Tripod advice sought

pixor

7

14 Nov 2004 - 10:54 AM

• Options
  • Report Error / Abuse

0

I have a rather cheap and wobbly Velbon tripod I bought when I did film photography, and now I have a Canon EOS 300D and am having fun with landscapes, I'd like to address it's shortcomings. I know nothing about the subject, so explain anything important like removable heads very slowly, please!

1. I hate lugging my tripod about - in fact it spends most of the time in the boot. So, other than stability, the number one priority is that its small/light/convenient enough that I actually take it with me. A carrying handle or strap would probably help.

2. The velbon's a bit wobbly, and I'd like something more stable. The legs have a sort of triangular construction, and I've seen some around which are a tubular design - they look more rigid when extended, is this the case?

3. Cost. I'm tight, but I'll pay a bit extra for something that's good!

Can anyone give me some advice?

Mike.

stewe

9

14 Nov 2004 - 11:28 AM

• Options
  • Report Error / Abuse

0

As much as it is a pain. The advice I have been given is buy the heaviest tripod you can. I have used heavy ones and they are so superior to others. No wobble but they are a pain to carry..

Stewe

autarky

8

14 Nov 2004 - 12:00 PM

• Options
  • Report Error / Abuse

0

Pixor - its a pity you didn't think of it yesterday at YSP - Steve had the 055ProB with removable column when he was sitting beside you in the caff. A lighter alternative is the 190DB - quite rigid but doesn't go as high - Mattwaggie was using one of these and so was I. You could have compared them. I also have the 055pro silver which is heavier and better all round except its a pain (at my age!)to carry all day long.

I think from your list of desirable features above the 190DB is the best fit!

agoreira

8

14 Nov 2004 - 12:58 PM

• Options
  • Report Error / Abuse

0

"A lighter alternative is the 190DB "

What does the "D" stand for? Do you know what the main differences are between the CL, Pro, and D? (and don't say twenty quid! ) CL can spread it's legs, so to speak, anything else?
Thanks
Frank

keithh

8

14 Nov 2004 - 1:09 PM

• Options
  • Report Error / Abuse

0

you have the A, which is the bog standard (the D refers to the D shaped central column, for less pan movement), then the CL which has the fast release leg locks and a wider choice of leg angles, then the Pro which is the CL with the horizontal central arm option......I think.

PSILVERMAN

7

14 Nov 2004 - 2:01 PM

• Options
  • Report Error / Abuse

0

It weighs a ton but you can't beat a Benbo Trekker 2.It has sealed legs so you can stand it in water but getting used to it is like grappling with an octopus drunk!!
It can get into almost any position and has been invaluable to me.
regards,Phil.

muzzeyman

8

14 Nov 2004 - 3:31 PM

• Options
  • Report Error / Abuse

0

I too am an ardant drunken octopus grappler! Picked my Benbo up with ball head for 80 last January. It's heavy & a pain getting it back in to the carry bag, but wow! I've used to to get into some very awkward photographic compositions and it's weight and sheer stability have never failed. I also use a couple of lightweight jobbies when on a wedding shoot, but for landscapes, I'd go for the Benbo.

pixor

7

15 Nov 2004 - 6:00 AM

• Options
  • Report Error / Abuse

0

Thanks all, I am taking a look at the 190's. What's the deal with the heads? I haven't a clue what type I should be looking for, and there's far too much choice for me to know ehat I should be looking for? Also, what's the 190 like for carrying? Does it come with a strap or some sort of mounting point for one?

Mike.