Gitzo heads and legs

[Faraway]

Why do so many people seem to buy Gitzo tripods but not Gitzo heads? Are there problems? Particularly interested in the G1541T with ballhead for hiking.

[Traumuh]

Most people who purchase Gitzo legs would rather invest in heads from Markins, RRS, Kirk, etc. :) They are the best.

[ToyTrains]

I asked the same question before I bought my Gitzo legs and head.

[Faraway]

Which tripod and head did you get? Are you happy with them?

[ToyTrains]

I got the Gitzo GT3531S Series 3 6X CF tripod and the Gitzo GH3780QR Series 3 Magnesium Center Ball Head. The head comes with one quick release plate for the camera and I purchased another one for my 70-200 lens.

I really like them. The setup is much lighter than I expected (but then again this is my first carbon fiber tripod). The setup is rock steady.

I started by ignoring everyones advice about getting the QR plates, but ending up returning the original head within two days and getting the QR model.

[tvphotog]

This is a useful starting place for lightweight tripods that collapse to a short size. The Markins head is one of the best. You may not want one for travel, however.

If you want a light setup, read as much of the discussion as you have time for.

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=538298&highlight=1541t

[Faraway]

Very helpful advice, thank you. I have a 50D and use a 70-200 f4.0 so I think I will stick to the 1541T with Gitzo 1178M ballhead for travelling. Nice and light but sturdy.