Help choosing a tripod

THansenite

I am pretty new to photography, but have already had several instances where a good tripod would have helped me out immensely. I originally got my camera to take pictures at car shows. Some of these shows are held at night or in dimly lit areas so I get a lot of camera shake. A monopod has helped, but I want a decent tripod.

Here is what I am looking for:
- something in the $50-60 range
- portable (folds up fairly small and is easily carried when folded)
- manuverability when extended (something that I can move around quickly at shows)
- not essential, but I have seen where some tripods break out into a monopod. I think that would be very handy.

I have looked around at some tripods, but I can't really decide which is better than others.

BeemerChef

THansenite wrote:

I am pretty new to photography, but have already had several instances where a good tripod would have helped me out immensely. I originally got my camera to take pictures at car shows. Some of these shows are held at night or in dimly lit areas so I get a lot of camera shake. A monopod has helped, but I want a decent tripod.

Here is what I am looking for:
- something in the $50-60 range
- portable (folds up fairly small and is easily carried when folded)
- manuverability when extended (something that I can move around quickly at shows)
- not essential, but I have seen where some tripods break out into a monopod. I think that would be very handy.

I have looked around at some tripods, but I can't really decide which is better than others.

After much resistance, I am also looking!!! But... I already know that at the $50-60 range all I will find is the very pliable Walmart special...
I will follow this thread myself...

Be well... Ara & Spirit

cmason

I am sure you are going to hear it from others, but in the $50-60 range, just about anything will do, go to Walmart for example. They will be about the same: serviceable and just barely better than hand-holding/monopod.

The issue is that in that price range, you likely will have a lightweight aluminum or plastic leg, and probably a plastic 'head'. You likely can not replace the head to put your own ballhead on either.

This all means that your tripod likely will be more designed for a point and shoot or small video camera, and not the weight of your dslr and lens. Any vibration from the floor, say from people walking by or cars moving, will be transferred to the camera from the tripod, giving you blurry shots.

There is a reason tripods tend to be expensive, and this is one of them. You do not need to spend $1000, but as others have said, spending $100 simply means that you will be buying another, more expensive tripod later, and throwing away your cheap one. Better save up for a decent tripod.

{edit, forgot to offer my recommendations} In fact, I am still saving up for my tripod. I have been looking at the less expensive Chinese carbon fiber tripods. I have used this one, and recommend it from Feisol:

http://www.feisol.net/feisol-foursection-tripod-ct3402-with-tripod-p-27.html

and have tried this one:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=workaround.jsp&A=details&Q=&sku=497911&is=REG

There are some reviews here on Dgrin you should check out, where some other tripods, and the Feisol are reviewed:

http://dgrin.smugmug.com/gallery/4054890

THansenite

I guess I should have mentioned that I shoot pics recreationally. I'm not a professional photographer by any stretch of the imigination, I just like taking decent pictures. If I wait for an extra payday or two, I might be able to do a $100 tripod, but as a hobbiest, I don't need anything super fancy. Also, since it is going to be riding around in my car next to cleaning supplies and luggage, carbon fiber scares me since it is the least resiliant of the tripod materials. I am leaning more towards aluminum for the durability.

I am planning on looking at your recommendations and checking out their specs though. Thanks for the help.

cmason

I understand, but if you are not happy with your images on a monopod, you wont be much happier with a cheap tripod either.

You should check Benro as well as Induro (both at B+H), as they sell aluminum versions as well, at least Induro does. I believe Induro makes the Adorama line of tripods as well (Flashpoint)

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=induro&ci=8159&N=4294204162&Ns=p_PRICE_2

http://www.adorama.com/FPTPF1128.html

kdog

I have a $50 Slik aluminum/plastic tripod that served me well until I upgraded. It held a DSLR plus mid range zoom lens just fine. I even used it in the slot canyons for taking 30 second exposures. No problem. It wasn't until I tried putting heavier telephotos on it that I felt the need to upgrade. I now have about $1600 invested in my replacement tripod. However, I can still get good shots on the Slik if need be. $50 is cheap enough that if you decide to upgrade later, you haven't wasted any money. I now use my Slik as a remote light stand.

THansenite

cmason wrote:

I understand, but if you are not happy with your images on a monopod, you wont be much happier with a cheap tripod either.

You should check Benro as well as Induro (both at B+H), as they sell aluminum versions as well, at least Induro does. I believe Induro makes the Adorama line of tripods as well (Flashpoint)

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=induro&ci=8159&N=4294204162&Ns=p_PRICE_2

http://www.adorama.com/FPTPF1128.html

Thanks man, I'll definitely look into those brands.

chrismoore

I used this cheap Canon tripod for a couple of years when I was just starting out, before upgrading to a Manfrotto which I love. It served me well, though it didn't support much weight at all, and would sag with any medium zoom lens. If you're looking for something to test the waters, it's only $40, and will serve its purpose, just don't expect high quality materials and craftsmanship.

Photog4Christ

In addition to what has already been said, consider "quick release". I'm sure a Walmart special does not have quick release. Maybe they've changed over the years (I used to own a Vivitar), but even a used "pro" level tripod will serve you better. You don't have to get a Manfrotto if it isn't in your budget, but don't get a cheap drug store tripod either.

Sam

I wouldn't touch a cheap China carbon fiber knock off tripod for free.

There are way too many reports of the head breaking off while the camera was attached.

I would not consider trying to save a few bucks and putting my camera and lens in known jeopardy.

Save up..........................look for a good solid brand used.

Cheap tripods are not worth it.That said you can find some name brand decent ones for about $150.00 or so.

Sam

rwmj

THansenite wrote:

Thanks man, I'll definitely look into those brands.

You might also consider a Tiltall tripod - a bit heavier (at 7 pounds I think)but very sturdy. I bought one two decades ago (when it was manufactured under the name STAR-D) and find it very reliable still. When I recently returned to using it I thought the weight would be problematic but unless I was to go backpacking it seems very serviceable.
I think it is priced at ~$100.
Here is some information on its history.
http://www.plumeltd.com/tiltall.htm

Roy

Art Scott

By THOM
SEE,,,BY THOM.....thumbbow

cmason

Sam before you dis 'cheap' Chinese carbon fiber, check out this review by Michael Reichmann on the Induro carbon tripod he used in Antartica:

http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/accessories/indiro413.shtml

aktse

Sam wrote:

I wouldn't touch a cheap China carbon fiber knock off tripod for free.

I wouldn't classify all chinese tripod as cheap; there are cheap ones out there, but there are also cheap tripods made from other countries too.

I owe three sticks (gitzo, silk and induro), and I love my induro and gitzo and the silk is perfectly usable. If I ever need to buy one again, I'll probably go with Induro -- ready steady solid, rock solid. However, they're still pricey and not cheap by any means, but not as pricey as a gitzo.

I don't believe most people realize that Induro is a part of the Mac Group

If you have a manufacturing and quality issue with them, then you have an issue with Profoto lights (one of the studio lighting standard), sekonic (very popular and highly rated lightmeter), x-rite (one of the best color calibration tools), pocket wizard (some would say the default standard for off-camera flash triggering), tenba (great bags), and benro (another so-called "Chinese tripod" brands). I don't know if they're all chinese made, but the Mac group makes some pretty good stuff.

I'm just saying -- read the reviews yourself, go to a local store to feel and touch, and ask questions before going on general info on the web without specific facts and details.

Personally, i believe and trust the by tom tripod article. I've seen multiple people go through all of those stages (3+ people). My current recommendation is to go with a cheaper set of legs rather than the gitzo (induro, feisol, manfrotto, etc), but don't skimp on the head or the plate system.

chrisjohnson

Art Scott wrote:

SEE,,,BY THOM.....thumbbow

Great article! Tells it how it is.

I suppose a lot of new dslr photographers resent the amount of money a decent tripod costs. Still it is worth it - best to go for second hand rather than buy something new and inadequate for 100$.

On mine I love the little spirit level - means I can set a flat platform in no time. And the quick release plate which is a permanent feature on my camera. And the way the head tilts and swivels. And the carrying case which for some bizarre reason was sold as an extra.

THansenite

I was at Best Buy last night with the girlfriend and I went over to the camera section. Just for kicks I set up a SunPak and a Manfroto tripod. I couldn't believe the difference in stability between the two. The SunPak felt really wobbly and with the center extended, even more so. No long exposure shots on that tripod. On the other hand, the more expensive Manfroto felt extremely stable. Feeling the difference between the quality of those two units is making me wait to save up some money before I buy a tripod so I can get a quality one.

Ink84

In most cases you get what you pay for. I paid $40 for a Giottos cheap tripod from Blacks, it is an awful tripod, made of plastic and aluminium. It was prone to bending and wasn't very stable.

A few months later I went to Henry's Photographic Show and tried out some of the more expensive tripods there, they were fantastic, extremely solid and easy to use.

I walked out having spent $300 on a Manfrotto 055XPRO and 804RC head, I'm happy that I spent more money on a tripod, it is worth it in the long run.

I'd have to say spend a bit more on a good tripod and it will last you for years to come.

Photog4Christ

THansenite wrote:

... Feeling the difference between the quality of those two units is making me wait to save up some money before I buy a tripod so I can get a quality one.

Wise choice

FlyNavy

I just got back from 10 days in Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. I bought a ball head from Induro to replace the standard lever handle on my Slik Sprint Pro EZ thinking that the ball head would be faster and more convienant to adjust. I was so disappointed with the inferior quality of the Induro Ball Head. After several days in the field the ball head froze and completely jamed causing me to nearly break the ball head loose from the tripot to get my camera disconnected. Sadly my Slik lever head was left at home so I was without a tripod for most of my trip. Lesson learned.....You get what you pay for.

travischance

THansenite wrote:

I am pretty new to photography, but have already had several instances where a good tripod would have helped me out immensely. I originally got my camera to take pictures at car shows. Some of these shows are held at night or in dimly lit areas so I get a lot of camera shake. A monopod has helped, but I want a decent tripod.

Here is what I am looking for:
- something in the $50-60 range
- portable (folds up fairly small and is easily carried when folded)
- manuverability when extended (something that I can move around quickly at shows)
- not essential, but I have seen where some tripods break out into a monopod. I think that would be very handy.

I have looked around at some tripods, but I can't really decide which is better than others.

I purchased a Manfrotto 725B as my first tripod - lightweight and folds up to about 16 inches. It's sturdy enough to hold my XSi and 100-400L with no issues. I think I paid about $80 (if you don't mind spending the additional $20).

brascothom

Hi Everyone..

I want to purchase a Manfrotto tripod from B&H together with a 10D, the
28-70 2.8 L USM and 70-200 2.8 L IS and a few filters.
What would be the best choice of a tripod with head for this package?
Any suggestion or better choice of a Manfrotto tripod?
Thank you.

Scott_Quier

brascothom wrote:

Hi Everyone..

I want to purchase a Manfrotto tripod from B&H together with a 10D, the
28-70 2.8 L USM and 70-200 2.8 L IS and a few filters.
What would be the best choice of a tripod with head for this package?
Any suggestion or better choice of a Manfrotto tripod?
Thank you.

In all seriousness, I would strongly council you to consider NOT purchasing a tripod/ballhead kit (think about it, wait for it, the reasons will present themselves). Rather, get a good tripod and a good ballhead. I like the Feisol CT-3371 tripod (that review is mine ) and one of the Really Right Stuff ballheads. I splurged and got the BH-55 PCL, but a version of the BH-40 may be more than sufficient to your needs.

A number of people on DGrin have been talking up RRS equipment over the last few years and I used to wonder, "Is it really worth the money?" I went lower cost for the Glacier NP Shootout a couple of years ago and am really sorry I did. After getting the RRS ballhead (and three different L-Plates), I'm sold - well worth the $$. I had the opportunity to shoot a couple of High School soccer games using this setup (and a 50D/EF 100-400) - it was a sheer joy to use. This stuff "just works".

chrisjohnson

I bought a Manfrotto 055XDB - the Basic Rapid Column (so you can change height quickly) - and a 804RC2 Basic Pan Tilt Head. It is a super piece of kit and does everything I need. It cost - I think - around 200 USD equivalent (actually today 209.90 from Adorama with free shipping). I had to pay a bit more for a bag; a bag is fairly essential I think.

I suppose a ball head would be even more convenient - but this works reliably. I suppose also that twist grip for the legs would be even easier. Suppose also if I was shooting in a hurricane or climbing a mountain that I might need more or less weight. But for my day-to-day needs this Manfrotto combo is doing a great job and I don't envisage changing for the foreseeable future. After a year or so it shows no signs of wear or tear.

Art Scott

Ink84 wrote:

In most cases you get what you pay for. I paid $40 for a Giottos cheap tripod from Blacks, it is an awful tripod, made of plastic and aluminium. It was prone to bending and wasn't very stable.

A few months later I went to Henry's Photographic Show and tried out some of the more expensive tripods there, they were fantastic, extremely solid and easy to use.

I walked out having spent $300 on a Manfrotto 055XPRO and 804RC head, I'm happy that I spent more money on a tripod, it is worth it in the long run.

I'd have to say spend a bit more on a good tripod and it will last you for years to come.

I am wondering which Giottos you purchased for $40....mine was just under $170 (and by no means their top line) and it is rock solid and has been invaluable for over 4yrs now......it was the lightest 4 section 'PRO" tripod I could get at that time.....Giottos makes some very great products and I got rid of a Manfrotto/Bogen becasue it was very heavy and not nearly as solid and was much more expensive.........You cannot judge a line of products by their bottom line offerings...even Manfrotto / Bogen offer absolute Junk on the lowest end..........

Art Scott

brascothom wrote:

Hi Everyone..

I want to purchase a Manfrotto tripod from B&H together with a 10D, the
28-70 2.8 L USM and 70-200 2.8 L IS and a few filters.
What would be the best choice of a tripod with head for this package?
Any suggestion or better choice of a Manfrotto tripod?
Thank you.

Scott Q. has give n some rock solid advice on not buying a "kit" tripod/ball head.....most kits are very low end....and a TRipod is not just a Tripod and any ol' tripod won't work in every situation.....
I shoot in awkward angles at times so a standard tripod was going to do it and the retailers in my area do not carry but one brand maybe 2 and usually it is the lowext end of the lins they have in stock and everyting else is special order and YOU pay s/h just to handle a special order with no return available (and they wonder why they loose business to BH, Adorama and ebay)......I ordered 4 different tripods and wound up with my Giottos with removable center column taht can be repositioned to various different angles for shooting nature stuff......and even at odd angles it is rock solid.........