Tripods

I have an old but solid tripod which is fine for most things but has two great failings.

1 It can't get very low down and even if the centre column did intentionally reverse it would be really fiddly as it has come out now and again and been awkward to get back in.

2 More irritatingly it's difficult to shoot straight down as the legs get in the way etc.

So, looking around I thought a Benbo or Uni Loc might be good. But do Manfrotto for example have models as flexible as the Benbo?

All advice and experience welcomed!

Mike

The Manfrotto 055PROB can be laid flat on the ground and the centre column can be remounted horizontally to move the camera away from the tripod legs for straight down shots. The redesigned 055XPROB might be what you are looking for.

I've got a Uni-Loc very good for doing all kinds of gymnastics with. Not very good as a tall tripod. Really solid though. I paid £130 in Jessops a few years ago but you can get a mint one on ebay for under £80

I've also got a Manfrotto 190 with a Gitzo head that I use as a GP/normal tripod.

shim

Thanks guys - looks like either of those will do me. Just need to find one on eBay now.

Mike

Giottos MT9251 tripod with a MH1000-652 ball head for me.Both very versatile

Martin - can it shoot straight down like the Benbo?

Mike

I've got the Manfrotto 055PROB and it has to be said it's great for anything and everything I've asked it to do, really solid, great for low work and on full extension I'd need a step ladder to use....lol. I would recommend it any day.

But does it shoot straight down readily?

I have been frustrated by my own tripod as it frequently won't allow me to shoot when directly above the subject.

Mike

Sure does:

[IMG]http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w20/GlynM/Misc/IMGP3310_small.jpg[/IMG]

Using the old version of the Manfrotto 055PRO.

On the old one you have to split the column by unscrewing it using the knob on the bottom, pull it out of the vertical mount, slide it into the horizontal mount and screw it back together again. This only takes a few seconds.

I believe the new version simplifies the switch of the column from vertical to horizontal.

Glyn

Edited for details on how the column is switched.

Glyn that just looks like a horor seen were the rabit is tied down and the camera is looming over it as a dooms machine

I have the new version and it's just a straight switch, piece of cake to do. So yes it will shoot straight down no problems.

The rabbit only looks worried as he thinks he is on his way to ebay

Of course he's far too precious for that. He just happened to be handy when I set up the shot.

Glyn

I have to agree with everyone, the 055pro is a very versatile tripod.

Mike why don't you try a Copipod for shooting straight down : what is it you are photographing :

Excellent I shall certainly look at the Manfrotto and compare eBay prices really. All I want is the functionality and I suspect all the models are well made.

Clarky I just shoot 'stuff', oranges, plants, just stuff in general but not usually wildlife more still life stuff. Of course if I'm honest I don't need a new tripod but what's that got to do with it?

Mike

UNI-LOC UNI-LOC UNI-LOC I've got 2 of them. One small and one so big I need a step ladder to use at full height. They're rugged they're solid and they're waterproof. Until you get used to them it's like fighting with a demented octopus but after that they are the most versatile tripod you can get. (My opinion) Go for it. CHEERS Vic.
PS. I even have a UNI-LOC monopod which is a hell of a beast. Vic.