Tripod question

[Epix]

I've been watching some Canon Explorer's of Light videos and most of the photographers are using tripods who's legs can move in practically any direction. Two short legs in front and a long third leg that comes straight back against a wall, ect. What's the name of this feature?

[Sean]

I think they just lower two of the legs, or change the angle on them. I don't think there is a tripod that does one leg longer, but you can make two legs shorter! Lots of tripod legs will open wider than "standard", it's a pretty common feature on most mid to upper range legs.

[Epix]

This is what I'm talking about:

338328

[jgrussell]

Same answer: you just change the angle of the legs (can be set easily with the Gitzo tripods, and it appears the image is of a Gitzo) and then open or close any individual leg as far as you need to.

[Epix]

Ok cool. I have a very cheap (Best Buy) tripod that has braces between the legs. I guess it's time to step it up.

[VwFix]

Take a look at stuff Like the monfrotto 190 series also they can do that and a lot more such as the horizontal boom which can be nice for similar situations.

[twiggles]

You could also check out Giottos tripod legs. I Love my 9371 set. You can pick these up for about $200. They are aluminium, not carbon fiber, but I couldnt justify spending 2x the amt for carbon...

[VwFix]

I was also curious can you use Monfrotto heads on the Giottos tripod legs?

[twiggles]

Legs and heads can be mixed and matched. The only thing you need to be sure of is the mounting screw size. Most heads can take the 2 most common sizes, and most legs include both size mounting posts.

[scorpio_e]

This is what I'm talking about:

338328
Not all tripods can do this. I believe my Bogen will. I'll have to check it out.

[hawkeye60]

You would also need a center column that can be shortened and/or reversed. Better tripods will have this feature as well.

[JohnJ80]

This is what I'm talking about:

338328

That's pretty much a standard Series 2 or Series 3 Gitzo CF tripod. They are typically regarded as the top end. All of them can do this, it's a standard feature from Gitzo.

J.