Manfrotto Tripod

[BecM]

I am headed to NY in June and would like to get a new Manfrotto Tripod. I am looking at the Manfrotto 190CXPRO3-3 and a Manfrotto 322RC2 Joystick Head.

I have a canon 50D and travel a lot so weight is a huge factor. Does anyone that already owns this tripod have any feedback on it? Reading the Band H website there seems to be mixed reviews. I will really only be using it for sunrise and night shots and I am VERY much an amateur at this point but want something that will last me for years.

Thank you!!!!

Bec

[andylo]

If there is chance you will stick your tripod in salt/sea water, better get a carbon fiber one.

[BecM]

Hi andylo, this model is carbon fibre :)

[andylo]

Blah... I need my coffee:D!!

[junqbox]

I used the 190 base for many years and often found it to be a bit short for my height. I ended up replacing with an 055. I also use the 322 head and find it to be very handy and supportive. The only drawback I found with it is swinging it up into portrait mode and losing some lateral movement forwards and backwards. I got around this by buying an L-Plate for the camera and leave the head in it's 'landscape' mode. L-Plate works well as a 'bash' guard too. I still use the 190 (with 3 way head) for my LF camera as it's a very sturdy tripod and the LF doesn't require as much adjustment for positioning with the head.
The other benfit of using that style of head (over a 3 way) is it can fit into a tube type bag for travelling instead of having the head offset. For a trip to Tassie a couple of years ago I made a plastic road case for the 055/322 combo from plumbing parts, works a treat, very solid.

[BecM]

Junkbox - thank you!! I looked at the 055 but went with the smaller size of the 190 only because of the travel aspect. I have no idea what an L plate is so I will go and google it :) I have had two wasted photo sessions with a very lightweight Manfrotto and a cheapy tripod, I really needed some reassurance that this tripod was good.

Again thanks for your reply.

[Kym]

L plates e.g. http://reallyrightstuff.com/Items.aspx?code=LPLATES&key=cat

Also: Tripods and other supports

[BecM]

Thanks for the links Kym :)