cameraf4 Loc: Delaware

Without stepping on anyone's toes, I'd like to mention that this is Spock's "first DSLR." At that point in my photographic life with film SLRs, I didn't know that photography would become the passion in my life that it did. I was not about to go out and buy a top-of-the-line tripod just as I was not about to buy a 5x-as-expensive Top Professional camera.
Let me give a shout-out to inexpensive tripods that are actually pretty good. First, think "Aluminium" rather than "Carbon Fibre". That can come later if you like. Second, IMHO, most of us have found that a "Ball Head" is a better idea (in most cases) than a "Pan-and-Tilt" head. Look for a pod that comes with one that also incorporates a "Quick Release System".
My daughter has asked for a tripod for Xmas. I have been considering this one:[ https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013UES9UU/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_3?ie=UTF8&smid=A135F4J7WACEE&th=1]. As a "starter", it looks pretty good to me.

mr spock Loc: Fairfield CT

Wow! My simple question re tripod choice certainly resulted in a wide range of opinions. It’s what makes this forum so great.
Thank you all for the “education “.

camerapapi Loc: Miami, Fl.

I have several tripods and my most used one is a cheap ($45) Dolica tripod that is light and convenient. Using good tripod techniques the images are tack sharp.
I am sure that you can find a very good tripod for around $150 and a used one is a good choice IF it is in good condition.
I do not know what you shoot but a ballhead would be very convenient for general photography.

cbmel

Look at the vanguard alta series. Tbeyare good and affordable. Buy what you van afford and go out and shoot. Dont go cheap but get what tou can. Tripod is not the place to skimp. Enjoy.

Bob Boner

I have both a Gitzo and an Induro. The construction of the Induro is almost as good as the Gitzo and it costs about half as much. When buying any tripod, try to anticipate future needs. Buy one that will support the largest camera/lens combo you can imagine having. Otherwise you will end up buying a lot of tripods over the years.

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

Or not ! .......

The "weight ratings" are not absolute and probably not accurate ! - but they are - more or less universally used industry wide - and gives some idea of the structural stability.

IMO, the weakest link in a tripod is the bottom leg section - and the size of THAT should be the way tripod stability ratings are developed....and I am noticing recently, that some manufacturers are actually exposing this dimension. Knowing the top section size is OK - but it is the bottom section that matters more and bigger is better - for stability - but not for weight.

davyboy Loc: Anoka Mn.

Love ya man! Well said

RWR Loc: La Mesa, CA

I disagree 100%. Better to purchase the tripod/head you need at this time, and if/when you upgrade to a larger camera and/or longer lens, figure in the cost of a second tripod suitable for it. (Been there, done that!)
For example, I have an old featherweight wooden tripod that looks more like three puny crutches leaning together than a tripod, but it supports my lightweight 35mm rangefinder cameras and lenses from 25 to 90mm just fine. I also have Ries and Zone VI tripods for my medium format cameras, which include a Mamiya RB 67 Pro-SD and 500 f/6.0 APO lens. Wouldn’t I look silly using either system on the other tripod! I also have other tripods and heads suited for different camera/lens combinations.
At best, I consider tripods inconvenient but necessary, and photography is much more enjoyable when everything matches up well. This is my personal view on the subject, I’m not arrogant enough to pretend to say what’s best for anyone else.
Edit: I still have and use every tripod I have ever purchased, no regrets with any one of them.

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

Yes, especially for maximum performance, tripod/heads are very application specific ! - and having more than 1 of each is NOT against any law that I know of ....

davyboy Loc: Anoka Mn.

You can get a good middle of the road manfatto aluminum tripod with a ball head for $150-$300

Picture Taker Loc: Michigan Thumb

Take your camera and lens to a STORE. Put it on different tripods and find one that fits you and you camera. That is the cheapest way . You will only buy one instead of new ones to fix you comfort zone.

RWR Loc: La Mesa, CA

You’re much better at words than I - wish you had posted this ahead of me!

Notorious T.O.D. Loc: Harrisburg, North Carolina

First DSLR is not not reflective of cost...but most would assume that it is a lower cost model. Just as I would not put a $200 saw blade on a $200 table saw I might not put a $1000 camera and lens on a $1000 tripod. That said what everyone has said is good information regarding what the pros and cons of various features and specifications of tripods that are available from $10 to over $1000. Naturally I think a better quality tripod will hold its value better as well as likely work and perform better. I suspect that many on this forum have a unused lower end tripod that they could sell the OP for a very good price. I have one Velbon that was given to me that I used to use mainly as a Speedlite stand that I would gladly give to someone who is getting started. It may not be a great tripod but it may be better than nothing.

The other thing that one needs to keep in mind is that there are proper ways to use a tripod and if one is not getting the results expected it could be the tripod but it could also be in part the technique. The tripod is just another tool and it must be used with proper technique to get the best results. I hope the OP will keep this in mind too when learning to use a tripod.

Best,
Todd Ferguson

3dees

the best tripod to buy is the one your going to use. I have a Manfratto tripod at home but rarely take it out with me because it weighs a ton. I have severe back problems so I tried one of those tripods that everyone is putting out. it's from Neewer. will it be ok with a 500mm lens? no, it's not made for that, but it will hold my equipment just fine and being that it's a little less than 3 lbs. I can take it everywhere. funny how Manfratto and others are making the same tripod and selling them for twice the price. sorry, but I won't spend 500.00 on a tripod. for pros that need it, I understand, but lets get real. how many of us really need and not just want the best and most expensive toys out there.

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

This answer contains some of the worst advice on purchasing a tripod that I have ever seen, even on here. You really do need to read all the links that Gene51 provided and stop giving newbies advice that isn't grounded in fact. I really don't mean to upset you, and I apologize if I have. Gene51's point is that while a weight rating is ONE thing you can look at, it really is misleading information. Of course your tripod, and head, need to support the weight put upon it, but if that's all it does it will be a waste of money. There are more considerations, and those are the most important. The bad news is that when I was a newbie, I bought a couple of inexpensive tripods that are essentially a waste of money before I really knew what I was getting into and the good news is that I have about a half dozen cheapie tripods that make great, adjustable stands of my small, portable off-camera flash units. All of my personal GOOD stuff is Gitzo, and all my attachment gear is RRS. Buying a reasonable tripod up front will cost more money, but it will better serve you over the life of your photography experience. This is definitely an area where you get what you pay for. Best of luck & Happy Holidays to ALL of you!