Tripod Questions

[photo_DAD]

I am in the market for a new tripod. I am 6'1'' so I need a tripod that is taller without extending the center column too much. I dont care about the weight. Budget is sub $400. I do nature/outdoor photography. I am currently lookig at the following two:

Slik Pro 780DX
Manfrotto 055X Pro B

They both seem pretty tall. One of the big differences is that the manfrotto has the center column that can be used verticle and horizontle. Any other tripods that are better than the manfrotto with the center column feature??? Do a lot of nature photographers use the column feature? Any other recommendations? Ball head or 3-Way? Thank you all.

 

[John Mc]

Theres a Few Giottos that do have the 2 way abbility with the central collum.
Benbo(not sure if thats there name in the states) but they also have this feature.
Im 5'11'' and shoot Landscape too,being slightly smaller then you,i still wanted a tall tripod.i got this http://www.warehouseexpress.com/buy-giottos-mtl9361b-mh5001-tripod-kit/p1518591,and its a ideal for me, and does all the Functions you'd want for landscape.

 

[CDRRoss]

I will also recommend Giottos.
I have the 8361 and I find it very versatile and I do not have to raise the center column at all for my 5'11" height. In fact I can't even fully extend the legs.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ...MT8361_MT_8361_Professional_Carbon_Fiber.html
One question though...does your budget include a head?

 

[mksjjs]

I'm 6'2" and was looking for the same. I ended up with the Giottos MT-7370 for $249.00. I think adorama has this tripod for $209.00 now. http://www.adorama.com/GTMT7370.html
I topped it with the PhotoClam Ballhead PC-36NS from http://reallybigcame...lam%20Table.htm I paid $199.00 and its a rock solid set up and perfect as far as height for me.

Manny

 

[photo_DAD]

Is the moving center column a necessary part? How often is it used in nature and outdoor photography? Ball head or three way? Thank you for all of the recommendations.

 

[John Mc]

I dont use it alot,but it is useful. its upto you regarding the head, im considering switching to a Ballhead,as its lighter,and alot easier to move to portrait.