I need a lightweight tripod than collapses small...

Can anyone recommend a lightweight tripod that collapses down to a nice compact size. I'm not bothered if it's not quite as tall as the others at full height, but i need to be able to carry it in/on my backpack when out on the bike/skis.

Thanks in advance for your recommendations

Alternative suggestion: Gorillapod (SLR Zoom version). Obviously it has much more limited scope than a full tripod, but it is much more compact!

In many ways it's of limited use to use a lightweight compact tripod. They just don't keep the camera stable. A strong Leica-style table top tripod can be used on the tops of walls, to clamp up against a tree and can be quite useful. A monopod helps some people and is not too onerous to carry. The Gorilla-Pod I have heard good things about but I've no direct experience of it. Maybe a bean bag can be helpful as well.

Otherwise, use SR, don't be afraid to up the ISO if the light is failing and keep as stable as you can by utilising what is around you. There is nothing more stable than say placing the camera on top of a solid wall as you fire the shutter.

I never carry tripods out into walking (or biking) territory.

I've not used my Gorillapod outdoors yet (got it at Christmas), but it seems to support the camera quite well. You need to add a swivel head* and quick-release plate** for decent practicality though.

* eg http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=120330798214

** eg www.hiltonphoto.co.uk/products/details/32883.html

Velbon do some light weight and pretty compact tripods - I've got a CX 444 which I've found is OK for most situations but I'd not trust it with a long lens (prime or zoom). Also, the max weight rating is fairly modest - circa 4kg if I remember correctly, so a K20 with grip and a DA* 50-135 is getting towards the top end.

Steve

Lightweight tripods will flex. I have this Culmann kit which has proved very useful over the years: it consists of wee tripod, two ball heads, ground spike, a coarse screw that could go into a tree or fence post, a big sucker for car doors and glass and a big clamp. All the bits can connect to others so endless possibilities. They cost around £120 these days.

link

I have a Manfrotto modo which I use as a lightweight alternative to my Benbo when walking any distance and I find gives great results

If you can find one SH that Polaroid made about 20 years ago from very strong metal, it's the best small tripod I've ever seen. They were cheap and I was sorry I never bought two of them. I've used mine many times with a heavy Rikenenon APO f/4.5 lens and 2x converter. The tripods so strong you could stand on it. The legs stop at 120deg when you open them. I think Minolta sold the same tripod at a much higher price. Came with a good zipped case.

Folds up and looks like a gun , which could be a laugh when you go though customs

Photo of someone elses on Pbase link

shim

Have a look at the manfrotto 785B as mentioned earlier (modo). It packs up small and is light weight and extends to a reasonable height. Bonus is its also well priced.

The Velbon Sherpa Pro carbon fibre tripods are very portable and light. I have a CF531 which hangs from my backpack and is light enough to carry around all day.

I read good opinions about the manfrotto 785b, but it is until 1kg.

k20d + da55-300 is 1,2 kg. Probably I could risk, but prefer to avoid.

Do you know any similar product, lowweight as the 785b but suitable for some grams more?

Could this weigh 2885 grams?

When on hikes I take a mono with me, much easier and lighter to carry. when needing a more stable platform the bag itself is mostly good enough.

There are some mini-tripods, usefull for macro shots on the ground and things like that but like I said, I use the bag for that.
If you want to take a tripod with you, then simply take a good one and try not to cut corners. I rather carry a bit more that's easier and better to use, then you have the idea it's worth carrying.

Velbon has this mini-tripod link which might be what you are loooking for.
Or else this one link with a good head makes a good tripod.

I myself have an eye on this one link
It has a need trick, you can turn the center colom from vertical to horizontal in a flash. Quite nice for doing macro and the likes.

oh I just came across this one, it looks really sweet but don't ask me for the price Gitzo Titanium

Thanks Stefan
The Velbon looks what I'm after, but too much expensive.

I would need something similar or heavier than the Manfrotto 785b (cost about £50) (height 150.5cm/43.5cm, Weight 0.98 kg)but capable to hold something like 1,5 kg.

All I found are more than 2kilos as weight and holding weight. And much more expensive.

If you are a millionaire, then there are no finer small travel tripods than the Gitzo Traveller series. They are rigid, lightweight, small and very very expensive!

The GT1550T (the smallest) - Only £480 inc head! link

The GT1541T (still pretty small) - £380 w/o head link

An ideal head for it, GH1780QR - £186 link

Otherwise, if you're like most mortals , you are looking at the Manfrotto Modo Maxi or the M-Y series, Giottos MT Travel series, or one of the smaller Velbon Sherpa or Ultra Luxi range.

I use an Ultra Luxi F, which has been replaced by the UltraLuxi L which includes quite a decent removable pan and tilt head with a QR plate link.

Available for around £75 link

Here is a picture of my tripod holding a K20D with Tamron 70-200 f2.8 and 1.4x Teleconverter. If you need to add extra stability, you can use a stonebag, but I've never had the need.




Hope this is helpful rather than confusing!