Tripods

Just joined this group, you all have some really great shots, and i know most of you most likely use tripods to get them! I'm looking to buy one now, and i was wondering what tips or recommendations you all had about what brand, type, etc to get! Thank you!

requested information: Nikon D3000

according to nikon its: Approx. 485 g (1 lb. 1 oz.) without battery, memory card, or body cap

and my largest lense is a 200mm telephoto (Approximately 255 g/9.0 oz.)

hoping to eventually get a macro lens as well.

I do portraints, landscapes, occasional sports

ive heard that i should really get the ball head for easy motion so i will definetly take that into consideration, thanks!

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by John Daly on June 23, 2010 at 5:49pm

Alexandra,

A lot depends on the camera and lens you have, how much weight you have to hold steady. So get us that information.
Also, the type of photography you do, portraits, landscapes, macro, sports, etc.
Once I know some of this i can be more specific. I use a Manfrotto Tripod with a pistol grip head.

Permalink Reply by Alex R on June 23, 2010 at 7:53pm

I added the additional information! Thank you!

Permalink Reply by Carol Stark on June 23, 2010 at 6:23pm

I also use the Manfrotto with pistol grip ballhead. I have a lot of weight to support, so I have a heavy tripod. Kind of a drag to tote around.

Permalink Reply by John Daly on June 23, 2010 at 6:40pm

It is worth it. and the pistol grip is the best tripod head I have found.

Permalink Reply by Alex R on June 23, 2010 at 7:54pm

Yea thats something im sortve worried about, i move around a lot and I would use this in the city and 'bustling' places like that. unfortunetly im looking for the best of both worlds ha, but my camera not heavy so hopefully it wont be a problem?

Permalink Reply by Carol Stark on June 23, 2010 at 8:05pm

It would help if I had a carry strap when I'm out walking around. The only problem I run into here in the Detroit area is that with a nice tripod and long lens they think you're a 'professional' and don't want you to shoot with permits and whatnot. I also want to get a Gorillapod Focus made for heavier gear.

Permalink Reply by Alex R on June 24, 2010 at 1:24pm

sorry could you restate that? "The only problem I run into here in the Detroit area is that with a nice tripod and long lens they think you're a 'professional' and don't want you to shoot with permits and whatnot." do you mean without? becasue i could see how thatd be a problem.
Hopefully on my city jaunts it wont matter with the high level of tourism.

Permalink Reply by Carol Stark on June 25, 2010 at 3:49am

There are several places that consider anyone with a "big camera/lens" and sturdy tripod to be professionals. They want the shooter to obtain a permit (aka revenue generation), or not to sell any images without their permission. Some of my photo buddies and I have been chased away by security - even if shooting from sidewalks.

I haven't taken my tripod to NYC, but I understand they are fairly strict on the use of tripods, too. I usually carry a monopod. When in doubt, check it out. Some of the museums here will allow a tripod, others won't.

Permalink Reply by John Daly on June 25, 2010 at 7:29am

I have a TrekPod IV which looks like a walking or hiking pole bu converts to a tripod by spreading three small legs at the bottom and taking off the cap, which then give access to a magnet and clip for putting your camera on. It is great and I have never been questioned or stopped.

Permalink Reply by Alex R on June 25, 2010 at 10:26am

Thanks! good to know all my options.

Permalink Reply by Alex R on June 25, 2010 at 10:27am

also, can it be folded? my ideal would be that it fits into a backpack.

Permalink Reply by John Daly on June 25, 2010 at 1:18pm

It actually comes apart is three sections and has a carry bag of its own. Or you could put it in your back pack. Look it up on the web.