Galaxy Loc: Northeastern Michigan

Hello fellow Hoggers,

I've been searching and reading all the information here and everywhere else that I can find on purchasing a tri-pod and ball head that will fit my needs without over killing it too much and I think I have found at least the tri-pod legs. In the reading I've done here the consensus seems to be to buy the best you can afford and I generally adhere to that but I just don't to buy way more than I will use.

I have a Canon 70D with these Canon lenses. EF 50mm f/1.4 USM, EFS 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS STM and a EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM. I’m basically a hobby photographer learning all the time especially here! The types of shooting I do currently are a little of everything but grandkids, wildlife, and birds, are pretty much at the top of my list. I am also interested in macro photography but that’s another lens to do it right so it will come a little later.

I have pretty much made up my mind to get this new 055 series carbon fiber Manfrotto.[url]http://www.manfrotto.com/product/8374.58969.1079729.0.0/MT055CXPRO3/_/055_carbon_fibre_3-section_tripod%2C_with_horizontal_column[url] I know it’s a brand new style that won’t be released until 3/15 so no has one yet but if you follow the link you can take a look at it. The maximum height with the center column down is 140cm (55.1 inches) plus about a 4 inch or so ball head (yet to be determined) plus 3.1 inches to my viewfinder should put the viewfinder with camera mounted on this tripod at about 62.2 inches (157.8cm). I’m 70 inches (177.8cm) tall so that minus 5 inches (12.7cm) puts my eye level at 65 inches (165.1cm). That should allow me to do most of any shooting I will do without raising the center column which adds to the tri-pods stability I’ve read.

The questions I have are as follows:
1. Do you feel I’m over buying on the tri-pod legs for the type of shooting I will be doing?
2. Do you feel I’m over buying on the tri-pod legs for the type of photographer I am which is just slightly better than “rank amateur”? Hopefully with your help and lots of practice that will improve!

I’m sorry this turned out to be such a long post but I do very much value your knowledge and expertise. If you have any suggestions or help you could offer on my choice it would be greatly appreciated.

P.S. Ball head choice is next so input on a ball head that will support a Canon 70D w/100 to 400mm L or 70-200mm L glass would help also!

Thank you for your time,
Mark

MT Shooter Loc: Montana

Having not seen the new design yet, I have to believe it will be very good based on my Manfrotto experience. I have used Bogen/Manfrotto tripods since 1982, I still have an use that very first 3021 and its still every bit as stable as it was over 30 years ago.
If you have the money for the new carbon fiber design, it is sure to please you. But for the money, the 055XPROB is hard to resist. A pound heavier, but taller and 1/3 the price. Either way, if you are looking for a ball head, I recommend the 498RC2 as it is taller than the 496RC2 model, as well as adds a separate panning control so you can pan the head without releasing the ball.
Good luck.

Galaxy Loc: Northeastern Michigan

MT Shooter
Thanks for the reply. I had taken a very strong look at the 055XPROB and until I saw the new MTO55XPRO3 that would have been my pick. The new version has some new features such as new leg-locking levers. The new "Quick Power Lock" system applies significantly increased locking power to the leg section cuffs, making the tripod much stiffer. It also has a 19.8 maximum load capacity which is 4.4 lbs. more than the 055XPROB. An "Easy Link Attachment" which allows you to attach accessories such as a LED light directly to the tri-pod. There are a few other changes as well. But your point is very well taken. Are these things worth an extra $310? I know what my wife would say! Make that $320 because I'd have to pay the UPS driver $10 to not deliver it when she's home! Thanks again for your input. I'll check on the ball head you recommended also. It is nice to know that you have had a good experience with Manfrotto's tri-pods. I've attached a PDF of the new 055 series for your perusal.

New 055 Collection PDF
Attached file:
(Download)

roykidd44

one can buy a short center column to shorten the the tripod for macro and extension tubes and would let you take very good close ups for the same reason ,cheap. I have a very expensive macro lens and find i use my zooms and extension tubes more because i frequently shoot in public places where they don't want me to walk in their flowerbeds , the smaller tubes allows some setback from the target yet allows very close up look!

roykidd44

oh also I am a 055xprob user never been sorry the tripod is heavier but i'm a big guy and its much cheaper. I used a very inexpensive ball head for a while and went back to the three way head for the added purpose of panos glad to hear about the other ball head.

Chris Knight Loc: Ayden, nc

I have to 055XPROB. I have dragged it out to remote locations to shoot water fowl. It is sturdy and fairly light. The carbon fiber version may be lighter but is still going to be bulky if you are carrying it with you. I think the aluminum version is good for basic shooting. I am probably going use my manfrotto monopod with an adjustable mount next time I going the woods as I am not getting any younger.

liv2paddle Loc: Wall, NJ

Look at the vanguard ballheads too..I have several bought on amazon..excellent!

Chris Knight Loc: Ayden, nc

I have them too...excellent choice.

MT Shooter Loc: Montana

The biggest issue with Vanguard plates is their proprietary QR plates that do not interchange with anything else. And no aftermarket compatibles. But their heads themselves are pretty good for the money.

Cdouthitt Loc: Traverse City, MI

I have a manfrotto tripod...190procx3, great, but pricey at the time I bought it...I think the one you're looking at is nice too...especially the one that allows add on extensions...I could see that coming in handy.

As to ball heads I really like my acratech Gp-s. It did a really nice job holding my old E-5 and 135-400 plus 1.4x rock solid. Now my setup is way overkill for my smaller lighter camera gear, but oh well.

olcoach Loc: Oregon

Just be sure your tripod and legs keep your gear safe. Buying cheap tripod and head after buying expensive tools makes no sense.

davidrb Loc: Half way there on the 45th Parallel

[quote=Galaxy]Hello fellow Hoggers,

I've been searching and reading all the information here and everywhere else that I can find on purchasing a tri-pod and ball head that will fit my needs without over killing it too much and I think I have found at least the tri-pod legs. In the reading I've done here the consensus seems to be to buy the best you can afford and I generally adhere to that but I just don't to buy way more than I will use.

I have a Canon 70D with these Canon lenses. EF 50mm f/1.4 USM, EFS 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS STM and a EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM. I’m basically a hobby photographer learning all the time especially here! The types of shooting I do currently are a little of everything but grandkids, wildlife, and birds, are pretty much at the top of my list. I am also interested in macro photography but that’s another lens to do it right so it will come a little later.

I have pretty much made up my mind to get this new 055 series carbon fiber Manfrotto.[url]http://www.manfrotto.com/product/8374.58969.1079729.0.0/MT055CXPRO3/_/055_carbon_fibre_3-section_tripod%2C_with_horizontal_column[url] I know it’s a brand new style that won’t be released until 3/15 so no has one yet but if you follow the link you can take a look at it. The maximum height with the center column down is 140cm (55.1 inches) plus about a 4 inch or so ball head (yet to be determined) plus 3.1 inches to my viewfinder should put the viewfinder with camera mounted on this tripod at about 62.2 inches (157.8cm). I’m 70 inches (177.8cm) tall so that minus 5 inches (12.7cm) puts my eye level at 65 inches (165.1cm). That should allow me to do most of any shooting I will do without raising the center column which adds to the tri-pods stability I’ve read.

The questions I have are as follows:
1. Do you feel I’m over buying on the tri-pod legs for the type of shooting I will be doing?
2. Do you feel I’m over buying on the tri-pod legs for the type of photographer I am which is just slightly better than “rank amateur”? Hopefully with your help and lots of practice that will improve!

I’m sorry this turned out to be such a long post but I do very much value your knowledge and expertise. If you have any suggestions or help you could offer on my choice it would be greatly appreciated.

P.S. Ball head choice is next so input on a ball head that will support a Canon 70D w/100 to 400mm L or 70-200mm L glass would help also!

Thank you for your time,
Mark[/quote]

I have never known a photographer who lightened the load of his/her tripod-mounted rig. Most folks keep getting heavier and heavier. Very few grow into a light-weight tripod. You are on your way to shooting what will become tripod situations. Be prepared for potential progression into the three area you mentioned. Birds and landscapes will require tripod/monopod usage. You will not want a tripod that you will outgrow. If you are contemplating using big lenses, and you mentioned one in specific, you will want a very sturdy tripod and head. Yes, you can over-buy, but unless it's built by Kaboto don't worry. Remember the value of the equipment you are trusting this thing to support! Your camera and your lens are both important and valuable. Why put them on a cut-rate tripod?

Gene51 Loc: Yonkers, NY, now in LSD (LowerSlowerDelaware)

You can't overbuy a tripod or ball head. Avoid any tripod with an extendable center column. Consider the industry leaders for ballheads - Arca Swiss, Markins, Really Right Stuff, Kirk, Acratech. The last thing you want is a ballhead that does not operate smoothly or worse, breaks and drops your camera and lens. The difference between a crappy ballhead and a premium quality one is often about $100. if you are looking at heads that cost less than $200,then re-read the previous sentence. For your purposes, consider spending about $300 or more on a tripod. Carbon fiber will cost more, but it will be lighter, which can justify the extra cost. Do not settle for the $200 "complete" package - you will only replace it several times before you get the one that you should have gotten because what you bought does not really serve your purposes.

juicesqueezer Loc: Okeechobee, Florida

I also have the Manfrotto/Bogen 3021 and it is rock solid. I stand 6' and can look straight into the view finder without stooping and no center column raised. Very sturdy tripod.
I took MTShooter recommendations and purchased the Manfrotto 681 Monopod as well. Very happy and kept a lot more of my money!

hj Loc: Florida

I am probably in the minority on the subject of a ball head. Purchased one, used it for a short while and finally sold it on eBay. Replaced it with a Pan-n-tilt head which I absolutely love for my type of photography - mostly soccer. I guess it comes down to what is comfortable for you. Just don't automatically assume a ball head is the best support in every case. It wasn't for me.