Fotoserj Loc: St calixte Qc Ca

Me too, expensive but it will out last your camera and lens you far

sippyjug104 Loc: Missouri

I'm a retired mechanical system designer and as such, I am obedient to the Laws of Physics. Tripods that have a rising center post are more prone to tipping over when it is extended than a tripod that does not have a rising center post. The camera is centered over the tripod however, a long heavy lens creates leverage that can tip over the tripod when the center post is extended too high. Most rising post tripods have a 'hook' on the bottom so that weight (such as your gear bag) can be hung from it creating a plumb downward force that helps offset accidental tipping over.

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

This is a contentious issue, like filters. I too am anti center post. I mention because I'm also anti stooping when using a tripod. I believe you want a tripod where the base (where the ball mounts) is eye-level, possibly forehead high. The head and camera will then raise the camera even higher above the base. Getting a tripod this high lets you extend the tripod fully and shoot a subject over your head without having to stoop down to see into the view finder. One time out with a not tall enough tripod and you'll see the logic.

bnsf

I have a Sirui 75MM tripod w/ fluid head setup which I purchased from B&H. The whole tripod weights around 11 pounds and has a heavy bag to hold the tripod along with a 6 year manufacture warranty. One nice thing about this tripod is that the height is over 6' tall while the other standard tripods are only 5' in height.

photoman43

A tripod for long lens photography is part of your " long lens system." You will need a tripod head, tripod, lens mounting plates, camera and lenses. The goal is for the tripod to properly support everything on it so it is well balanced and can be easily used for the type of photo being taken, whether they are of subjects not moving or subjects moving like birds in flight. And it has to be designed for how you will use it--trail walking or from a blind, or both. Other factors come into play too--your height, packing it for air travel?, etc. And where you will be using it--dry land, sandy beaches, saltwater?

Most make the mistake of not understanding how the balance point shifts when you use a long tele zoom lens, zoomed out to its longest focal length. Your system needs to handle such a situation.

All this being said, you will likely need a series three or four tripod made by a good company that fits your budget. It will not have a center column. To keep costs down, check out Induro tripods (now owned by Benro) Induro GIT Grand Series Stealth tripods.

This video might help you out.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VT7OO7BEW4g

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

Before buying a tripod, I suggest you read all about the many issues/decisions on the Really Right Stuff site. Personally, I prefer either the RRS or Gitzo brands. Best of luck.

cytafex Loc: Clarksburg MA

I have 5 Gitzo tripods and they always get jammed up on river trips in the Grand canyon. Bought a Sirui CF and no jams in 5 Canyon trips and works great!

camerapapi Loc: Miami, Fl.

I have several tripods including an old aluminum Gitzo and a Manfrotto. The tripod I use more often is a cheap Dolica aluminum tripod that cost me $40.
Is it good enough? I bet it is when I use good tripod techniques.

SuperflyTNT Loc: Manassas VA

If I was set on a tripod/gimbal combo I’d look into the FotoPro Eagle line. That being said, shooting wildlife is different than most uses for a tripod. It’s not so much about rock-solid, vibration-free support. You’ll be shooting at shutter speeds that shouldn’t be a problem. If I was shooting something like a 600 f/4 it would have to be on a tripod. With my D500 and 150-600 I shoot handheld sometimes but if I’m in a situation where I might want hold on a nest or bird waiting for something to happen I’ll use a monopod with the Wimberly monoGimbal.

dandev Loc: Enumclaw, WA

I like my RRS tripod and ball head.

SuperflyTNT Loc: Manassas VA

I have a $40 Dolica. It works great for lightweight gear. When I had my D500 and 150-600 on it and slung it over my shoulder the center column sheared off. Luckily I was able to grab the strap before camera and lens hit the ground. Dolica customer support was good though. They sent a replacement column right out.

SuperflyTNT Loc: Manassas VA

A ball head isn’t great for wildlife.

Quixdraw Loc: x

I don't use tripods or monopods much, but I got a very nice Manfrotto Tripod and Monopod used, as were the ball head and gimbal I found. The entire set, completely satisfactory and a great deal less than a new quality tripod. Do some research and look used.

2435marty Loc: Berks County Pa

Hi, as said. The one you take. I use a Neewer TM254. I like it, it's stable, and does what I need. Also, it was in my price range. If I remember correctly I found it on Amazon. Good luck.

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

Well said and very important ! - many here on UHH do not seem to realize this .....
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