Mini tripod

[JAB1]

Hi.....am about to go on a west Texas reptile and amphibian shoot....need a mini tripod for taking macros of lizards, insects, etc....sturdy....which one would you recommend? I am shooting with a 10D and 100mm macro lens....thanks..

[Tapeman]

I have a Velabon Mini F, which is quite small and gets close to the ground. I use it with a Velabon Macro Slider. Tripod about $60. Macro slider about $90.

I don't know what you have for a tripod now but you might want to get a full size tripod that allows you to spread the legs out wide enough to get the camera low to the ground.

I have the Gitzo 1228 and with the short colum (optional of course) I can get the bottom of the camera to about 4" from the ground. I use this set-up much more than my mini tripod.

[DocFrankenstein]

My vote for gitzo G2220/explorer too...

Tapeman has the same tripod in carbon fiber if I'm not mistaken. IMO the weight difference is not that great, but I didn't carry if for the whole day either.

It's sturdy, easily adjustable and holds in place. With the right head, it gets VERY close to the ground.

Cheers

[Mikelite80]

I second the Velabon Mini F if you really want a small sterdy trippod. Great for leaving in the car or traving with when taking pictures isn't your big concern. I really like the legs on the mini F, you can level it on any surface. Works great on the hood of my car too!

Mike