better
You have in fact struck a post that I have never seen here before, counterbalance and tripods/heads, I think of it every time I setup my gear, like changing gear it comes naturally.
I use a Giottos who's legs open wider than the Manfrotto I have I would not use the 500 on the Manfrotto as it becomes more unstable due to the legs not opening just 8" more at the base
Because the centre of the camera can be move forward and back in a gimbal of any make to "counterbalance" the setup it is seriously better
You have in fact struck a post that I have never seen here before, counterbalance and tripods/heads, I think of it every time I setup my gear, like changing gear it comes naturally.
Apr 8, 2013 08:35:17 #
Apr 8, 2013 11:13:58 #
Thanks, JR1. It was one of your posts that led me to Giottos (and Lensmaster). I think your tripod post consisted of just one word, actually. "Giottos." I like the 8361. And the Induro CT213.
Apr 8, 2013 11:17:06 #
I can offer NO comments on Induro as I have never tried one, IF I had spare cash I would get a Gitzo, but I will never be parted from my giottos, in fact, it was Mr Lensmaster :) :) who uses a Giottos who suggested them to ME.
I actually have three tripods, Giottos 9271b, Manfrotto 055XPROb and Unilok 1700
The Manfrotto, same price doesn't compare with the Giottos for stability, the Unilok will last a lifetime.
I actually have three tripods, Giottos 9271b, Manfrotto 055XPROb and Unilok 1700
The Manfrotto, same price doesn't compare with the Giottos for stability, the Unilok will last a lifetime.
Apr 9, 2013 11:48:30 #
I have a Heavy Duty Carbon Fiber Tripod and My shooting partner has a Manfrutto that is a little lighter.
He uses a Wimberly Full Gimbal and seems to like it and feels stable. I have tried his out and it is very nice.
I bought a Model 575T Pro Photo Camera Carbon Fiber #8
It weighs a little more and is very stable also rated at 26.5 lbs.
My Opteka GH-1Gimbal head is rated at 30 lbs. I shoot with a 7D using a battery pack + my extender with 70-200mm 2.8L IS USM lens & a 300mm 4.0L IS USM lens and it works just fine.
The heaviest Canon lens I would use goes to about 11.5 - 12 lbs + my camera.
I can not imagine that I would need any more than what I have even in a strong wind.
The Legs on this tripod can open as far as I need them to. So it feels very stable and solid and safe.
Better be clear as what your going to want to use on this gear before you invest. I wouldn't want to see my Camera and lens on the ground in pieces.
Best of luck choosing the one that is right for you.
He uses a Wimberly Full Gimbal and seems to like it and feels stable. I have tried his out and it is very nice.
I bought a Model 575T Pro Photo Camera Carbon Fiber #8
It weighs a little more and is very stable also rated at 26.5 lbs.
My Opteka GH-1Gimbal head is rated at 30 lbs. I shoot with a 7D using a battery pack + my extender with 70-200mm 2.8L IS USM lens & a 300mm 4.0L IS USM lens and it works just fine.
The heaviest Canon lens I would use goes to about 11.5 - 12 lbs + my camera.
I can not imagine that I would need any more than what I have even in a strong wind.
The Legs on this tripod can open as far as I need them to. So it feels very stable and solid and safe.
Better be clear as what your going to want to use on this gear before you invest. I wouldn't want to see my Camera and lens on the ground in pieces.
Best of luck choosing the one that is right for you.
Apr 9, 2013 14:25:17 #
Hi James. I bought the Beike BK-45 on EBay. Same as your Opteka? I went with the Giottos 8361. Not as heavy as yours, but I expect it to handle the lenses I have/anticipate having. Time will tell. Thanks for posting.
Apr 9, 2013 15:52:49 #
Congratulations!
I believe the Beike BK-45 makes the Opteka GH1.
However, the load capacity may be different. Either way MT speaks highly of his Beike so there you go.
Sounds like your tripod is just fine. My shooting partner pointed out that most of the load specs are on the conservative side so here again it's what makes you happy.
You're going to love the control you have with flying birds. It really puts the fun into Photography.
Looking forward to seeing your NEW results!
Thanks for responding.
I believe the Beike BK-45 makes the Opteka GH1.
However, the load capacity may be different. Either way MT speaks highly of his Beike so there you go.
Sounds like your tripod is just fine. My shooting partner pointed out that most of the load specs are on the conservative side so here again it's what makes you happy.
You're going to love the control you have with flying birds. It really puts the fun into Photography.
Looking forward to seeing your NEW results!
Thanks for responding.
Apr 10, 2013 05:58:00 #
Of course there are many other factors to consider when looking at tripods, not least the legs.
Here you see a Giottos side by side with a Manfrotto (types listed earlier), not that even though they are at identical heights, the manfrotto has to rely on more of the smaller legs in use making it less stable/rigid.
Also another reason why I chose not to use CF is durability, yes I know what you will say but, my tripods have been in the sea, under the sea, down a cliff in fact I wouldn't want to use CF for that reason.
Also don't forget that the thickness of the legs and the size and quantity of sections makes a difference, whilst I would never dream of carrying my Unilok miles for landscapes it has sealed legs that can be immersed in water
Here you see a Giottos side by side with a Manfrotto (types listed earlier), not that even though they are at identical heights, the manfrotto has to rely on more of the smaller legs in use making it less stable/rigid.
Also another reason why I chose not to use CF is durability, yes I know what you will say but, my tripods have been in the sea, under the sea, down a cliff in fact I wouldn't want to use CF for that reason.
Also don't forget that the thickness of the legs and the size and quantity of sections makes a difference, whilst I would never dream of carrying my Unilok miles for landscapes it has sealed legs that can be immersed in water
Apr 10, 2013 13:24:01 #
JR1 wrote:
Of course there are many other factors to consider... (show quote)
It was an interesting search, since practically all of it was theoretical, wanting a popular, well thought-of tripod, light, flexible, well-designed and not priced over the top. I think I reached a good overall compromise in the Giottos 8163. It's a decent choice, the best I could probably do without benefit of experiece. And thank you for your helpful input. At some point maybe I might even learn that I'm wrong in thinking Gitzos are over-priced and over-hyped. You probably have to own one and feel that "joy of use" to really understand why they're considered among the very best.
Apr 10, 2013 13:53:48 #
" I think I reached a good overall compromise "
THAT is 100% accurate, and that is why I have 4 tripods, isn't EVERY camera bought, every tripod every lens a compromise, NONE are 100% everything and perfect
THAT is 100% accurate, and that is why I have 4 tripods, isn't EVERY camera bought, every tripod every lens a compromise, NONE are 100% everything and perfect
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