Tripod Advice

[Lensmeister]

Hey all,

I'm in the market place for a new tripod. The one I have is a Cullman Titan and weighs in a 5kg it's a behemoth of a tripod.

What I want in a tripod is:

• Able to upturn the central column to do macro photography.
• Light weight enough to be able to carry it almost all day
• Comes with a carry bag
• Study in windy conditions
• Quick release plate
• Costs between £100-£150

I am looking at one of these three:

Manfrotto
Photo Kit With 804RC2 Head, 055XPROB Tripod VGI055XPROB,804RC2 - | Manfrotto


Giottos MTL9351B
Giottos - Premium Quality Tripods, Heads & Accessories

Red Snapper
Red Snapper RS-324 & RSH-12 Head

Advice please dear Photo brethren

 

[KmH]

I recommend the Giottos MT 9351B with the Manfrotto 804RC2 head. The head built-in on the MT 9351 won't accommodate a QR plate.
The Giottos tripod should include a nice padded carry bag, 3 leg warmers, and a small tool kit. http://giottos.com/

IIRC, the Manfrotto center column is triangular and cannot be rotated, does not come with a carry bag or tool kit, and only has 2 leg warmers.

For stability in windy conditions a tripod needs a weight hook, and sufficient weight capacity for the heaviest camera/lens combo and added weight. (capacity of at least 3x the heaviest camera/lens and added weight). Having weight hang low from a weight hook lowers the overall center-of-gravity, which improves stability.