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05/05/2004 10:48:05 AM · #1 |
Hi everyone,
juz would like to find out...what makes a good tripod?? what are the things you need to look out for when buying a tripod? |
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05/05/2004 10:51:49 AM · #2 |
The main thing for me is how sturdy the tripod is.
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05/05/2004 11:35:24 AM · #3 |
Yes, sturdiness is the prime requirement. By sturdy, let's define what we mean...
1.) Provides for stability with the intended weight mounted at the highest possible height (resistance to tip-over)
2.) Rigidity. Minimize any vibration of the camera system
3.) Longevity. Design will endure hard use without loosening up
In addition to the three "sturdiness" criteria, I'd add the following:
1.) Flexibility in height. Can place the camera very low or high enough to place the viewfinder at a comfortable eye level.
2.) Weight. Heavy enough to damp vibration & provide stability, light enough to transport with ease. These needs may conflict. The "best" transportable tripod will not be the most stable. This conflict can be resolved by using added weight (on a hook on bottom of center column)
There are separate criteria for a head and the "best" choice again depends on intended use and some personal preference.
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05/05/2004 11:51:53 AM · #4 |
+ a good ball head, one with a large enough diameter and a smooth but firm tightening mechanism. There are various types available. Some are slow but fixed at any position (best for photographers who don't need to be quick and/or follow action), others are quick and relatively reliable, while some are not.
One thing to watch for and to test before you buy: does the camera sag at all after the head is tightened and locked when mounted with a long lens?
Scutenize, scrutenize, scrutenize. Good heads cost money. The best are over CDN $ 700 (just the head excluding the tripod).
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05/05/2004 12:48:51 PM · #5 |
Originally posted by JudeLeo:
Hi everyone,
juz would like to find out...what makes a good tripod?? what are the things you need to look out for when buying a tripod? |
the best one is the one which you are prepared to carry.
plus what the others said,
and for me :
a middle column which can be used as a horizontal arm
and legs which go 90 degrees
so I can get real real low to the ground.
(like the Manfrotto 190PRO with ballhead).
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05/05/2004 01:15:00 PM · #6 |
Originally posted by willem:
the best one is the one which you are prepared to carry. |
What he really meant is: the best one is the one which you are prepared for your wife to carry... :)
I like the Manfrotto tripods and heads. I use one myself and don't think I could ever go back to my original SunPack tripod again. |
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05/05/2004 01:32:48 PM · #7 |
I also recommend a water bevel! I have two in my tripod and I use them constantly to help me better align the tripd to the horizon or to the ground. :)
Arie
Yes, one you can carry. No point in having a tripod if you are not going to take it with you! :) |
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05/05/2004 04:41:51 PM · #8 |
Originally posted by mirdonamy:
I also recommend a water bevel! I have two in my tripod and I use them constantly to help me better align the tripd to the horizon or to the ground... |
You can purchase better bevels separately also, to fit in the hot-shoe on the body.
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