Need advice on tripod selection (on budget)

[D-B-J]

In this image, it looks like you haven't extended the legs fully, and used the column to reach the height you wanted.
FYI, the more/higher you raise the centre column, the less stable your camera will be. Best practice is to use the centre column as little as possible.

And while I do agree that it's very versatile (and cool) to be able to mount the column horizontally, that is certainly less then ideal when it comes to maximum support and sharpness.
Better than hand holding though.

I agree that at weird angles and with the center column fully extended, it may not be the most stable. But it's versatility and it's easy of use really makes it a winner in my book. AND it didn't cost a lot. I'm no pro, and I didn't want to spend a lot of money on a tripod, and this one was a perfect fit.

Best,
Jake

 

[NancyMoranG]

So if I extended the legs more and not the center column, it would be much more stable? I have D7000 and only 2 'bigger lenses' - 55-300 and 11-16.
I actually could spend in the $300 range including the mount, head, legs. I do hike but only 2-4 miles in a National Park setting and gradual elevations. So yes, weight can be a consideration for me at 57 yrs old...
Otherwise, I walk flat terrain, beach, trails.
I will add the 'accessory' at some point that will let me do night/ stars on a time lapse with the 'bar' that will move the camera while doing time lapse. (Don't know the name)
Thank you,
Nancy

 

[CmazzJK]

Well, I went up to the camera store thinking I was gonna end up with the Vanguard Alta 264AB, and while there I was shown the Promaster XC 525 w/ball head, which I really liked. I walked out with neither, and now I can't seem to find any solid review info on the Promaster online... Does anyone have any experience with this tripod? I really liked it but don't want to buy from a manufacturer I can't find reviews on.

 

[CmazzJK]

I bought the Vanguard today, not sure if anyone cares but I'm pretty stoked about it. Thanks for all the advice it made my decision easier.

 

[NancyMoranG]

For me it's a relief to make the decision! Let us know how you like it as there are alot of us still looking!
Nancy

 

[GlennT]

I won't go so far as to bash the Promaster brand, BUT that is generally the brand that camera shops are paid to push. Their markup is higher on Promaster products and the sales people get a bigger commission on Promaster gear. I'm sure much of their stuff is serviceable (i.e. usable), but I had one local salesman push a Promaster flash on me hard when I was looking at the Canon 430EX II. It was his "...preferred flash. He'd "...take the Promaster over the Canon any day." I didn't feel he had my best interests in mind, and that was thoroughly disappointing.

The Vanguard tripods have a solid reputation and a safe decision IMO. The Alta Pros come with more bells and whistle than any other tripod I've looked at. Multi angle center column, retractable spikes, includes a bag, and includes a ballast/stone bag.

 

[CmazzJK]

While she wasn't pushy, she definitely was pushing the promaster as being a better deal because of its warranty and its locking mechanisms for the leg extensions being more efficient. it seemed sturdy but I won't buy something that hasn't been tested by a lot of people, and vouched for.

 

[lambertpix]

...its locking mechanisms for the leg extensions being more efficient.

Was she talking about twist locks vs. flip locks? As far as I know, this is almost 100% a matter of personal preference. I find flip locks to be more efficient for me, but there are plenty of people out there that feel equally strongly about twist locks. It's probably quite common for a salesperson to project personal bias in their selling -- after all, people love to buy from a salesperson that's passionate about what they're selling.

Sounds like you wound up with the kit you really wanted, though, and that's all that really matters.