Low tripod for DSLR (Page 2): I have a Slik U212 Deluxe that I bought in the late 80s (love it). It is extremely versatile and can get very low. It also allows the camera to be mounted...

flip1948 Loc: Hamden, CT

I have a Slik U212 Deluxe that I bought in the late 80s (love it). It is extremely versatile and can get very low. It also allows the camera to be mounted to one of the legs or the bottom of the center post if you need to get lower.

While it is no longer available as new they are usually always available used on eBay.

It utilizes their quick release post and the legs disengage instantly with the flip of a lever...no unscrewing.

It comes with a tilt/pan head but a ball head and a pistol grip head were also available to fit this tripod.

Here's one on eBay looks like it's new with open box for $89 (shipping a little high), about what I paid for mine over 30 years ago:

https://www.ebay.com/p/97353269

Photo credit to B&H:

hjkarten Loc: San Diego, California

Another option would be to attach a small HDMI monitor on the camera. A more expensive way to go, and may prove difficult to see clearly on a bright sunny day.

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

hjkarten wrote:

Another option would be to attach a small HDMI monitor on the camera. A more expensive way to go, and may prove difficult to see clearly on a bright sunny day.

Cool! Lotta cameras will work with that?

Orphoto Loc: Oregon

Alphabravo -- check out the koolehaoda line from ebay or amazon. For about $75 you get 3 section 3 position carbon fiber. I mount full sized markins head to mine. Lowest setting puts platform about 3 inches off ground. Sturdy enough for 300 f2.8 and d850 pointed any which way. Hint use the 2 wider splay settings for real stability. Unit is maybe 10 or 12 ounces w/out head.

E.L.. Shapiro Loc: Ottawa, Ontario Canada

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/explora/photography/hands-on-review/20-tripods-that-are-not-really-tripods

Check out this link, there are many possibilities including the units shown in the attached image.

mdoing

Platypod! Unique approach that really works.

rogerl Loc: UK (Harrogate, North Yorkshire)

When my Gorillapod failed I bought this: https://smile.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B001AZO9LU/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1. Absolutely perfect for the trail camera in the garden.

Ron 717 Loc: Pennsylvania

Would this fit your needs?

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Sunpak-620-250-12-2-Mini-Pro-Plus-Tripod-With-3-Way-Panhead-Black/124556578269

billt1970 Loc: Gambrills, Maryland

Alphabravo2020 wrote:

I'm looking around for a short tripod for a DSLR. When I say tripod I mean more like a foot or cradle (off-the-shelf or improvised) to control the orientation of the camera when shooting from ground level.

I have this GorillaP.pod and use it regularly when I need to be close to the ground. It can also wrap around a pole or other structure when a tripod won't work. It holds 6.6 lbs. which should be sufficient for most situations.

JOBY
GorillaPod 3K Flexible Mini-Tripod with Ball Head Kit

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1359603-REG/joby_jb01507_gorillapod_3k_kit.html&EB=572

Good Luck

BT

cedymock Loc: Irmo, South Carolina

Alphabravo2020 wrote:

I'm looking around for a short tripod for a DSLR. When I say tripod I mean more like a foot or cradle (off-the-shelf or improvised) to control the orientation of the camera when shooting from ground level.

My pocket tripod is too weak for the weight of the camera and off-center balance of the lens and is actually set too high anyway.

TIA

Slik PRO DXShort Tripod This has work well for me.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1438849-REG/slik_613_501_pro_dxshort_tripod.html

tdozier3 Loc: Northern Illinois

Alphabravo2020 wrote:

I'm looking around for a short tripod for a DSLR. When I say tripod I mean more like a foot or cradle (off-the-shelf or improvised) to control the orientation of the camera when shooting from ground level.

My pocket tripod is too weak for the weight of the camera and off-center balance of the lens and is actually set too high anyway.

TIA

Check out the Carbon Fiber Leofoto Ranger LS-223C. I paid $129.00 for mine on Ebay. It's built like a tank and holds my D7500 with my 18-300mm lens with no problems. Couldn't be happier with it.

(Download)

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

So many choices!

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

hjkarten wrote:

See the various "Ground Pods" at B&H, such as the "Skimmer". Or you can make one with an old 10" aluminum frying pan and a 3/8" bolt.
Check out youtube for various DIY versions. I am thinking of making or buying one.
See also Platy Pods.

Yes, I mainly use the Manfro #222 grip action ball head with a large pan - but the #222 is no longer made - but there are still knock-offs - https://www.ebay.com/itm/KINGJOY-KH-6600-Handle-Grip-Action-Head-for-Canon-Nikon-DSLR-Camera/121481590525?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649
.

cedymock Loc: Irmo, South Carolina

Alphabravo2020 wrote:

I'm looking around for a short tripod for a DSLR. When I say tripod I mean more like a foot or cradle (off-the-shelf or improvised) to control the orientation of the camera when shooting from ground level.

My pocket tripod is too weak for the weight of the camera and off-center balance of the lens and is actually set too high anyway.

TIA

When I recommend the Slik PRO DXShort Tripod I forgot you used the word improvised. Here's one for around house and yard, cost $ 1.00 for weight found in thrift shop. Would suggest 20 lbs the 15 lb will move a little if pointing straight down.

(Download)

jimvanells Loc: Augusta, GA

I had the same problem with my large Canon 5D4. I bought a Moman aluminum tripod from B & H and it has a wide stance with the legs spread out and will also lie flat on the ground. When the legs are flat the plate (Arca) is 4" off the ground. It's well built and has a good ballhead which supports my camera, macro and ring flash with no issues.