Most non-handicapped people do not need a gimbal for a 4 or 5 lb. lens .....6-10 lb. lenses yes. One of the larger attractions of a 5 lb. and under lens is that it CAN be mobile for most people with a monopod or bodypod instead of immobile with a tripod/gimbal ! Mobility allows you to pursue subjects, get closer and select foregrounds/backrounds and lighting angles.
The tripod I use is a Zomei Q666c carbon fiber 5 section carbon fiber travel unit. I use it with a Sony A6000 with a 210mm telephoto lens without problems. I do use the remote on the Sony though. I can't imagine anyone having problems with that camera or using 5100 either. Heavier cameras with bigger and heavier telephoto lenses maybe. I bought it mostly because it is light, sturdy, affordable, compact and breaks down into a mono pod as well. With the quality and price of this unit it is a no brainer purchase as far as I am concerned.
Bogin Bob wrote:
I have learned (from mistakes) the importance of a tripod in certain situations. Since I probably could use a tripod in one in ten photo shoots, I would be interested in the UHH members recommendation for one under $200. I would like to keep weight under 5 pounds. I do not use long telephoto lenses or heavy weight lens on my Nikon D5100 or A6000. I assume a basic ball head is best over swivel/pan head. A group member suggested Slik tripods.
Recommendations requested.
Thank you.
I've had two excellent and inexpensive Dolica. I gave my aluminum tripod to my daughter and regularly use the carbon Dolica. They both came with ball heads. I prefer a pan-tilt and purchase one for the carbon. It actually weighs less than the ball head.
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