Tripod Help

[SpooledAWP]

So I've searched a bit and have heard alot of good reviews on Manfrotto tripods, but am still somewhat in the dark about exactly what to look for.

What are your thoughts on this, as it fits my budget perfectly: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/551339-REG/Bogen_Manfrotto_190XDB_F_390RC2_190XDB_Tripod_Legs _Black_.html

[gofer]

Have you had a look at the Manfrotto Configurator? It will tell you which Manfrotto tripod setups are suitable according to the information you put in. Have a look here:

http://www.manfrotto.com/Jahia/news/site/manfrotto/pid/16203/lang/en and click on 'take me to the configurator'

[Lowner]

I imagine from your location that you are a student and therefore cash is not available in unlimited quantities?

If thats the case, and your photographic ambitions are not excessive, then I see no reason why the 190 and 390rc2 head should not be perfect for you.

It is very easy to sit here and pontificate about better (more expensive) legs, better (even more expensive) ball heads and better (criminally more expensive) ArcaSwiss QR clamps and plates. But we all had to start somewhere and its far, far better than my first tripod.

If that sounds "high and mighty", I apologise, its not meant that way at all.

The only advise I'd offer if you go ahead with it, is about the RC2 plate.

Put some double sided sticky tape between the camera and the plate, because there is a tendancy for the thing to move just when you don't want it to.

Richard

[SpooledAWP]

I imagine from your location that you are a student and therefore cash is not available in unlimited quantities?

If thats the case, and your photographic ambitions are not excessive, then I see no reason why the 190 and 390rc2 head should not be perfect for you.

It is very easy to sit here and pontificate about better (more expensive) legs, better (even more expensive) ball heads and better (criminally more expensive) ArcaSwiss QR clamps and plates. But we all had to start somewhere and its far, far better than my first tripod.

If that sounds "high and mighty", I apologise, its not meant that way at all.

The only advise I'd offer if you go ahead with it, is about the RC2 plate.

Put some double sided sticky tape between the camera and the plate, because there is a tendancy for the thing to move just when you don't want it to.

Richard
Yeah, I'm a student so funds are not infinite, but I have have definately have some to spend and would like something on the quality end that is a.) going to be good for a starter (n00b, beginner, etc.) and b.) last me a few years at least.

Thanks for the advice though!

[Lowner]

If you want something sturdier and are prepared for more expense, a reasonable compromise might be the Manfrotto 055 in place of the 190, with the Markins M3 ball head?

Even that combo is not top of the range, its possible to spend loads of cash. But we all have limits and I've found the 055PROB (since replaced in their line up with a newer design) works well for my needs. I matched it to the Markins M10 and RRS B2 LR 11 quick release clamp only fairly recently.

I believe it would be a mistake to go too expensive in the early years. Let your photographic development lead you. I have worked with a photographer from a UK sailing mag recently and his tripod is a disgrace, held together with sticky tape. His cameras are pretty well worn as well! But he produces front cover quality images with it.

Richard

[SpooledAWP]

Yeah, my thoughts exactly. For the stuff I am going to be using a tripod for and the fact that I am just getting into it, I don't really need or want to drop a ton of cash. I know thousands can be spent on a tripod, but as you said, the best of the best isnt everything in some cases.

The 055's are a bit out of my price range at the moment, though.