Posted By: Hyperlink
Camera Tripods - 18/03/2015 14:42
Any recommendations for a relatively light/portable full size tripod? Looking to use it with either my DSLR or a spotting scope.
Posted By: barnacle
Re: Camera Tripods - 18/03/2015 15:43
Manfrotto 055 series - but they ain't cheap - three hundred notes for a new one with a head.
I got a Slik (or something like that) one from Costco. It seemed good though I had no idea. Subsequently some very experienced photographers have commented on how good it is.
Posted By: neil_r
Re: Camera Tripods - 18/03/2015 18:04
Manfrotto are regarded as the best but Slik stuff is also excellent. Have a look for some reviews and you will soon get the idea what is good and affordable these days.
Posted By: Gripped
Re: Camera Tripods - 18/03/2015 20:43
I've got a Velbon one. Good for the money.
Posted By: Edinburgh
Re: Camera Tripods - 18/03/2015 21:08
Have you tried Calumet?
I've bought some air-cushioned tripods from them, admittedly 10ft reach and only retract to about 3ft, but pretty good value at under £45.
Posted By: Hyperlink
Re: Camera Tripods - 19/03/2015 16:27
Thanks all
I was looking at the Manfrotto Befree but will look at Slik in Costco if they have them.
Posted By: Jim_Clennell
Re: Camera Tripods - 19/03/2015 17:16
Depending on what DSLR you have, consider the weight of the camera on the head. I bought MrsC a Velbon CX-888, as she wanted a light, portable, but reasonably sturdy tripod for taking on expeditions. It's brilliant for most things, but her Canon 7D made it bow its head and was simply too heavy.
Posted By: Hyperlink
Re: Camera Tripods - 19/03/2015 17:49
Indeed Jim.
The body weighs in at 0.5kg and the lens I mostly use is .9kg so it shouldn't be too taxing for a decent tripod the Manfrotto is rated up to 4kg.
I already have a Manfrotto ball joint head fitted to my shooting scope stand which is fine so that should not be an issue.
Posted By: barnacle
Re: Camera Tripods - 19/03/2015 19:16
Indeed. The Manfrotto has no problem with my 2kg large-format camera.
Posted By: oxfordSteve
Re: Camera Tripods - 19/03/2015 19:32
Another vote for Manfrotto. Got an 055XPROB with a ball head.....not sure I'd describe it as "relatively light" though!