Which Tripod to Choose?!?!
FedMed
Registered Users Posts: 3 Beginner grinner
Hello all,
I've been sitting here pulling out what little hair I have left trying to decide on a good tripod to purchase for use with my Canon 7D. :scratch I have just recently gone (semi) pro and do a lot of landscape/nature as well as lots of action shots (I'm a full-time Firefighter/Paramedic and do a lot of training shoots on my off days). I'm not looking for anything over-the-top, as my budget will not allow. I'd like to keep it under $200 for now (if possible). I typically just use my 28-135 lens but plan on getting a decent sized telephoto soon, so it will need to be able to hold some weight. Thanks in advance!!!!
I've been sitting here pulling out what little hair I have left trying to decide on a good tripod to purchase for use with my Canon 7D. :scratch I have just recently gone (semi) pro and do a lot of landscape/nature as well as lots of action shots (I'm a full-time Firefighter/Paramedic and do a lot of training shoots on my off days). I'm not looking for anything over-the-top, as my budget will not allow. I'd like to keep it under $200 for now (if possible). I typically just use my 28-135 lens but plan on getting a decent sized telephoto soon, so it will need to be able to hold some weight. Thanks in advance!!!!
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A good tripod is a solid investment. It can literally be a once in a lifetime purchase if you take care of your gear. I currently own a Really Right Stuff TVC-33 and the TVC-24 (for travel). I love them. They are not cheap, but as I said, I'm not really planning on replacing them. Whether I am shooting in my backyard, or take a once and a lifetime trip to Africa, a good tripod is worth it. You'll probably have that tripod longer then you will your 7D.
Anyway, enough of my opinions. Hopefully you can get some insight into tripods for under $200 that will meet your needs.
Lenses: Nikon 70-200 f/2.8 VR II | Nikon 24-70 f/2.8 | Nikon 50mm f/1.4
Lighting: SB-910 | SU-800
Are you bothered about cosmetics (assuming everything works)?
Is weight an issue ... do you envisage much hiking etc?
'Decent sized telephoto' ... 400 f5.6 or 600 f4 ... there's some weight difference
etc
Old ali Gitzo 'system' (3,4,5) tripods, bought used are available under the figure you mentioned ... I use such gear.
pp
Flickr
I was just at B&H yesterday and bought a tri, they had a large selection, but sorry to say all the pro ones were over your price, especially when you add a solid head to it. I may also suggest used, or maybe even a video pod, they seem cheaper in price.
I would suggest you check the major web sites out, adorama, b&h, and dont forget jr music, get an idea of prices and max weight specs. Make sure you go over on weight spec, you dont want it not to be solid when you lock it down.
Happy Hunting
It's not what you look at that matters: Its what you see!
Nikon
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Check Craigslist and Ebay for a used Manfrotto. The king of tripods. I've bought a used one 8 years ago and it's still going strong. I'll never need another one again. They come in different sizes so you will want to consider that especially since you'll be lugging it around with you. You will not be disappointed.
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Chuck Dee - AKA Chris
"A good photograph is knowing where to stand." -Ansel Adams
www.bellissimofoto.com
Here is a tip, never leave your tripod behind your van after removing and stowing your camera gear then drive off without it.
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