Well, I took the plunge and ordered everything, here it is

[ClarkinBabler]

For better or worse:

Legs - Gitzo GT3541L Series 3 Carbon 6x Long 4 Section G-Lock Tripod

Head - Acratech GV2 Ballhead with Gimbal Feature, with all Rubber Knobs, Quick Release & Detent Pin with quick release plate

Bag - Tamrac 5770 Velocity 10x Pro Sling

Misc - Opteka Wireless Radio Remote Release

At this point I am asking for comments good or bad, or support after I tell my wife when it arrives!!!!!

Thanks the everyone here that has helped me reach my decision with your great posts

[Bushplane Ken]

I couldn't resist opening a post with "ordered everything" in the title. Have fun with your new stuff. Let us know how it all works out including initial and long term impressions.

[ClarkinBabler]

As someone who is kinda new to the hobby I plan on documenting ease of use, durability, customer service, etc with updates and photos.

Thats it! I will tell the wife its an educational investment!!!

[Mocows]

"All in the name of Science and Research" :)

[AKYPA_FAN]

Thats it! I will tell the wife its an educational investment!!!

dont think it will fly with my wife... :lol:

[Bushplane Ken]

Another approach is to just not say anything. If you don't have much gear (stuff) then the new stuff stands out but at some point it all starts to look the same. Besides, if it keeps you out of trouble and out of the bars then maybe it’s a good investment. I often comment about people that I meet that they need a hobby so they don't have so much time on their hands.:)

[ben_r_]

Awesome! Just out of curiousity though... Why not a Markins or RRS head?

[L.Morey]

I am sure you will enjoy all your new stuff

[ClarkinBabler]

Awesome! Just out of curiousity though... Why not a Markins or RRS head?

I looked at those, I KNOW thisone can handle the sidekick in the future. I also like the way the ball is open all around so no chance of grit to get inside of it. Good reviews for it also so I will see

[tvphotog]

That will be the most bulletproof and immovable tripod for what you want. Congratulations, mostly for putting up with all the points of view here. Use them all in the best of health.

[GMCPhotographics]

I went for the same Tripod legs (GT3541LS) and they really are very stable.
I put a Markins M20 on mine and it's fab. But to be honest, any of the premium brand Hall heads are perfectly adequate.

[ClarkinBabler]

It really is more than I wanted to spend, but like most things, if you buy quality first, its cheaper in the long run.

(gulp)

I hope!

[Bubble]

your combo is PERFECT. Enjoy your new toy. :)

[Bubble]

Awesome! Just out of curiousity though... Why not a Markins or RRS head?

Gimbal option for big lens later. :)

[RebeccaC]

It's easier to ask for forgiveness than permission. At least that's my husband's motto. Have fun with all your new toys.

[argyle]

As someone who is kinda new to the hobby I plan on documenting ease of use, durability, customer service, etc with updates and photos.

Thats it! I will tell the wife its an educational investment!!!

Hopefully, you shouldn't have a need for any of that...

[SteveNC]

Dare I ask the damage this made to your wallet?

[Bubble]

Dare I ask the damage this made to your wallet?

somewhere in the $1000+. :)

tripod: $700
ballhead: $350

[ClarkinBabler]

Dare I ask the damage this made to your wallet?

With the legs, head, new camera bag and new remote along with quick release plates, it was around $1300 shipped.

But I figured I could spend double that over the next 2-3 years if I didnt buy right the first time.

[MDJAK]

now all you need is a camera. ;)

nice purchase. Don't even tell the wife. make it as if you've had it forever, or tell her you bought it used for next to nothing from somebody desparate to get rid of it.

me

[Bubble]

With the legs, head, new camera bag and new remote along with quick release plates, it was around $1300 shipped.

But I figured I could spend double that over the next 2-3 years if I didnt buy right the first time.

Excellent attitude. DO IT RIGHT the first time. Poor man always pay twice. :) (this apply for those that always think adding TC will be the same as longer lens..lolz)

[ClarkinBabler]

now all you need is a camera. ;)


me

CRAP!!! I knew I forgot something. I do have an old pentax point and shoot until I can upgrade!!! :lol:

[zoom_zoom]

Ahhh.... the smell of nice new gear! Congrats! - not sure what to tell the wife though...

[Darhawk]

I looked at those, I KNOW thisone can handle the sidekick in the future. I also like the way the ball is open all around so no chance of grit to get inside of it. Good reviews for it also so I will see

Any chance of you letting us know, how you like your Acratech ballhead?

[Wilt]

"Honey, all this stuff will help me take better photos of the kids in school plays, playing school sports, better pictures of your aging parents at family events..."