Need a tripod

timfrommass · Dec 3, 2009

Ok never shopped for a tripod before, but I know I need one. I have a D90... how does one choose one? What are the different features I should be looking for. I'm not a "serious" photographer yet, so I DON'T want to spend a lot of money, but I don't want a piece of crap either. Just looking for advice on how to get started, thanks

-tim

Big Mike · Dec 3, 2009

There's nothing 'digital' about a tripod...so I moved your post into the 'Equipment' section.

Some say that when choosing a tripod, there are three main options...
1) Strong & Sturdy
2) Light Weight
3) Low Price
You only get to choose two of the three options.

Obviously, you want a tripod that will hold your gear. So consider the weight of your camera plus the biggest lens that you have (or plan to have).
A cheap tripod will probably do what you want, but it probably won't be the sturdiest and it may not last a long time. A good tripod, on the other hand, may last a lifetime. So consider it an investment.

If you ignore the cheapy tripods, most will have separate legs & head that are interchangeable. For the legs, consider the height and the weight. Also consider how the legs splay out (some go really wide so you can get low). Some have a centre column that can turn 90 degrees or that can be reversed completely, allowing you to get the camera low to the ground.
Aluminum is a common material for tripods...but there is also carbon fiber which is a lot lighter (but much more expensive).

Then you need to consider the head. There are many types & styles. It really comes down to personal preference, so I'd suggest going into a good camera store and getting your hands on some different ones, to see what you like.

You really can't go wrong with Manfrotto/Bogen tripods.

Ximensions · Dec 3, 2009

I've got the same question as the OP - thinking of going with the Manfrotto 190XPROB with the 804RC2 head - what do you think of that combination?

timfrommass · Dec 3, 2009

I hear what you say about it being an investment, but it seems like when you buy something for the first time you'll never know EXACTLY what you want until you start using it. In other words, I'm sure I'll buy a tripod and they say "geez I wish it did this or that, or didn't do this or that". So I'm not looking at throwing a ton of money at it, and then over time if I really do get a lot of use out of it and find that there are certain things I can't live without I'll consider "investing" in a better one. If that makes any sense

-tim

icassell · Dec 3, 2009

This may be an interesting read for you:

Tripods and Ball Heads by Thom Hogan

Big Mike · Dec 3, 2009

I've got the same question as the OP - thinking of going with the Manfrotto 190XPROB with the 804RC2 head - what do you think of that combination?

Look great....and if a 3-way head is what you want, then go for it.

I forgot to mention, make sure to get a head with a Quick Release Plate system.

icassell · Dec 3, 2009

Big Mike said:
I forgot to mention, make sure to get a head with a Quick Release Plate system.

Click to expand...

There are several after-market quick release plates available too (e.g. Really Right Stuff, Kirks, Giotto)

Ximensions · Dec 3, 2009

I read that the 804 RC2 does have a quick release plate system. I'm not entirely sure if I want a 3-way head yet.. still debating the merits for/against.. any advice on this will also be appreciated (as I'm sure the OP will also).

Big Mike · Dec 3, 2009

It's mostly personal preference. A ball head is quicker to adjust, but it's harder to make precise adjustments. A 3-way is good if you like to be very precise and make adjustments in just one plane. A pan & tilt head is more suited to video, I wouldn't really recommend it for still photography, but it might still be useful for certain situations.

I think my personal favorite might be a pistol grip ball head...just because it looks and feels cool.

kundalini · Dec 3, 2009

icassell said:
This may be an interesting read for you:

Tripods and Ball Heads by Thom Hogan

You've been stealing my thunder lately Ian with that link. Carry on.... it's a good link.

icassell · Dec 3, 2009

kundalini said:
icassell said:

This may be an interesting read for you:

Tripods and Ball Heads by Thom Hogan

Click to expand...

You've been stealing my thunder lately Ian with that link. Carry on.... it's a good link.

Sorry :blushing:

It IS a good link, but not financially feasible for many amateurs.

Montana · Dec 3, 2009

Big Mike said:
I think my personal favorite might be a pistol grip ball head...just because it looks and feels cool.

One of my ballheads is the pistol grip Bogen/Manfrotto. I don't like it in studio, but I bought it to use with heavy gloves in the cold winter months here in Montana. For that reason alone, its been awesome. But in the studio with heavier lenses it sags a slight bit when locked (just initial sag, not constantly moving). Its a pain for macro and close-up work for that reason.

Divatologist · Dec 4, 2009

I'm like the OP. I need a tripod, but I don't know where to begin. I read some stuff online. I saw this tripod listed on Adorama's website. Do you think this would be a good one for me to start out with. I'm not a serious photographer. It's more like a hobby. I would like to get some night photography in and I know the tripod would help. So, is this a good one for me and my equipment listed in my siggy?

7302YB Manfrotto (Distributed by Bogen) 7302YB Compact Tripod with Quick Release Ball Head and Leg Angle Selectors, Max. Height 56", Supports 7 lbs., Black