Which Head?

[Doobsy]

G'day,

After research, I'm down to two heads (No I'm not from Tasmania :)).

Photography style utilising the tri is more portraiture and night-time city-scapes.

The tri I have decided on is the Manfrotto 055X Pro B.

However, I can't make up my mind between the 486 RC2 Ball Head or the 804 RC2.

I haven't seen the 486 in the metal and don't know whether it has a spirit level or not which I am thinking would be necessary for level shots including any horizon :confused:

As I get better (and maybe get PS too), I would like to try pano's.

Does anyone have any suggestions, advice etc. that they would like to share please?

Cheers.

Benno

[Jim G]

What about the 488 RC2? Has the panning base the 486 lacks... makes panos easier!

[Doobsy]

Thanks for the suggestion (and the edit - wasn't sure what the diff. was...).

Is ball-head the way to go in your opinion?

[Jim G]

Thanks for the suggestion (and the edit - wasn't sure what the diff. was...).

Is ball-head the way to go in your opinion?

Absolutely without a doubt. Once you go ballhead you never go back :p I didn't realise the 804 wasn't a ballhead - I'd ditch that idea and take the 488RC2. After using one for a little while you'll know why. I use a Markins ballhead and it's sublime - not the faintest hint of movement when you tighten it.

[Doobsy]

Nice. Cheers mate.

[Jim G]

Nice. Cheers mate.

Whereabouts are you looking at getting it from? Photobuff/D-D/Quality Camera Sales do good prices on 'em.

[Doobsy]

D-D.
I almost bought a 450D from Ted's until someone put me onto their 'site and got the 40D for less!!!
I love 'em. They're just up the road from me so I save on shipping too!

[Jim G]

D-D.
I almost bought a 450D from Ted's until someone put me onto their 'site and got the 40D for less!!!
I love 'em. They're just up the road from me so I save on shipping too!

Nice one. Local stock is ridiculously more expensive in so many cases...

[Doobsy]

Appreciate your advice Jimbo.

[SuzyView]

I use the 488 RC as it is so easy to use and carries a heavy load. The cost is not cheap, but worth it. I have no complaints and I use it a lot.

[hw_]

here's both side by side. as you can see, the 804rc2 is quite bulky compared to the "compact" 486rc2. the 486rc2 does not have a spirit level. for nightscapes, the 804rc2 or 488rc2 may be a better bet for the independent panning option. but if your tripod legs have that ability, then the 486rc2 would be sufficient.

[Doobsy]

Thanks hw.

[Stealthy Ninja]

G'day,

After research, I'm down to two heads (No I'm not from Tasmania :)).




But I am.

Seriously, you mainland guys always make this joke. I wonder if some of you actually believe it. Maybe you think there is no internet in Tasmania or something... only apples and beer. :lol:

Now, I have to go and rub my shoulder. That scar is killing me.

:)

[Doobsy]

I know it's an old joke and apologies for my lack of wit.
One of my best mates is from Tassie and my Mum is currently living and teaching there so I do know it's not true...

[Stealthy Ninja]

I know it's an old joke and apologies for my lack of wit.
One of my best mates is from Tassie and my Mum is currently living and teaching there so I do know it's not true...


No, it is true. The Royal Hobart Hospital has a "postnatal head removing unit".

Would a Tasmanian Ninja lie? NEVER!
:lol: