Which Head?

G'day,

After research, I'm down to two heads (No I'm not from Tasmania ).

Photography style utilising the tri is more portraiture and night-time city-scapes.

The tri I have decided on is the Manfrotto 055X Pro B.

However, I can't make up my mind between the 486 RC2 Ball Head or the 804 RC2.

I haven't seen the 486 in the metal and don't know whether it has a spirit level or not which I am thinking would be necessary for level shots including any horizon

As I get better (and maybe get PS too), I would like to try pano's.

Does anyone have any suggestions, advice etc. that they would like to share please?

Cheers.

Benno

What about the 488 RC2? Has the panning base the 486 lacks... makes panos easier!

Thanks for the suggestion (and the edit - wasn't sure what the diff. was...).

Is ball-head the way to go in your opinion?

Doobsy wrote in post #6270321
Thanks for the suggestion (and the edit - wasn't sure what the diff. was...).

Is ball-head the way to go in your opinion?

Absolutely without a doubt. Once you go ballhead you never go back I didn't realise the 804 wasn't a ballhead - I'd ditch that idea and take the 488RC2. After using one for a little while you'll know why. I use a Markins ballhead and it's sublime - not the faintest hint of movement when you tighten it.

Nice. Cheers mate.

Doobsy wrote in post #6270334
Nice. Cheers mate.

Whereabouts are you looking at getting it from? Photobuff/D-D/Quality Camera Sales do good prices on 'em.

D-D.
I almost bought a 450D from Ted's until someone put me onto their 'site and got the 40D for less!!!
I love 'em. They're just up the road from me so I save on shipping too!

Doobsy wrote in post #6270343
D-D.
I almost bought a 450D from Ted's until someone put me onto their 'site and got the 40D for less!!!
I love 'em. They're just up the road from me so I save on shipping too!

Nice one. Local stock is ridiculously more expensive in so many cases...

Appreciate your advice Jimbo.

I use the 488 RC as it is so easy to use and carries a heavy load. The cost is not cheap, but worth it. I have no complaints and I use it a lot.

here's both side by side. as you can see, the 804rc2 is quite bulky compared to the "compact" 486rc2. the 486rc2 does not have a spirit level. for nightscapes, the 804rc2 or 488rc2 may be a better bet for the independent panning option. but if your tripod legs have that ability, then the 486rc2 would be sufficient.

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Thanks hw.

Doobsy wrote in post #6270289
G'day,

After research, I'm down to two heads (No I'm not from Tasmania ).

But I am.

Seriously, you mainland guys always make this joke. I wonder if some of you actually believe it. Maybe you think there is no internet in Tasmania or something... only apples and beer.

Now, I have to go and rub my shoulder. That scar is killing me.

I know it's an old joke and apologies for my lack of wit.
One of my best mates is from Tassie and my Mum is currently living and teaching there so I do know it's not true...

Doobsy wrote in post #6283277
I know it's an old joke and apologies for my lack of wit.
One of my best mates is from Tassie and my Mum is currently living and teaching there so I do know it's not true...

No, it is true. The Royal Hobart Hospital has a "postnatal head removing unit".

Would a Tasmanian Ninja lie? NEVER!