Ugly Hedgehog - Photography Forum
Home Active Topics Newest Pictures Search Login Register
Main Photography Discussion
Sorry JR1
Page 1 of 3 next> last>>
Apr 3, 2013 17:11:14   #
Big Stopper Loc: London
 
I promise I tried using the search section first!!!

I have a really old crappy tripod and want to upgrade it.

- I want just one tripod
- It's for occasional outdoor use
- It must be light
- It must be robust
- Max weight will be a Canon 50d plus Sigma 150-500
- Cost is a factor - so least expensive options but willing to pay for quality as I don't want to upgrade later on.

By the way, I need a tripod and head.

Hope that all makes sense.

Thanks, Bob

Reply
Apr 3, 2013 17:18:40   #
mdorn Loc: Portland, OR
 
bobbybob wrote:
I promise I tried using the search section first!!!

I have a really old crappy tripod and want to upgrade it.

- I want just one tripod
- It's for occasional outdoor use
- It must be light
- It must be robust
- Max weight will be a Canon 50d plus Sigma 150-500
- Cost is a factor - so least expensive options but willing to pay for quality as I don't want to upgrade later on.

By the way, I need a tripod and head.

Hope that all makes sense.

Thanks, Bob
I promise I tried using the search section first!!... (show quote)


I wouldn't apologize for the search function of this forum---it's pathetic. This is one small reason many topics resurface after a couple months.

Sounds like you want the advice of JR1, so I won't recommend a tripod for you. Good luck.

Reply
Apr 3, 2013 17:30:51   #
rpavich Loc: West Virginia
 
bobbybob wrote:

- It must be light
- It must be robust
- Cost is a factor - so least expensive options but willing to pay for quality as I don't want to upgrade later on.



I hate to point this out but "light" and "robust" and "low cost" aren't words that go together when speaking about tripods...I know I've cheaped out more than once and then realized that I can't keep doing it.

I finally bought a "middle of the road" tripod that's pretty beefy. Not light but it doesn't jiggle and I have confidence that my camera won't fall off of it onto the pavement (don't ask how I know)

I paid 120 for the head and 140 for the legs...and that's not expensive.

I bought a Vanguard tripod and head. Very nice, versatile, and sturdy.

Reply
 
 
Apr 3, 2013 17:31:26   #
Big Stopper Loc: London
 
mdorn wrote:
I wouldn't apologize for the search function of this forum---it's pathetic. This is one small reason many topics resurface after a couple months.

Sounds like you want the advice of JR1, so I won't recommend a tripod for you. Good luck.



This wasn't actually directed at JR1 though I'd appreciate his input as he has a huge amount of knowledge. I'm sure that there are many here who can offer good advice. I've seen many of your posts and photos (mdorn) and would appreciate your opinion. Thanks, Bob

Reply
Apr 3, 2013 17:34:10   #
pigpen
 
I always laugh when someone says, "use the search function." If everybody followed this, there wouldn't even be a forum. Besides, someone new that didn't weigh in on the other posts, may chime in with good advice.

There are many tripods to choose from, the only advice I can give on that is "you get what you pay for." However, Manfrotto makes an affordable gimbal head that is very sturdy, for around $175. Once you get things set, you can let go of the camera and it stays perfectly balanced right where you leave it. There are probably better ones, but at a much higher price.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?atclk=Brand_Manfrotto&sts=ma&N=4289361368&Ntt=gimbal+head " rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?atclk=Brand_Manfrotto&sts=ma&N=4289361368&Ntt=gimbal+head

Reply
Apr 3, 2013 19:18:39   #
mdorn Loc: Portland, OR
 
bobbybob wrote:
This wasn't actually directed at JR1 though I'd appreciate his input as he has a huge amount of knowledge. I'm sure that there are many here who can offer good advice. I've seen many of your posts and photos (mdorn) and would appreciate your opinion. Thanks, Bob


Okay... well my opinion on tripods is similar to rpavich. I purchased a middle of the road tripod that is probably heavier than most. I use it maybe 30% of the time, so it fits my needs---It's a Manfrotto brand that I bought at Costco for about $180. For long vertical hikes, I use a cheap ($50) lightweight tripod. Yes, my equipment is in danger, but I'm willing to accept the risk tradeoff. Thank you for the viewing some of my shots and respecting my opinion.

Reply
Apr 3, 2013 19:32:52   #
RaydancePhoto
 
I got a Triopo tripod a while back and think it would fit your bill and budget. It is rated at 5.5 Kg, Not very heavy and very steady, made of titanium alloy. I paid about 80.00 with a ball head.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Triopo-C-258-KJ-2-Tripod-Set-metal-spikes-max-height-150cm-capacity-5-5kg-/111037468138?pt=UK_Tripods_Monopods&hash=item19da594dea

Reply
 
 
Apr 4, 2013 02:52:02   #
Big Stopper Loc: London
 
rpavich wrote:
I hate to point this out but "light" and "robust" and "low cost" aren't words that go together when speaking about tripods.


My apologies for not being a bit clearer. I didn't mean to imply "cheap" which is why I said "least expensive", after all, if you buy the least expensive Ferrari cost may have been a factor which is why you didn't buy a more expensive Ferrari but you have still bought a Ferrari - which isn't cheap. What I'm saying is that I don't won't to spend £4000 if £400 will get me a decent bit of gear.

Hope that helps, thanks, Bob

Reply
Apr 4, 2013 03:09:24   #
craggycrossers Loc: Robin Hood Country, UK
 
bobbybob wrote:
I promise I tried using the search section first!!!

I have a really old crappy tripod and want to upgrade it.

- I want just one tripod
- It's for occasional outdoor use
- It must be light
- It must be robust
- Max weight will be a Canon 50d plus Sigma 150-500
- Cost is a factor - so least expensive options but willing to pay for quality as I don't want to upgrade later on.

By the way, I need a tripod and head.

Hope that all makes sense.

Thanks, Bob
I promise I tried using the search section first!!... (show quote)


Bobbybob - if you are in London, England, then I suggest you take a look at these two products.

http://www.redsnapperuk.com/ - this company does not have the name, resources or reputation of a "big boy" such as Manfrotto. However its tripods and heads are solid, well-built, do the job as it's intended, and cost substantially less than the "big boys". Take a good look at the website and read the reviews and blog. I have this product and attach one photo to give you an idea.

If you're interested in a gimbal head then look at the Lensmaster RH-2 here - http://www.lensmaster.co.uk/index.htm - I bought this product on the recommendation of JR1 and wholeheartedly endorse it.

There really is no need to be swayed by the marketing hype of the "big boys". Both these products are perfectly adequate at much more competitive prices.

Redsnapper tripod + ball head
Redsnapper tripod + ball head...

Reply
Apr 4, 2013 03:55:33   #
Big Stopper Loc: London
 
craggycrossers wrote:
Bobbybob - if you are in London, England, then I suggest you take a look at these two products.

http://www.redsnapperuk.com/ - this company does not have the name, resources or reputation of a "big boy" such as Manfrotto. However its tripods and heads are solid, well-built, do the job as it's intended, and cost substantially less than the "big boys". Take a good look at the website and read the reviews and blog. I have this product and attach one photo to give you an idea.

If you're interested in a gimbal head then look at the Lensmaster RH-2 here - http://www.lensmaster.co.uk/index.htm - I bought this product on the recommendation of JR1 and wholeheartedly endorse it.

There really is no need to be swayed by the marketing hype of the "big boys". Both these products are perfectly adequate at much more competitive prices.
Bobbybob - if you are in London, England, then I s... (show quote)


Thanks craggycrossers. Yes, I am in England London. I've had a quick look at Redsnapper and it looks good. Got to dash off to work now so will have a proper browse later on. At the moment I have no idea about heads and can be persuaded either way. I'm looking to do some macro photography in the future so that may be a consideration. Thanks again, Bob

Reply
Apr 4, 2013 04:31:27   #
JR1 Loc: Tavistock, Devon, UK
 
Personally I have four pods, a lightweight Manfrotto junior 18 years old non removable head, NOT suitable for you, Giottos mtl9271b and Manfrotto 055xprob, the Manfrotto I bought because I broke the leg clip on the Giottos and needed a pod that day, it is very good BUT not as stable as the Giottos.

You KNOW what heads I use, Lensmaster gimbals, and many here have bought them, though I sometimes use my Giottos mh5001 pan tiltwhich is surdy, and very fluid, and the Manfrotto 496 Compact Ball Head

Reply
 
 
Apr 4, 2013 04:35:17   #
JR1 Loc: Tavistock, Devon, UK
 
LOOK here

http://www.canadiannaturephotographer.com/tripod.html

Reply
Apr 4, 2013 06:25:27   #
mikemilton
 
bobbybob wrote:
I promise I tried using the search section first!!!

I have a really old crappy tripod and want to upgrade it.

- I want just one tripod
- It's for occasional outdoor use
- It must be light
- It must be robust
- Max weight will be a Canon 50d plus Sigma 150-500
- Cost is a factor - so least expensive options but willing to pay for quality as I don't want to upgrade later on.

By the way, I need a tripod and head.

Hope that all makes sense.

Thanks, Bob
I promise I tried using the search section first!!... (show quote)


It is a good question and, as already said, the point is to have discussion so great that you asked. If nothing else, there are always new solutions to hear about.

You really do have a list of mutually exclusive requirements. I've never seen a light modest priced tripod that is anywhere near steady enough for a long lens or heavier gear. I have a massive manfrotto that was under 1K (with head) that is steady and a Gitzo that is light (but much less solid) that was about 1200 (with head)

The gitzo is fine if it isn't windy and one used a cable release and shutter lockup.

So, here is a question. Do you really need a tripod?

I ask this because you may well want to be able to set up a fixed platform and make adjustments (like tilts or shifts and so on) or you may just want something to steady the shot.

Depending on your answer, her is just another thought to consider. If you are going to compromise anyway, perhaps another aproach is worth reflecting on.

I also have 2 monopods which were relatively cheap, are lighter, easy to carry, and effective. With a monopod, your two legs are added to make a tripod and this works well. Just lean into it.

One of my monopods is a robust Manfrotto which telescopes down to about 24 inches and can be tucked in a pack. You can really lean on it to get a steady shot.

The other is a gitzo walking stick with a mount on top. It is less robust, but is actually useful on a trek rather than a burden.

Reply
Apr 4, 2013 06:58:23   #
BboH Loc: s of 2/21, Ellicott City, MD
 
rpavich wrote:
I hate to point this out but "light" and "robust" and "low cost" aren't words that go together when speaking about tripods...I know I've cheaped out more than once and then realized that I can't keep doing it.

I finally bought a "middle of the road" tripod that's pretty beefy. Not light but it doesn't jiggle and I have confidence that my camera won't fall off of it onto the pavement (don't ask how I know)

I paid 120 for the head and 140 for the legs...and that's not expensive.

I bought a Vanguard tripod and head. Very nice, versatile, and sturdy.
I hate to point this out but "light" and... (show quote)


I just bought a Vanguard because it cost $159.00 and the center post will reset to horizontal. I bought it from the store I buy most all of my stuff from and the salesman knowes exactly what I have - as such I trust that I can have confidence in it. Told him I wanted it to get to ground level to shoot the flowers I've got growing. Caveat - we were talking about my D800 with the Nikon 105mm Macro...

Reply
Apr 4, 2013 07:42:17   #
SR71BLACKBIRD
 
Go hear for a Pro's advice on picking a tripod:

http://www.sansmirror.com/articles/how-much-tripod-do-you-need.html


bobbybob wrote:
I promise I tried using the search section first!!!

I have a really old crappy tripod and want to upgrade it.

- I want just one tripod
- It's for occasional outdoor use
- It must be light
- It must be robust
- Max weight will be a Canon 50d plus Sigma 150-500
- Cost is a factor - so least expensive options but willing to pay for quality as I don't want to upgrade later on.

By the way, I need a tripod and head.

Hope that all makes sense.

Thanks, Bob
I promise I tried using the search section first!!... (show quote)

Reply
Page 1 of 3 next> last>>
If you want to reply, then register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.
Main Photography Discussion
UglyHedgehog.com - Forum
Copyright 2011-2024 Ugly Hedgehog, Inc.