I've been thinking about getting a better tripod (I spent about $50 at Target for my current one to give you an indication of where I'm coming from). The thing that frustrates me right now is there isn't as much adjustment in the head as I'd like.

I was looking at Bogen, but geez there are a lot of different options. I gather their tripods are made by either Manfrotto or Gitzo. Is one manufacturer preferred?

What should I be looking for?

Thanks in advance!

Dave

 

Bogens tripods are made by Manfrotto in Italy, Gitzo is an independent company (French) I have one of each - a Bogen 3221 in black with a Linhof ball head, and Gitzo 224 Reporter with a Gitzo head. I also have a Gitzo monopod - very handy as well. I like the locking features on the Gitzo a bit better - it may not be as easy to use as the Bogen, but I think it locks down better height wise. The Bogens are going to be less expensive - my recommendation is to buy the best you can afford. The models I have can hold medium format cameras with their respective heads. But I wouldn't go any lower in the lineup for an SLR or a DSLR.

 

Thanks Dan!

Budget is an issue since I'm also wanting to purchase an SB-600 or SB-800 speedlight sometime soon too.

After looking at it more last night, I'm leaning toward 3221 legs with a Bogen 488RC4 quick release ball head.

 

3221 is a solid choice...let me know what you end up getting. One thing about the quick release plates - be REALLY careful. Let's just say I watched a D1X with 17-35 2.8 Nikkor fall from over my shoulder in slow motion to the sidewalk.....

 

I have a Bogen 3025 tripod with a 3030 head and an extra Manfrotto 486RC2 compact ball head (that I mostly use with a videocam on a suction mount).

Don't ask me about the price of the tripod 'cause it's been so long since I bought it. If I were to get a new one, I'd try and get one with at least a bubble level.

 

Thanks for the tip Dan. I may reconsider the quick release plate. That would be an expensive mistake for me (not as expensive as a D1X and a 2.8 wide angle lens, but expensive none the less).

 

Check this lil gadget out...

http://www.photosolve.com/eShop/10Ex...de=SPIRITLEVEL

 

Before I walk into the photo store acting like a complete idiot what's ballpark price on a Bogen or Gitzo? We always had nice Bogen's available to us in my photography classes so I never purchased my own, but since I'm making the DSLR plunge now I figure I may as well pick up a nice tripod as well.

 

Quick Release plates are not the issue, unless you are exceeding their capacity. I've use Bogen Quick Release plates to support $25,000 professional video cameras for the past 15 years and have never had a problem before. I also use lighter weights versions for my digital still cams. When used properly, I trust them.

You just need to be absolutely sure that when you lock it in, its truly locked in, and this is as simple as snapping it in, and wiggling it to make sure it's snug. Given a choice to shoot with or without a plate, I'd take a quick release plate ANYDAY for the pure convenience.


KYLE:
Go check out B&H Photo for street pricing. www.bhphotovideo.com to get an idea of what the cheapeast pricing can be. If you want to know what store pricing would be like, visit Samys Camera or Ritz Camera which tend to be higher.

 

I think the quick release failure was due more to the age of the base than anything. First time I have had a camera do that...it was not something I wish to repeat.

 

Just got back from the photo store with Manfrotto 3001N legs and a 3029 head. I opted against the 3030 which is the same head just with quick release... I'm not sure it was the best idea. I used quick release for all my classes and it was really nice... I may go back and exchange.

Something I'm pretty sure I'm going to go back and exchange is the 3001N for the 3001PRO legs... after thinking about it more and more the advantages to the pro seem worth the extra $30. The bar that the head sits on pulls out and slides in horizontally so you can drop the tripod more or less to the ground. It also has quicker release legs...

Man... I haven't even gotten my camera yet and I'm already buying more stuff for it.

 

I'll second that. I have a Bogen 3236 with a 3057 head and quick release that I use for an 8x10 with no problems.

Just a little note, I tried to put the tripod in the Mini for the first time, and it will not lay on the floor of the boot.

 

My bogen 3221 tripod showed up yesterday. I can't believe I didn't do this earlier. It's just so much more solid and easy to adjust.


Thanks again Dan!

 

Enjoy the 3221! I think it's a good price/performer, as we used to say when I was a computer weenie for a living. I have a Gitzo 1340 with a Kirk BH-1 ballhead, which I love, but it was a bit pricey.

IMO, the best quick-release system is the Arca-Swiss style. They lock very solidly and, if you get the Really Right Stuff plates, have a safety stop to keep them from sliding off. See http://www.reallyrightstuff.com/

A good tripod is one of the very best things you can buy to improve your shots. I think you've made a good choice.

Mark

 

Good choice Dave...what head did you end up getting?