Tripod Recommendations

[Chikabowa]

I'm looking for a new tripod for our upcoming trip in 4 weeks. Definitely want something light and easy to pack. The majority of the time I will not be carrying it with me, but there are specific evenings that I plan on going out by myself to do night photography alone. I have a Nikon D3 and will be shooting with a 24-70 f2.8 lens at night.

Help please?

 

[GrillMouster]

Gitzo GT2530 or the Bogen Manfrotto 055MF3 and the Really Right Stuff BH-55 ball head. Read http://bythom.com/support.htm to learn why. I love mine.

 

[boBQuincy]

GrillMouster's choice is a fine one indeed but it's gonna' cost you! The article by Thom makes some good points but to me it doesn't address the photographer who wants a tripod for occasional use and who stashes it in a WDW locker during the day.

True, a $100 tripod is not a fine piece of equipment but it can get the job done, depending on our needs. I have a Velbon 347 Maxi that works ok up to a point (that point does not include long exposures with a 70-200 lens).

I also have a set of Velbon 640 CF legs used with a RRS BH-25 ballhead that does work well with the 70-200. I also use RRS camera clamps, the ones that come with most tripods are really poor by comparison. This will run closer to $600, the price climbs really quickly as the stability goes up.

 

[Chikabowa]

Yeah, I have a nice Bogen already, but I seriously NEVER use it, and it's just way too heavy to deal with on vacation. It just isn't what I need usually... but I wanted to try my hand at something a little different and build that side of my skill while I'm on vacation.

I'm not taking the 70-200 with me on this particular trip; I just don't want to as I want to focus on a different lens and a different set of skills. I think I just might cheap out and get a $100 tripod. Am I insane? (Don't ask hubby... he will tell you yes!)

 

[DebºoºS]

I got the Velbon ultra max i f for wdw trips. It's super light and yet extends to full height. The price was right too. I love it and I hate tripods

 

[YesDear]

I totally agree with the RRS ballhead and clamps. I use the clamps but have an Arca Swiss ballhead. You cannot go wrong with RRS. You might want to look at the Benro carbon fiber tripods. B&H carries them. Being Carbon Fiber they are light and being from China they are inexpensive for carbon fiber. I have one and it fits in my suitcase. The carry case it comes with makes it easier to carry in parks.

I would not be trusting a D3 and lens to just any tripod no matter where I am.

 

[MarkBarbieri]

Another vote for Gitzo CF and either an RSS ballhead or an Acratech. Definitely get an L bracket if you like to Shoot vertical.