322RC2 Grip-Action Ball Head Vs. 488 Ball Head 0 or 4

[anthlover]

I think I have settled on Manfrotto 190XPROB not the XB with either the
322RC2 Grip-Action Ball Head Vs. 488 Ball Head.

I am of course interested in all opinions in General but I am mostly trying to decide between heads. I mostly do my personal family shots. I also sometimes use a tripod also for a Laser level when my wife wants to hang frames.

I do not have very heavy equipment. At the Moment a Rebel XT, Tamron 17-50 2.8, and Sigma 530DG Flash. I probably will swap bodies at some point a t1i or its successor.

I currently have a really cheap short tripod that like $30. It is a little short for me and I am 5-9. And for the laser level its about 18 inches too short. I had to put the tripod on plastic bins.

[DANATTHEROCK]

I have the 322 and it is a cool head. Easy to adjust composition of course with the grip. One thing, if you will be shooting panoramics, this is not the head to use. But for "regular" shots, family, portraits, etc.. this is an excellent head. Perhaps you have an interest in macro since you are getting the xprob which goes to the ground and the main column swings out. Nice tripod. I had the 190xb, upgraded to a 055xprob a few weeks back. Awesome tripod and I love the way it gets to the ground. Nice tripods for macro shots for sure.


I also have the Manfrotto 488 ball head with RC2 adapter plate. Awesome ball head if you are looking at something in this style. I prefer it for landscapes. Easy for getting panoramics and such. I actually use it more than the 322, but like I said, it depends on what you are photographing.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/272779-REG/Manfrotto_by_Bogen_Imaging_488RC2_488RC2_Midi_Ball _Head.html


Just wanted to add, the 055 series of the Xprob is taller than the 190 version. Much sturdier, heavier, beefier, as well compared to the 190. I had the 190 and got the 055. Big difference. You mention needing a taller tripod is why I say. Check out the specs on B&H. The 055 is taller, bigger, etc.. Both are nice tripods though.

[anthlover]

Thx. Yeah I thought about that one too. I was debating the extra weight. I don't hand enough pics to justify doing it just for that.

[Woolburr]

I have a 190XPROB with a 322RC2 on it...for quick and light, it is a great combo. It will even hold my 1Ds with a 70-200 f/2.8 L IS with no problem...but that is pushing things about as far as I want to push them weight wise...it will certainly be tall enough for you, I'm 6'3" and it works fine for me.

[anthlover]

thx