I need a tripod

[New.Dad]

I decided to buy a tripod. I have used Bogen/Manfrotto before at work but I am not sure I want to spend that much... they have some models around $120 or so, maybe I will go for one of those. Any other ideas? there are tens of brands out there, it's more difficult that choosing a digicam!

EDIT: forgot to mention, I shoot a dSLR (*istD). I don't have heavy telephoto lenses yet. Just some primes and normal zooms (i.e. 28-70/4, 28-105/3.2-4.5).

[wowzer]

From what I've read, it's more about the weight of the unit and the various capabilities. The weight is important because it resists vibration...the heavier, the better for stability (i.e. wind causing camera shake).

The ability to set-up low is important to some people, as it allows for flexibility.

I still haven't figured out what my needs are so I use an old heavy steel legged tripod my dad had. I also bought a low weight monopod (but I rarely use it). I'm fairly steady and can get decent shots at 1/50 handheld at 200mm...

Here is a review about tripods:
http://www.bythom.com/support.htm

[SeattlePhotog]

I've been using the same Bogen for literally 25 years. It's still as good as new.

Heavy, yes. But worth it. I don't use it on backpacking trips...just pro shoots.

[mattkime]

Bogen/Manfrottos are very nice and a good deal for what you get. I'm skeptical that you can find anything of quality for less.

Don't skimp on your tripod. It should last you your whole life.

[New.Dad]

all right, let's Bogen.

[Racer X]

The 2001, 2011 or 2021 seties, and pick your head. I have several earlier versions of the 329 head.

get the combo from B&H in NYC, or Cameraworld in Portland OR.. As a pair, they are cheaper.

wowzer is rught to a degree about the weight. That doesn't apply to carbon fiber or wood tripods though. Their material absorbs vibration far differently than a heavy metal (aluminum) tripod does. I just wanted to make that distinction for further info in case someone wants general info from this thread as well.

You can't get a decent carbon fiber tripod cheaply. Right now, almost all of the world's supply of carbon fiber is going into the Boeing 787 construction. Everything from race car body builders and carbon fiber bike manufacturers are feeling the shortages, and thgeir costs are skyrocketing.

[mlfrank]

Have have a couple of different Bogens in the past, the one I've been using consistently for the last 5 years is the Bogen 2001pro. If I had known at the time it existed, I would have gone for the 2021pro as it is taller. The good thing about both of these as they allow their use very low to the ground - excelant for macro shots.

As I have ended up with larger lenses (400/5.6, 150/2.8...) I have had to invest in a sturdier quick release head - Benro, which I am still getting use to. Reccomend quick release highly as it makes it easier for me to adapt to what I usually do.

Remember, there are two parts - the legs and the head. You might try your local craigslist, eBay, and or Fred Miranda ( http://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/board/10 ) for used ones. There was a good Benbo set legs going for $100 earlier this week. I got the Benro head through one person at FM, in excellant shape for less than what's been on eBay.

michael

[mlfrank]

make that the 3001pro & 3021pro - the 3001 & 3021 do not have the ability to go to ground level..................

michael

[jimbrady]

I've just discovered the joys of monopodding.

[Spock]

I'm a fan of Benbo tripods, strong solid and incredibly versatile.

http://www.patersonphotographic.com/tripods/benbo.html

The Trekker Mk 2 would be good start.



Spock