Tripod Choice

[illy]

Sorry for joining in with the numerous tripod posts - but I really have no idea about tripods.

I won't be shooting any fast action should I'm going to go for a 3 Way Head, not a ball head. Secondly the lower to the ground that I can get my tripod the better.

There are so many Manfrotto and Gitzo tripods out there that I can't really distinguish between them. So I would love for any suggestions (maybe through personal experience) on what tripod I should get that should hold around 4kg (350D, Grip, 430EX, Tamron 17-50/60mm) and get can close to the ground. And any suggestions on the a 3 Way Head.

I'm in the UK and I have found that there aren't many options to choose from. So far I was thinking of the Manfrotto 055DB Basic (£90 in my local camera shop) for the legs - not sure on head.

Thanks.

[Merlin_Toronto]

Low to the ground?

A Benbo!

[illy]

Thanks for the reply. I don't necessarily mean that it has to go really low - but I like taking shots from unusual angles. I'd prefer a tripod than get lower down than most. I don't need a specialised macro one.

[SkipD]

My tripod recommendation for general purpose use is the Bogen/Manfrotto 3021BPro (known as the 055ProB outside the U.S.) topped off with the Bogen/Manfrotto 488RC2 ball head.

This is a very sturdy combination with enough height for most folks.

It is an extremely versatile tripod/head combination, with many ways to support a camera. You can put a camera over a short wall, directly above a table pointing down, inches above the ground, etc.

The 488RC2 ball head has a feature that should not be ignored. That is the separate release for "panning". You can loosen the lever and rotate the camera horizontally without releasing the ball. This is great for scenic panoramic shots.

A tripod with a ball head is usually FAR easier to pack and carry than one with handles sticking out in various directions.

Here’s the combination at B&H: 3021BPro/488RC2 (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=353322&is=REG&addedTroughType=search/)

[Merlin_Toronto]

Thanks for the reply. I don't necessarily mean that it has to go really low - but I like taking shots from unusual angles. I'd prefer a tripod than get lower down than most. I don't need a specialised macro one.

I don't think of the Benbo as a specialized macro pod. For me it's the greatest thing for setting up on uneven terrain. The inverted legs are great for wet/dirty conditions.

[lovelace415]

I agree with Skip, the Manfrotto combination is a excellent all around kit.

[illy]

Thanks for the replies :)

I've had a look at the 055Pro and I love it - so once again, appreciated. I can get it for £110 from my camera store.

However I can't find the ball head in the UK shops; has it got a different name? I'm a bit reluctant to order from B&H as I'm not sure about the taxes.

[GyRob]

CAMERAWORLD £ 63 google it a few come up.
Rob.

[illy]

CAMERAWORLD £ 63 google it a few come up.
Rob.

Awesome :D I can get the kit for for £150

I can't believe I didn't know about that store. I could have placed a bet that I knew every camera in the UK lol