Tripod Heights

[huntersdad]

As I'm currently conducting my research for a tripod worthy enough to use with my 500, I'm realizing that tipods measurements aren't always easy to decipher. I've seen alot of reviews of tripods in the 60" max height range where people say they're 6'2" and the viewfinder is eyelevel after adding a head and camera. Some how I can't that being exactly correct.

Can anyone tell me, when a manufacturer states a given height w/o column, is it measured at the first leg locking angle?

[Jon]

Yes, a maximum height without center column will be at the leg angle that gives them the maximum height, IOW with the legs at their closest-in setting.

[RPCrowe]

Unfortunately, many manufacturers provide height specifications for their tripods only with the center column raised to its maximum height (and least stability).

Remember, that to avoid stooping; the camera viewfinder only needs to be at eye level which is a few inches below a person's total height. Since the geography of heads are different, I would suggest that a prospective tripod purchased measure the height of the eyes. This can easily be done with a tape measure.

The head you use on the tripod/monopod adds a few inches to the equation and the viewfinder is a few inches above the base of the camera, adding those few inches to the height of the package.

For general use, I like a tripod and demand a monopod which will elevate the viewfinder to eye level after mounting the head. It is much more comfortable to use a camera mounted at this height and you can definitely follow a moving subject more efficiently.

However, there can be something said in favor of a shorter tripod for travel and boonie tromping. I modified a SLIK Pro 330DX tripod into my travel and boonie tromping pod by replacing the stock center column with the optional shorter column and by substituting a very lightweight, but stable, Adorama Flashpoint F-1 Arca Compatible, magnesium ball head. The tripod is fairly short in height but, I will often compensate for the lack of height by using a right angle finder. Looking down to compose my shot is easy for me since I grew up shooting with a twin lens reflex camera. The tripod is a jewel to travel with because it weighs only one-pound and eleven-ounces but, since I can use a RRS L Plate it is sturdy enough to support my 40D and 70-200mm f/4L IS lens even in windy conditions.

I will be carrying this tripod and a Calumet carbon fiber monopod (.95 pounds) on a 15 day trip to China this spring.

I use a Giottos MT8180 as my full size tripod. I have attached images of the MT-8180 and the modified SLIK Pro 330DX side by side.