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Tripod question
Aug 11, 2014 17:15:51   #
custodian Loc: New York
 
I have a vivitar VPT- 120 tripod, we originally got it for out camcorder, it ha the quick release the bubble lever thing, and the handle to move it side to side and he crank for up and down on the height. Question is will this be ok for my d5200 with just the kit lenses 18-55, and 55-300? I was looking at a targus one at target, or a monfrotto one at b est buy they r both under $100 which is good for me . I cant afford $300 for a really nice one right now, if I could spend that amount it would be on a better wide angle lens, any feed back will be helpful. Im gonna try my camera on this tripod tonight just to see how it does! Thanks!

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Aug 11, 2014 17:20:46   #
jdubu Loc: San Jose, CA
 
Trying it out with your camera combo will be the answer. If it holds to your satisfaction, no need to purchase a redundant piece of gear.

I am not familiar with the Nikon items you listed, being a Canon shooter, but if your 55-300 has a collar mounting ring, attach that to your tripod for better balance.

Another lens is probably in your future.

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Aug 11, 2014 18:09:05   #
lighthouse Loc: No Fixed Abode
 
I would not spend less than $100 on a brand new tripod.
You get what you pay for.
Monfrotto ... or Manfrotto?

custodian wrote:
I have a vivitar VPT- 120 tripod, we originally got it for out camcorder, it ha the quick release the bubble lever thing, and the handle to move it side to side and he crank for up and down on the height. Question is will this be ok for my d5200 with just the kit lenses 18-55, and 55-300? I was looking at a targus one at target, or a monfrotto one at b est buy they r both under $100 which is good for me . I cant afford $300 for a really nice one right now, if I could spend that amount it would be on a better wide angle lens, any feed back will be helpful. Im gonna try my camera on this tripod tonight just to see how it does! Thanks!
I have a vivitar VPT- 120 tripod, we originally go... (show quote)

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Aug 11, 2014 18:29:09   #
FredB Loc: A little below the Mason-Dixon line.
 
custodian wrote:
I have a vivitar VPT- 120 tripod, we originally got it for out camcorder, it ha the quick release the bubble lever thing, and the handle to move it side to side and he crank for up and down on the height.
I think you'll find that the pan head that you have now is not an optimal solution for a DSLR - a decent ball head is much easier and more efficient for a DSLR. And a gimbal head is better still when using a large tele lens or tracking things like birds in flight.

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Aug 11, 2014 18:45:56   #
MT Shooter Loc: Montana
 
custodian wrote:
I have a vivitar VPT- 120 tripod, we originally got it for out camcorder, it ha the quick release the bubble lever thing, and the handle to move it side to side and he crank for up and down on the height. Question is will this be ok for my d5200 with just the kit lenses 18-55, and 55-300? I was looking at a targus one at target, or a monfrotto one at b est buy they r both under $100 which is good for me . I cant afford $300 for a really nice one right now, if I could spend that amount it would be on a better wide angle lens, any feed back will be helpful. Im gonna try my camera on this tripod tonight just to see how it does! Thanks!
I have a vivitar VPT- 120 tripod, we originally go... (show quote)


Use what you have for now. Start a cookie jar bank and save for a GOOD tripod. You can buy a cheap one every year or two, but a GOOD one will last a lifetime.

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Aug 12, 2014 07:14:18   #
ras422 Loc: Virginia
 
I will second what MT SHOOTER said! Like many others I started out with a very inexpensive tripod/head combo then went on the recommendation of someone who teaches photography to get a manfrotto with a pistol grip. Of course at that time I could not imagine why anyone would spend so much for carbon tripod legs! Read Tom Hogan article on tripods and eventually ended up with a better set up that I am happy with. Take your time and be patient. A few dollars a day adds up nicely. Good luck. Rich

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Aug 12, 2014 09:56:39   #
camerapapi Loc: Miami, Fl.
 
custodian wrote:
I have a vivitar VPT- 120 tripod, we originally got it for out camcorder, it ha the quick release the bubble lever thing, and the handle to move it side to side and he crank for up and down on the height. Question is will this be ok for my d5200 with just the kit lenses 18-55, and 55-300? I was looking at a targus one at target, or a monfrotto one at b est buy they r both under $100 which is good for me . I cant afford $300 for a really nice one right now, if I could spend that amount it would be on a better wide angle lens, any feed back will be helpful. Im gonna try my camera on this tripod tonight just to see how it does! Thanks!
I have a vivitar VPT- 120 tripod, we originally go... (show quote)


When it comes to serious photography a tripod is usually the answer.
When it comes to tripods the best that you can afford is true.
Trying the tripod before buying is a great idea because it will give you hand on experience to figure out if the tripod is right for you and your type of photography.
I like Arca Swiss type clamps on tripods and L-clamps in camera. Those make my life more comfortable when photographing in the field.
Do not overlook the second hand market. Good deals are there just for the taking and finally keep in mind that aluminum will always be cheaper than carbon fiber.

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Aug 12, 2014 10:06:34   #
skiman Loc: Ventura, CA
 
custodian wrote:
I have a vivitar VPT- 120 tripod, we originally got it for out camcorder, it ha the quick release the bubble lever thing, and the handle to move it side to side and he crank for up and down on the height. Question is will this be ok for my d5200 with just the kit lenses 18-55, and 55-300? I was looking at a targus one at target, or a monfrotto one at b est buy they r both under $100 which is good for me . I cant afford $300 for a really nice one right now, if I could spend that amount it would be on a better wide angle lens, any feed back will be helpful. Im gonna try my camera on this tripod tonight just to see how it does! Thanks!
I have a vivitar VPT- 120 tripod, we originally go... (show quote)


Check this one out, I have the carbon fiber one that I got for $199 on sale and love it. Very stable and lots of features.

http://m.costco.com/Dolica-Ultra-Premium-65%22-Professional-Tripod-with-Detachable-Monopod.product.100118974.html

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