Tripod recommendations

[dlegend]

Reading all these tripod threads got me thinking about how I need a tripod. I always seem to just rush my pictures and I don't get the results I want. So, what tripods/heads do you all recommend?

I'm an amateur. I don't sell my pics for money. I currently have a D40, kit zooms and the 35 1.8 AF-S lens. Ideally I'd love to upgrade to a D90 or 300 (or whatever the equivalent is when I've saved up enough to afford one). I also don't expect to spend $20 and have a good tripod.

 

[Grimace]

Reading all what threads? There are dozens of threads on the very topic which you just asked? Try a search and you'll have a wealth of information.

 

[Designer Dale]

I'm surprised anyone missed Let's Talk Tripods

Dale

 

[kyzen]

You'll find more in-depth information in a lot of other threads here, however I'll go ahead and suggest the Manfrotto 7302. It's not the best tripod in the world, but it's also far from the worst. It's a good balance of quality and cost imho, and all of my friends who have purchase one to replace a $20 Walmart POS have been happy with it.

http://www.amazon.com/Manfrotto-730...1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1265932016&sr=8-1

 

[AlaskaMoose]

Another nice one is Manfrotto 055X Pro B ($140-180)
Ball head: 488RCA (around $115.00)

Amazon offers very nice deals, maybe better than the prices I wrote above.

 

[maddagascar]

yupp, i was gonna get the 7302 tripod..but then ended up getting the 190XB with the 496RC2 head on it..it came as a package from B&H.

it has good reviews and can hold up a lot, as well as get low from 3inch above the ground.

4lb's, which is not as bad. just ordered it last night soo i'm very excited to get my first tripod. didn't think it was that necessary to get one, but it really is for night shots.

from my newbie tip, don't cheap out on it.

i know everybody wants to save, but would you rather spend less on a tripod then spend more when that cheap tripod falls over with your lens and camera attached to it?


but the 7302 does seem like a great tripod, i just wanted a little more peace of mind.

 

[neutrino23]

If you have a really nice professional camera store in the area go over and take a look. It is really helpful to put your hands on them and lift them to get a feel for sturdiness and weight.

 

[mac mac mac]

Need a tripod recommendation

After searching through the forms, I have decided to get a Manfrotto tripod for my Canon T1i. But there are so many models and combinations to choose from so I need your help please. These are some of the sets I found from B&H Photo:

- Manfrotto 190xb with 496rc2 $204.90
- Manfrotto 7302YB $129.90
- Manfrotto 190xb with 498rc2 $250.00

The guy that I talked to at B&H said that I should get the 496rc2 head. He said the 498 is overkilled for my camera. I also saw the 460mg for $105. The reason I am interested in the 498 and 460mg is because of the panorama feature. Can the 496 do the same? I mainly shoot landscapes, some macros and panorama. I don't want to spend anything more than $250, and something not too heavy. That's why I don't include the 055 since I don't want to carry the extra weight when I go hike or travel. I am 5'10". Any models should I consider? What would you recommend. Thank you.

 

[mac mac mac]

Also, what's the difference between the xb and xpro series? Which one would be better for what I shoot? Thank you.

 

[jampat]

Also, what's the difference between the xb and xpro series? Which one would be better for what I shoot? Thank you.

Typically 'Pro' in Manfrotto numbers means the center column can be inserted horizontally through the legs as well as the typical vertical orientation. It could be useful in some situations, but it does make the legs slightly larger and heavier to accomodate the horizontal column.

http://www.cameraworld.co.uk/images/products/large/Manfrotto 190XPRO_804 280.jpg

Fwiw, I bought Aluminum Manfrotto legs (190CLB) and they stay at home most of the time. They are relatively heavy and damn cold on the hands. I find myself borrowing a carbon 055 whenever I want a tripod (much larger, seems to be slightly more stable and lighter).

 

[rhomsy]

I just bought the Gitzo Basalt 2830 for $475. It is a light and very sturdy tripod. It has the benefits of carbon fiber, but about half the price. Basalt is cheaper than carbon fibers.

It doesn't transfer vibrations like aluminum, and it doesn't get cold. It is lighter than aluminum as well. An absolute fantastic tripod.