Any Gitzo GT1540T users out there willing to share their experiences?

[Dan Doucette]

Hello,

I am contemplating the purchase of a Gitzo GT1540T tripod (Traveler version). Is there anyone who uses or has used one of these who can offer their personal insights on this model based on real-world experiences?

I am interested in your opinions on how well it operates in the field.

Does it really seem that much more compact than its competitors? Does it sacrifice too much stability in order to be small and lightweight? Is the unique leg folding design practical? Any and all insights or opinions are welcome, as long as they are based on your actual use of this tripod. What do you like and dislike about it?

(I will usually use a 5D and 16-35 or 24-70 on the tripod but will occasionally venture up to a 5D with 70-200mm (f/2.8 IS) lens combo. I plan to use a Manfrotto 486RC2 ball head with the tripod in order to keep the weight/load capability balanced, and to maintain system wide compatibility with my various other Manfrotto RC2 heads.)

I look forward to hearing your thoughts about this unique tripod.

[Tsmith]

That tripod gets very good reviews and should serve you well. I just picked up the lighter version GT0530 and have been amazed at the build quality and overall solid feel of such a compact setup. Handles my 40D and 70-200 f/4L with ease using a Kirk BH-3 Ball Head.

I would suggest finding a better ball head than the 486RC2 as it doesn't have the panning option and in my experience drifts after tightening down the ball head when using a heavier lens.

[mitchella68]

I do not keep up with the new models but I have just puchased the 1257lvl and it is super stable, lightweight and very well made. I think my other tripod is a Manfroto pro190 alum. and the Gitzo makes it feel like a ton. It might be worth checking out as I was surprised at the weight differance myself.

[SunTsu]

I started off with the GT3530S tripod, then got the GM3550 monopod and just recently ordered the 1540T. I'm still waiting for it to arrive, but spent a lot of time with it in a local store. If you get it, you have to understand it's limitations. If you are planning to use it mostly in studio or non-hiking type purposes, then I would stay away from this tripod. It's about the same price as the 3530S but is FAR less stable. It's strength is in its weight and folded size, but I would not buy this tripod as a main tripod. I purchased the 1540T primarily for travel. If I'm shooting around town, I bring my 3530S.

When the legs are spread on the 1540T, there is a good amount of movement and flex in the legs if you press down on top of the head. On a full-size tripod like the 3530S, there is virtually no movement or flex in the legs.

[sevans16]

I have the 3540 and it is awesome. With a 5D and 70-200 f2.8 I would go at least the 25XX series. Unless you need a light weight pod for back packing. The 15XX will hold it but others will be more stable.

[Dan Doucette]

If and when I get the GT1540T (traveler), I will use it primarily when travelling and shooting documentary (PJ) work. I usually shoot hand-held for this kind of fast paced stuff but I want a small (and useable) tripod that will not be a burden to carry around for those times when you just can't get away with hand-holding. (I use a sturdier tripod when the weight and size are not an issue).

Does the flex in the GT1540T make it too much of a compromise, or can one still get good results assuming they use good technique and understand this model's limitations?

I used to use a Manfrotto 190 for this and it would flex if tourque pressure was applied to the head. However for most shooting conditions it would perform well. How would the GT1540T (traveler) compare to a 190?

[SunTsu]

If and when I get the GT1540T (traveler), I will use it primarily when travelling and shooting documentary (PJ) work. I usually shoot hand-held for this kind of fast paced stuff but I want a small (and useable) tripod that will not be a burden to carry around for those times when you just can't get away with hand-holding. (I use a sturdier tripod when the weight and size are not an issue).

Does the flex in the GT1540T make it too much of a compromise, or can one still get good results assuming they use good technique and understand this model's limitations?

I used to use a Manfrotto 190 for this and it would flex if tourque pressure was applied to the head. However for most shooting conditions it would perform well. How would the GT1540T (traveler) compare to a 190?
OK, so it sounds like you are aware that this product was designed for travel and lightweight purposes. Stability is secondary to the previous points so if you understand that, I am sure the 1540T will please. It's a heck of a lot of money for a travel tripod, but as far as light weight tripods go, it was still the best I could find.

IMO, you can still get good results with the 1540T. You hit the nail on the head by recognizing that you will need to work within the the model's limitations. This means strong winds, large heavy lenses (anything bigger than 70-200 f/2.8) will pose potential problems. This is not a tripod you want to use for critical images, but rather, something that will hold your camera stiller than your hand and one that you can use for self-timed shots. There is a hook at the bottom of the center column under which you can hang your camera bag to add weight to the tripod. The problem is that you can't hang too much because then the legs splay out.

It sounds to me like you understand the limitations of the tripod, so you will likely be happy with it.

[Tareq]

I have this tripod [GT1540T] but i am not an expert or so serious extreme user or photographer, so i can't tell you or give you a review about it.
All what i can say is that this tripod help me about 90-95% of my shooting so far and my results in Scotland were amazing because of this tripod, and i will tell you that i will use it always in my travel, just i need a good head for it to go complete.

[Quad]

I have this tripod [GT1540T] i can't tell you or give you a review about it.


Now now don't be modest just link to your review at B&H. It was good but I would have given 3-4 stars so Gitzo would have something to work on.

Glad you enjoyed Scotland, a tripod is always a good way to see how sharp those photos can be.

[Tareq]

Now now don't be modest just link to your review at B&H. It was good but I would have given 3-4 stars so Gitzo would have something to work on.

Glad you enjoyed Scotland, a tripod is always a good way to see how sharp those photos can be.

Oh great that you read about my review there but i don't think it is accurate or interesting as i am not a pro to give a clear review.
in all cases, i didn't see anyone give a review to this tripod there, so i decided to do myself, and i know it is not that perfect tripod but it served me alot and i can't be happy, just i wish i can take my Gitzo 5540 but it is a bit big to carry in my luggage.