That is entirely up to your, but if I absolutely wanted a mirrorless camera, I'd probably go with the Sony A series body. I say this because I know several people that own the A6000 and love it. But I'm still not sold on mirrorless because I don't care to hold a camera away from my face at arms length to view an LCD to compose my shot and the viewfinders are weird and slow. I'm sure that technology will eventually catch up to my needs for a mirrorless camera, but they have not done so yet. Yes, the sensors are fine, I don't like the viewfinder. Also, saving a few ounces isn't really going to make that much difference to me. If I had shoulder problems or worse back problems than I already have, I may be forced to go with a camera that is as light as possible. Already cell phone cameras are pretty good and to be sure, way better than they were 5 years ago. So the technology is changing very fast.

Greetings:

I have narrowed my tripod search to two choices (I think). I have combed the archives here, and don't see much about these two specific models, so I thought I would ask if any of you use either of these, and if you do, how you might feel about them. I want the tripod for both indoor and outdoor use, though its primary use will be indoors with some macro and product-style shooting, and maybe a portrait from time to time. Here are the two models I'm considering:
Vanguard Alta Pro 264AB
Manfrotto MK290XTA3-BHUS 290 Xtra Ball Head Kit

I am attracted to the flexibility of the Vanguard, but I don't really know the quality of their products. I am well-familiar with the Manfrotto name, and have thought they produced high-quality equipment, though I have read some reviews that lead me to believe their most recent products might not have the same quality they used to have?

Needless to say, if you think I'm way off on both of these choices and have a better idea, I'm all ears. I'd prefer not to go over $200, but I'm flexible with that, if it's really worth it.

Thanks for your help!

B&H has always been above the rest in product knowledge. When I was looking for a photography backpack, I called B & H. I had been looking on their website and just couldn't find exactly what I wanted. Two camera storage with lenses on, extra room for lenses and other "junk" necessary (IMO) to have a fun time making photos. The rep, Mike, immediately referred me to a backpack that I never saw online. It was perfect. Better than that, it wasn't nearly as expensive as the others I had been looking at. I ordered that puppy right away. It has been in service a long time and that backpack is so perfect. My equipment is always in it. I also purchased a smaller backpack that holds slightly less, and is lighter. Both have serviced my needs expertly. I stick with B & H exclusively because they know the business better than anyone.

This topic comes up frequently. So, I'm posting this so I can reference it in my pages, when the topic comes up again. So, here's the one I've been using for the last 5 years. I carry this with me 95% of the time. If I leave my place, it is usually with me. It carries most everything I need on a daily basis.

My Nikon F is standing in for the D700 in the photos.

Pros:
Light weight
Durable
Under $40
Washable
Fits under an aeroplane seat (carry on)
Doesn't have an expensive looking label that says Expensive Camera Gear Inside.


Cons:
If you think you need a house trailer for the equipment you carry daily, this isn't it.

It's a Condor Tactical Response Bag.

Can be purchased from:
Allied Surplus in the Phoenix, AZ. area - alliedsurplus.com/
You may have to call and speak with them, as this item doesn't always appear on their site.

Or from Condor Tactical - www.condoroutdoor.com/Condor-136.aspx


Disclaimer: I neither work for nor represent either of the two companies listed in this post. I do support, through purchases, Allied Surplus, as they are a great bunch of folks with whom to do business.

--Bob