Tripod thoughts?

[DzRbenson]

Been a little busy over xmas, So now its time to buy my tripod. I have had a look at the Manfrotto ball heads and just don't think they are as good as the levers.

So I think im going to get the

Manfrotto 190xProb
Manfrotto 804RC2 Head

Does this sound like a good combo? The max it will be carrying is the Sony A350 and a 70-300G lens.

Or would the 488RC4 be a better head.

Edit: I know there are alot of threads on this, But I want to buy this tomorrow, So really need some advice :)

[Kym]

I have that setup and it works.
BUT I'm tall and next I'll get a 055 pod. The 190 is a bit short for me.
So... try it in the shop first!

http://www.bythom.com/support.htm

Also... http://www.ausphotography.net.au/forum/showthread.php?t=22038

[Bunyip]

I'm going to sound like a snob here. I think that the Arca-swiss style plates are heaps better than the Manfrotto ones. Tragically, the plates and the heads that hold them are available from the USA. I have a Markins Q10, which is superb. Can't fault the Manfrotto tripods though.

[DzRbenson]

I have that setup and it works.
BUT I'm tall and next I'll get a 055 pod. The 190 is a bit short for me.


I tried it in shop, The 190 is very short, however the 55 is to big. But to get around this my A350 has a tilt lcd liveview.

I can pick this setup up for $314....

Just dont know If I should get the ball head or not,

[Kym]

Depends on your needs...

Ball head: The head is build on a type of ball joint that allows for swift shifting of the position of the camera. These are ideal for photographing people and animals where fast movement is required.

Pan/Tilt: This model is usually found on the more basic systems, with just an up-swing and a down-swing and left/right. Good for general all round use but can be tedious and limiting for more complex situations.

Three Way: The three way head is more precise than the ball head and the pan/tilt. It is more functional in the fact that it allows for three separate movements independently. They are considerably slower to get the camera in the position you want it but they do allow for finer, more accurate framing. These are great for landscapes, still life, and product photography, where a patiently set up and well composed shot are the key considerations.

[DzRbenson]

Thats where its hard for me, I will need it for candids, but I will also be using it for framing

[B D H]

Hi

I bought the 190XProB with the 804RC2 pan head, it's the one with the hoizontal & vertical centre column which is great for macro shots,

I love it ,I'm 6' tall and it's not a problem heightwise.

The camera shop at Birkenhead Point where I bought it was selling them for $269.00,

However I felt the need to also buy a 486rc2 which has a larger movement range,& is quicker to set & also works well with the monopod
It's all good

Bryan

[J.davis]

I just bought a Benro tripod and three way head - good reviews and doesn't cost the earth.
Follow the link to the shop in sydney
http://www.photo-shop-studio.com

[Buddah]

Hi Dazza

I have the 190XPROB and the 804RC2 and am quite happy with it. Rugged unit, has survived a lot of rough handling overseas. Vanbar in Melbourne are still doing the combo for $269 as well http://www.vanbar.com.au/.

Claude

[RaoulIsidro]

The great thing about tripods is they never grow out of style or upgraded frequently like camera models, and it's up to the user to decide to switch to a newer one.
The tripod I use the most is a silver Manfrotto #055 with a Manfrotto 486RC2 Head.

[phild]

I've got an older model Manfrotto 190 CLB and a Benro Ballhead. It's adequate for my gear and not too heavy. I have my eye on the Carbon Fibre Benro Travel Angel (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=664575), not cheap but it folds up to a very short length and light weight.

[TAYLORW619]

I have the Manfrotto 055XPROB and 498RC2 head. Fantastic setup, can't fault it so far. This may be a good head to look into if thinking about getting the 055XPROB. The friction control has been useful to get a precise frame.