I just got back from a camping trip on a lake where I did quite a bit of video. People had horses in the water and often the action started without warning. I was trying to capture it on video, but by the time I could level the camera on the tripod by fiddling with the legs and the bubble level, (very important because you can see the horizon), it would be too late and I would miss the action. I have quite a bit of footage with sometimes dramatically tilted horizons.
I am looking for a tripod that would self level and do it quickly. And of course, cost is a big consideration.
Any suggestions?
I don't know of a self-leveling tripod at all, but the one I use is the next best thing. Its the Manfrotto 058B Triault, it sets up all 3 legs simultaneously with the press of one lever. The top has a spirit level so you just hold the leg lever and adjust until the bubble is centered and release the lever, all 3 legs will lock in that position. Each legs has a second lever to adjust that respective leg individually should you have to "fine-tune" the level after mounting the camera.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&sku=554073&is=REG&A=details&Q=
Thank you. That sounds good. I often only have a couple of seconds before the action has stopped and was thinking along the lines of a gyroscope or my dad suggested gimble rings. Ill look into this tripod, Im sure it would be a big improvement!
LoisCroft wrote:
I just got back from a camping trip on a lake where I did quite a bit of video. People had horses in the water and often the action started without warning. I was trying to capture it on video, but by the time I could level the camera on the tripod by fiddling with the legs and the bubble level, (very important because you can see the horizon), it would be too late and I would miss the action. I have quite a bit of footage with sometimes dramatically tilted horizons.
I am looking for a tripod that would self level and do it quickly. And of course, cost is a big consideration.
Any suggestions?
I just got back from a camping trip on a lake wher... (
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If the lighting is good, I'd forget about the tripod and hand-hold. It's better than getting the shot after the action has ended.
I think a self-leveling tripod would depend a great deal on the camera/lens combo. The head would need something to tell it when level was achieved. That sounds like a product to make someone rich.
Not to be to forward here, but have you looked in the RC (Radio Control) FPV (first person view). It's has come quite away from U Control. I know you can Gyro controlled camera mounts for you RC equipment. Go to Hobby King and punch in FPV. There is also a site for those that wish to build there own equipment and devices. If you want to know more just PM me.
You can also try RC Groups.
Another name: Head Tracking Gear.
Awesome, Thanks everyone for your ideas! Plenty to consider before the next shoot!
Google Velbon travel tripods. They have several that should meet your specs. ;)
TucsonCoyote wrote:
Here you go ! br Note the price though ! lol br ht... (
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And it levels "within seconds", how many seconds they refuse to say. 3 may be OK, 20 is slower than a manual tripod. $5000 and no speed specs listed, has to make you wonder.
But it is automatic, and I had never heard of one that did that before, nice find.
BboH
Loc: s of 2/21, Ellicott City, MD
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