I posted last year on Tripods For Tall People and got some helpful advice. I've finally got to the point where I feel comfortable spending $750 on tripod legs, but I'm still having a really hard time deciding which set of legs to order. It's really come down to a choice between flexibility/convenience and portability.
In my original thread, I was basing my choice on whether the tripod would get my camera to eye level. I've since discovered that it's a bit more complicated. Obviously there are a lot situations where the subject dictates the tripod's height. However, there are many cases where it's preferable to have the tripod at a comfortable standing height, such as long distance wildlife/landscape photography. Furthermore, in these situations, you probably actually want the viewfinder a few inches BELOW your eye level, so you can see the top LCD and look over the camera at your subject.
With that in mind, it's possible the 57.5" height of the 3540LS would be acceptable for most situations. My eye level is 71", and my AS head, lens collars, and camera take up about 9". Aiming up at the sky or birds in a tree would definitely require some stooping. I'm also concerned about whether having the tripod legs at max extension would adversely affect the stability or vibration damping, especially considering I am thinking of purchasing a 500/4 at the end of the year. The major benefit the 3540LS has over the 3540XLS is the 6" shorter folded length (under 22"), which makes it much easier to strap to a backpack or place in a carry-on bag. It's also half a pound lighter, which isn't as big a deal.
What the 3540XLS has going for it is incredible height flexibility. It's almost the same folded length and weight as the 3530LSV (a 3 section tripod), and with three sections extended, it's about the same height. You get a further 20" of height to play with for uneven ground, hills, overhead shots, etc. compared to the average "eye level" tripod. Someone described it as "two tripods in one," which seems like a good description. Unfortunately, it's also 6" longer retracted than the 3540LS. I'm concerned it would not be as easy to carry around with me when hiking (short hikes) or travelling by air.
So, as I said, it comes down to flexibility/convenience vs. portability. The 3540LS is JUST ABOUT tall enough for level shooting on flat ground, but that is at full extension of a 4 section tripod. It's also more difficult to shoot up, and I lose out on the overhead aspect. With the 3540XLS, I lose out on the portability over the sake of a few inches of height. It's frustrating; Gitzo used to make a 65" tripod that would be PERFECT for someone of my height. Now there is a big gap in their lineup for anyone taller than about 6'.
I've been thinking about this since my original post last year, and I just can't make up my mind. Which aspect do I give up on? I want to decide today and just order the damn thing!
