desktop tripod for macro photography

Vic Vinegar · Jul 18, 2017

Hi all. I have an a6000 and I recently got their 30mm macro lens and I want to do some flower photography with it. The problem is that my hands shake so I need a tripod that I can put on my dining room table and will let me get very close to the table. I saw some of the ball joint looking tripods online for about $15 and I don't know if those are any good. I want mine to be able to form into any configuration and keep my camera steady. Like if I have a large flower then I can just tilt it upwards and put it close to the flower. Or if I want to focus stack some coins or something on the table, I can do that. Does that make sense? The a6000 and the 30mm lens are very light and I don't think I need anything fancy. I was hoping to spend less than $75. Any thoughts? Or is there anything you guys do that helps you get ultra close photos of flowers? Thanks!

astroNikon · Jul 18, 2017

@Braineack May know as he has an a6000 and a smaller travel tripod.

I'm wondering about the close focus distance and how it may conflict with your requirements.

dxqcanada · Jul 18, 2017

Find a used MeFoto Daytrip

RowdyRay · Jul 18, 2017

dxqcanada said:
Find a used MeFoto Daytrip

Like this one.

MeFOTO DayTrip Mini 2-Section Aluminum Tripod Kit with Q00 Ballhead & Quick Release - Red

petrochemist · Jul 19, 2017

It's usually possible to set up a standard tripod close to the edge of the table. If that doesn't suit something like the gorilla pod (there are several versions with different weight capacities) or even a monster pod should do the job nicely.
Remember in many cases the subject can be moved a little too. For macro of coins etc. I often find moving the subject small amounts to be easier than the camera, especially if the coins are on a piece of paper/card...

Braineack · Jul 19, 2017

I'd look at a Silk Mini Pro.

Mr. Shutterbands · Jul 20, 2017

Take a look at the KF Concept 72" tripod with the horizontal arm. It costs more than your budget - but it is very flexible for a lightweight camera like your a6000 and macro lens. I use this for product photography for my website and printed brochures. Maybe you can find a used one on eBay. It is much more useful than some of the table-top tripods available. You could also benefit from a remote shutter release like the Sony RM-VPR1 wired remote if you want to really get sharp images - or you can use your self timer to snap the shot.