While I liked how comprehensive this video was, having a 3 and a half minute intro and 3 calls to action for liking and subscribing is grating. We heard you the first time.
@@ViewfinderMastery Hi, If you are shooting in higher shutter speeds sometimes HSS is tripod stability still relevant? I want to use my travel tripod but with weights under it in high shutter speeds Would like to hear your answer…
@@eotceotc It depends on the type of photography. I can see the benefit of a tripod even with higher shutter speeds if you do something like panoramas, HDR or you just shoot same part of scenery, aka a branch where birds land for a long time. It also depends on the focal length and if it works with the given shutter speed. I sometimes shoot with lenses that reach 400mm focal length and more, in which case I still want higher shutter speed than 1/400 handheld. If you don't want to use higher ISO, the tripod will for sure help you. You can use self timer, let go of the camera and reduce vibration.
Not just one of the best videos on tripods that informed me well but one of the most professionally produced and presented videos on any subject on CZcams. There are some dire videos available. Thanks.
You must be a genius. You've affirmed each of the conclusions I've reached in six weeks of evaluating tripods. I used to mostly photograph storms and birds, but have become partially disabled and concentrate on inside subjects: flowers, still life, and a calico cat. Your decision making and evenly textured presentation make this an information-rich video of considerable value.Thank you.
Wow! Thank you so much for the kind feedback James! By the way, if you'd like to join us for our monthly shooting exercises (and more), feel free to check out our membership. We'd love to have you in our group!
I’ve watched several videos on this subject and your video is the best - well organized and informative. Also, your video was the only one to mention a half ball leveling device. Thank you!
We're very glad to hear that you could benefit from this one J.D.! Thanks for your kind remarks. Please consider subscribing as we have more fun content coming soon!
This video was very helpful...learned alot. The visuals, both dynamic & static, were clear and targeted. It was good to discover support for the conclusions which I've been reaching. Look forward to learning more from you.
I have watched three videos so far on tripods and this is the best one i have seen. Great explanation of heads as well. I still cannot get myself to toss $500 at a tripod but i am working on it. I am gaining a better understanding of long exposure photography which means a good tripod and filter kit. Not planning to be a professional, but it is a very satisfying hobby for me. Thank you and i hope more folks find this video. I shoot lots of different types of photography so that makes it challenging to pick the right equipment within a budget. Thanks for the great job!! Very much apprecaited.
it's a pleasure to read your feedback and we're very glad to hear you found it helpful. consider subscribing so you don't miss our next helpful photography tip. thanks for your comment!
This is an old comment, but for those of us able to, it helped me be reminded that we spend $$$ on camera-bodies, (heavy) lenses, and filters just to trust cheap-ish tripods to not topple or otherwise possibly cause issues (vibration etc).. This being said, I don’t mean to imply one cannot take excellent photographs with a ‘cheaper’ tripod.
I appreciate how you are able to talk about the essence of owning a tripod. Best video on tripods so far! Thank you! I really like your sense of humor by the way.
Matt, Great Vlog! Thank you. It's daunting to say the least what to choose. I am heading to the Grand Canyon in Jan. I have two old pods that may work, but not very portable. I suppose like lots of amateurs looking for and all in ONE! However you gave me the boxes to check to purchase a pod for this trip. Thanks! I subscribed. Nice web too!
what a wonderful bit of feedback to hear! 🙏🏻 when we get comments like yours it really puts the wind in our sails! 👍 have a wonderful trip and thanks for subscribing! 🎊
@@ViewfinderMastery I’m subscribed right now! I’m into photography and learning English and I get advantage for two both 😃. Sorry for my writing if I have mistakes 😅. Greetings from Mexico
Great video, im an enthusiast photographer and looking at buying a lightweight travel tripod on a budget. Been looking at the Neewer brand and K&F. Great prices as I can't afford the more premium brands at the moment but I also don't want to buy too cheap as I did have a horrible experience years ago with a cheap tripod. Thanks for the tips. Deffinetly deserves a sub and like!
Hello, that was really a super detailed video. Thanks for sharing! I have a question, I shoot photos and timelapses from my jigsaw puzzles, and need this to down shot. Apart from the middle column, is there something else that I should consider? Or is there another setup, more appropriate for such a setting. And then I have to see also about the lightning (soft box or something similar)
For my large tripod I went with the Leofoto 364c, which is a wonderful combination of stability and light weight. When taking assignments I realized that an 8' tall tripod was an advantage, so I purchased 3 Leofoto 284c monopods. Leofoto uses standard diameters in carbon fiber tubes, so I removed the bottom legs of the tripod and replaced them with the 3 lower sections of the monopods. I now have a Leofoto 366 (36mm top section, 6 sections) which is 8' tall but still fits in my 24" tripod tube on my bike.
That's awesome! I'd love to see how you attach your tripod to your bike! we often involve bikes in our own shooting at ViewfinderMastery.com, whenever its more practical to approach a location on two wheels. 👍
@@ViewfinderMastery In just about any city it's almost always more practical to reach a shooting location by bike... My camera bike set-up has been evolving for the past few years. not too long ago I made a custom pannier using an aluminum frame and the bags that come with MeFoto tripods. That served me well, but I soon outgrew that tripod. The new set-up has a 24" aluminum T-slot rail on the top of the rack. Salsa Cycles makes something called the Anything Cage, I have them mounted at either end of the rail. I'm the head of the touring department at Belmont Wheelworks. I do a lot with custom rack and pannier set-ups, including my own. I would be glad to share what I've learned about that equipment.
Thanks for those great advices in this video! 😍 What I loved the most is that tripods are very individual! 😋 I agree also on the Gitzo's weakness of only allowing two leg positions (maybe a lighter Leofoto - 284 CEX - might do this job)! I also think (as with the best camera) the best tripod is always the one you'll have with you! I'm even convinced that one single "tipod" (no I have to correct myself one single "camera supporting system") can do it all: *Novoflex!* 😍 With Novoflex you can buy "the shoulder" (as they call the top part of the tripod) separately from the legs and there you can even buy different leg sizes (and other accessories). Maybe the tripod that can do it all really exists. (Well, the prizes are as high as with Gitzo! That's the main disadvantage of Novoflex.) 🤔
Thanks for posting this - for whatever reason I giggled at the way your arm raised the tripod into the frame. We just bought a mid-priced spotting scope and our old tripod isn't strong enough. I'll be looking for a taller tripod though the Leopold is more expensive than I'm ready to spend at the moment.
Really great video...really helped me decide on what type of tripod to get. Was considering the ulanzi carbon fibre travel tripod or something similar (mainly to reduce weight), but I needed this video to confirm in my head that height of tripod, no centre column and stability are the real things i need for my landscape photography..so iam going to go 22:35 with the Benro Tortoise instead. (Even though its slightly heavier than my current starter tripod)
Wery informativ video 👌 At the moment in using a Inorel 60C with a half ball and most time with a Wimberley gimbal head on top. But I'm in the market for a biffier version since I purchased a prime 600mm f4. I'm mostly doing wildlife photography and om action some landscape as well. But whit a growing demand for video I will probably switch from my gimbal to a fluid video head.
Sorry for the pate reply. just wanted to say, that my Leofoto came with a fluid head which is pretty good (BV-10). Its also not terribly heavy and I use it with my 200-600mm Sony lens all the time. if you get a replacement lens foot for your lens, from Kirk or Wimberley, then you can slide the telephoto right onto the head without any in-between plates, etc. I really like that! 👍
That'll depend on your height and your table setup. But take a look for a tripod that has a swinging center column, so it can get over the table without being placed on the table. 👍📸
Lol I hope you don't use your flash often in conjunction with a long telephoto and tripod ;) Great video. Thanks. Extreme thorough. I walk / hike a lot and currently have Sirui AM254, but unfortunately it's not lasting that long with sea water, sand, dust and needs replacing. I have a Gitzo GT1545 and 2545 sat on my table... It'll be my main tripod, I don't use long lenses on a tripod often. Should I keep the 2545? I am leaning that way. I am always reluctant listening to new people that I have not come across before or younger CZcams channels, but yours is superb, subscribed.
Hi Matt Anderson. My tripod of choice is the SIRUI W-2204 waterproof carbon with the SIRUI K-20X ball head. The reason I chose this setting are: they are relatively lightweight to carry around, they can carry my longest lens incl. camera and filters. It is strong enough if you handle it ruff and it is waterproof. I need this if I take pictures in the boggy regions of Scotland. I have placed it into a lake or into the sea and after a short shower in the evening, everything was fine again. I also chose this system because it supports arca swiss. It has an in build monopod as well, but I have never used it till now. Oh and why didn't you talk about L-Plates?
I bought a Robus 5570, which no one ever mentions, but it is fairly light, although not the lightest, holds my camera with sigma 150-600mm lens, star tracker, two ball heads, etc. It did great in 40 mph winds at the Jersey shore for MW photography 😊
I totally get all of your Very Good points here. One thing is for sure, the market for tripods is getting more and more competitive these days, and Thankfully we now have Many more choices than either Manfrotto or Gitzo. I tried taking pictures for many years without a tripod, and I have to say, a tripod Definitely makes a HUGE difference where the quality of your pictures is concerned, and a tripod is definitely one of the Best investments you will ever make in your “Journey into photography”. Personally, I am an occasional photographer. Mostly holidays, and the odd day sometimes in a bird hide. To me, my MeFoto Roadtrip works a Dream, it works perfectly and the ball head that comes with it is surprisingly Great. I just bought it again for my wife, only this time the Carbon Fibre version, whereas I have the aluminium. Let’s see how much of a difference that makes.
I have a Nikon Z6II and I use native glass as well as F mount glass with the FTZ adapter. I have a Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary. Looking for tripod that can handle weight. What do you recommend? W eight is not an issue.
I have a Leofoto LS-324C with Ballhead LH-40 and it has been good for Landscapes and street photography here in Phoenix AZ ............ I recommend it !!!!!
do you mean spikes on the feet? those can be very helpful. we use them every once in a while when the ground is slippery, for example on steep hillsides. 👍
@@franzisanchez Ah, gotcha. Yeah, those are great. I installed one on my Gitzo Traveller, but haven't yet on my LeoFoto. Might look into it. Thanks for the idea! 👍
I went into a shop for a Manfrotto but ended up buying a Gitzo GT2545T; straight to endgame. Was looking for something super sturdy, lasts forever and doesn't wobble. It's the kind of thing I'd buy once and never think of buying another again.
Hello, thanks for the great input you've given on each situations. I am doing wildlife photography and choosing between three tripods. I would like you to help me pick one I'm 5feet9 inches (175 centimetres) Here are my choices within my budget Leofoto LS 364c (Ranger series) leofoto LM 364c (summit series) Sirui R3213x Also considering leofoto lm 404 (summit series) but it weighs more than these but has the advantage of extending up to 70inches
Re locking the head down, see at (13:25) your Gitzo does appear to have a provision for a set screw (otherwise what's that hole?) to prevent head rotation. No screw in in it seems so you add one, and in any case if you'd just drill a hole and tap it for threads you'd have what you want.
Ended up splurging on the Peak Design aluminum travel tripod. It's very convenient and suitable for all my hobby-level needs. My NONS SL42 is hefty and even with my 70-300mm telephoto it's very stable. I'm also short enough to only have to use the height extension a little bit. Worth a look!
That’s what I ended up with a couple months back. It’s inexpensive considering the extra you’d shell out for a ball head plus the fact that it’s small enough to carry in a bag pocket.
@@thatguyjonny2982 You probably missed one of the most important advice in this video! *A tripod that is right for you might not be right for me and vice versa!*
Looking to get a tripod and ballhead that can hold a Mamiya RB67 with a prism finder on top. Don't want to worry about the ballhead dropping after being "locked in", as I've experienced in the past. Does a tripod's estimated weight capacity factor in the overall weight or just what the legs can support and do I need to look for something separate for a ballhead?
I would look for a head with a higher capacity rating than the legs. "Creeping" is super annoying, so consider a more high end head from RRS, Kirk, or Gitzo (or) go for a 3-way head (instead of a ball head).they are very precise 👍
Hello. I just watched your YT. I like it. I run business in property area especially in huge land area. I would like to ask about a tripod with flatlay function. What is your explanation about flatlay? Oh ya, I am a new subscriber too.
This is a really good video. I am using a Gitzo Mountaineer series 3 tripod which works well with my Z 8 and is very rigid with an arcatech GXP ballhead (possibly the most expensive but best ballhead in the world I find!). I shoot landscapes and landscape astro / deep sky. I tend to top out at 200mm max, I am usually under 50mm for landscape work.
@ViewfinderMastery cannot recommend ths acratech gxp enough. I have the non lever lock design. It is amazingly well made and precise. Doesn't feel mass produced; like someone made it with a lifetime of skill in their garage with their bare hands.
Thank you for an informative and well done video. It looks like I will be collecting tripods like my wife and her purses-not one type is going to work for me, lol!
I am thinking about buying the k & f tm2324. But there is one thing I would like to know. I have a canon Eos 600d, does that fit on the standard tripod head?
3:45 - Real Estate is a funny one too. Average ceiling height is 8', so 48" evens floor / ceiling (wide angle problems). Cabinets are 36", but you want to be 16"+ above them, so 52". Thankfully, we have screens that flip out now, so no back problems! Currently trying to find the right legs in combination with geared head height XD
Trying to find one now, I shoot landscape from the standing position but shoot wildlife while sitting inside of a blind. I have also had three shoulder surgeries so that makes things hard because of managing pain. At this time my only camera is a Canon M50 and my biggest lens is a 70-300mm Canon lens. I am not completely happy with my current tripod that I got when I won the camera and the content creators kit, learned really quick I could not take the nature pictures I wanted with a 15-45mm lens which is how I found landscape. I saw you mention the camera gear x2 I had been told x3 is there a difference in why that had changed? I am Saving for either the Sigma 70-600mm sports version or the Canon 100-300mm lens so I want to be sure I get enough tripod. I am also using a Wimberley WH-200 Gimbal Tripod Head II gimbal as my hands & wrists have been broken and it is very difficult for me to control a ball head. I also have back, hip, knee, left ankle and foot problems on both sides, trying to figure the best tripod for me on disability without having to go to much without. Any suggestions? Oh I have hand and shoulder problems so I prefer flip locks.
I want to buy a Benro tripod. Rhino (with center column) or Tortoise. These are looking really good but they are quite short compared to your tripod. Sometimes i use center column for videography in studio. Rhino has a max height of 177cm. Tortoise is 144cm. Do you think i should buy another taller tripod? I will buy a fluid head and do videography also.
hi, i'm looking for a tripod for my film photography (35mm, medium format). i mostly do landscape and cityscape photography, sometimes at night. My budget is around $200. Do you have any recommendations?
Very nice layout of the differences. Never thought of a panoramic head for my wildlife. Seen gimbals and even fluid heads. But the panoramic head with a leveling base is intriguing. The 2 tripods I think I've narrowed it down to are both ifootage models being the TC6 or the TC7. One has the 75 mm bowl head like your largest and the other is a more traditional style with removable center column but it also has a leveling base built in.
Thanks for the model references Ian. Glad you enjoyed the video. Yes, the leveling base really opens up the possibilities. I can't say enough about the long lens head. It's just great!
@@ViewfinderMastery thank you for the quick response. Is your panoramic head the Acratech? Its description includes the use of long lenses. I'm excited to replace the terrible cheap tripod I bought years ago. Ball head doesn't lock well so likes to droop. As they say buy nice or buy twice.
@@ianbachanek2538 yes, mine is from Acratech. It's very powerful. No drooping to report and I've had some pretty heavy gear on it. It has a cleaver rotation function on the clamp, allowing you shoot with a lens foot that is parallel to the lens (like on many telephoto lenses) or in the normal orientation (to accommodate camera plates that are perpendicular to the lens). It's very light, very strong and very simple. Very innovative!👍🏼
@@ViewfinderMastery wanted to say thanks one more time. I bought the Acratech head and the ifootage tc6. Loving the Acratech as my all in one solution. And yes the ability to reorient the head horizontally for my L-bracket or forward facing for my longer lenses is a bit of engineering genius! The TC6 has also been great with its leveling ability (however I use the Acratech bubble level combined with the electronic level in my camera). Cheers!
I have two Gitzo tripods that I've had for twenty years. They still work the same as they did the day I bought them. But, I thought I could get away with buying a cheaper tripod for travel. I bought a Benro. It's ok, but nowhere near the quality of a Gitzo. Then just recently I thought I'd replace the Benro with a Leofoto because it's just as tall extended, lighter, and shorter when folded than the Benro. The quality is about the same as the Benro. For what I spent on the Benro and Leofoto, I could have bought a Gitzo. I knew better, but I went ahead and made the mistake anyway. Buy the best once and you'll never regret it.
Definitely agree with your philosophy on that! I sure hope my LeoFoto will stand the test, but only time will tell. Thanks for commenting! Consider subscribing for more great content! 🙏
I've had my leofoto for a couple of years now. It's been through water, ice, snow, mud and a few tumbles and still works as good as the day I bought it. I see no need to move up.
HI, IM THINKING OF BUYING LATER ON A VERY TALL TRIPOD FOR MY E10 SONY CAMERA SO I COULD FILM OVER HEAD OF MY PIANO. ID NEED A LONG ARM EXTENSION TO GO ON TOP OF THE TRIPOD. MOST TRIPODS IVE SEEN SO FAR FOR THIS TYPE OF THING IS ONLY OF SHORT TRIPODS SITTING ON TOP OF GRAND PIANOS AND UPRIGHT PIANOS. NO ONE SEEMS TO BE ADVERTISING TALL TRIPODS FOR DIGITAL PIANOS BUT NICE UPLOAD YOU HAVE THERE ANYWAY. THANKS
Does size really matter? Mr Anderson: “They don’t call me the human tripod for no reason!”. 😁 thanks so much for this informative video 🙏 Looking to get a tripod and have watched dozens of CZcams videos, majority blatantly pushing one brand and dissing another. I learned more from this video than all of those put together. 👍👍
Something of a side-tip, but always double check prices to the standard mongers. I paid ~2x what I was hoping to on a tripod from the usual suppliers, but the bro-dude on CZcams selling them would have charged me ~3x. A wood tripod sounds cool to have in the studio though.
URGENT- i have had my fingers, or wallet burnt trying to get a tripod to keep my Nikon D 750 steady. Options in Karachi, Pakistan very limited so i plan to ask my niece to bring me one from the States. I locally purchased a VF Weifeng Professional WF -6663A, recommended by the Nikon shop here. Legs are sturdy, that's good. But the top part the camera sits on wobbles ever so slightly. Anyway, the clip on the base to sit the camera has snapped off. I am not a professional. I enjoy outdoor scenes, flowers, eye level insect photographs. Your suggestion would be much appreciated. MOST URGENT. Thanks.
Good observation.👍I only find myself using the battery grip when shooting birds, wildlife and sports. when I'm just doing landscape shots I do prefer to go as light as possible and usually that means taking the smaller, lighter Gitzo tripod. 📷
I am on a fixed income and when you said that dreaded word Gitzo, you lost me. So I guess I am stuck with my old Slik 700DX. In an ideal world, we'd all have the best equipment, but sometimes you just have to work with what you have. It just seems photography these days is for the wealthy, which is really discouraging.
well George, I personally don't think it is (just for the wealthy) but here on CZcams, there are many who put the gear before the creativity, because headlines about new toys get more clicks than the other stuff. check out our YT channel if you you're looking for some fun creative exercises. helping you improve your photography is our specialty at Viewfinder Mastery! 👍
Not bad, but to up your game watch some Ken Rockwell presentations. They skip the needless wordiness, appeals to philosophy (it will end in tears guaranteed), and tedious canned music to just get to the salient points of pure camera work. I think a bit of adoption of Ken's concision would improve your channel.
You wasted 3+ minutes with useless “intro” time. Would prefer you get to the meat of your message within 15 seconds like some of the other offerings do.
While I liked how comprehensive this video was, having a 3 and a half minute intro and 3 calls to action for liking and subscribing is grating. We heard you the first time.
thanks for your feedback!
@@ViewfinderMastery
Hi,
If you are shooting in higher shutter speeds sometimes HSS is tripod stability still relevant?
I want to use my travel tripod but with weights under it in high shutter speeds
Would like to hear your answer…
@@eotceotc It depends on the type of photography. I can see the benefit of a tripod even with higher shutter speeds if you do something like panoramas,
HDR or you just shoot same part of scenery, aka a branch where birds land for a long time.
It also depends on the focal length and if it works with the given shutter speed.
I sometimes shoot with lenses that reach 400mm focal length and more, in which case I still want higher shutter speed than 1/400 handheld.
If you don't want to use higher ISO, the tripod will for sure help you. You can use self timer, let go of the camera and reduce vibration.
This has been super helpful and has given me a lot to think about for my next tripod :)
Not just one of the best videos on tripods that informed me well but one of the most professionally produced and presented videos on any subject on CZcams. There are some dire videos available. Thanks.
so glad to hear that it was helpful! Huw! Come back again - as we've got more on the way!
Very helpful and informative, thank you!!
you're very kind to say so Peter! we appreciated your feedback! 👍🙏
Excellent Advice! Very well organized and easy to understand. Thank you for the great content.
Thanks so much Jeff! So glad you enjoyed it!
very very VERY insightful. Thanks a lot !
You are welcome! 👍
You must be a genius. You've affirmed each of the conclusions I've reached in six weeks of evaluating tripods. I used to mostly photograph storms and birds, but have become partially disabled and concentrate on inside subjects: flowers, still life, and a calico cat.
Your decision making and evenly textured presentation make this an information-rich video of considerable value.Thank you.
Wow! Thank you so much for the kind feedback James! By the way, if you'd like to join us for our monthly shooting exercises (and more), feel free to check out our membership. We'd love to have you in our group!
I’ve watched several videos on this subject and your video is the best - well organized and informative. Also, your video was the only one to mention a half ball leveling device. Thank you!
We're very glad to hear that you could benefit from this one J.D.! Thanks for your kind remarks. Please consider subscribing as we have more fun content coming soon!
This video was very helpful...learned alot. The visuals, both dynamic & static, were clear and targeted. It was good to discover support for the conclusions which I've been reaching. Look forward to learning more from you.
Wow, thanks for the awesome feedback. Made my day! 👍🙏
I have watched three videos so far on tripods and this is the best one i have seen. Great explanation of heads as well. I still cannot get myself to toss $500 at a tripod but i am working on it. I am gaining a better understanding of long exposure photography which means a good tripod and filter kit. Not planning to be a professional, but it is a very satisfying hobby for me. Thank you and i hope more folks find this video. I shoot lots of different types of photography so that makes it challenging to pick the right equipment within a budget. Thanks for the great job!! Very much apprecaited.
it's a pleasure to read your feedback and we're very glad to hear you found it helpful. consider subscribing so you don't miss our next helpful photography tip. thanks
for your comment!
This is an old comment, but for those of us able to, it helped me be reminded that we spend $$$ on camera-bodies, (heavy) lenses, and filters just to trust cheap-ish tripods to not topple or otherwise possibly cause issues (vibration etc)..
This being said, I don’t mean to imply one cannot take excellent photographs with a ‘cheaper’ tripod.
I appreciate how you are able to talk about the essence of owning a tripod. Best video on tripods so far! Thank you! I really like your sense of humor by the way.
Glad you enjoyed it! thanks for the nice comment! 🙏🏻👍
Very helpful vedio, i didnt skip a part of it , all thanks and regards for the great tips and marvelous explanations methods.
Thanks for your kind words! You are very welcome! Please consider subscribing for more great content! 🙏👍📷
The best or one of the best advisory videos on camera TRIPODS. Thanks for your very clear and straightforward opinions.
You're very welcome! Thanks for leaving this nice feedback! 🙏❤️
Great video- thank you
Glad you enjoyed it Jim! Thanks for leaving us your feedback!
Thank you for the great content 🙏
you're very welcome. and thanks to you for the very nice comment. 👍🙏🏻
Thank you very much for this.
You're very welcome! Thanks for watching! 👍
Very well done. Thx.
we appreciate your kind feedback! 🙏🏻
Thank You for sharing. Greetings from Belgium. :)
Thank you too! 👍📷
This is super helpful video while Im learning how choose good tripod. Thank you so much.
You're very welcome! good luck with your search! 🎉
Matt, Great Vlog! Thank you. It's daunting to say the least what to choose. I am heading to the Grand Canyon in Jan. I have two old pods that may work, but not very portable. I suppose like lots of amateurs looking for and all in ONE! However you gave me the boxes to check to purchase a pod for this trip. Thanks! I subscribed. Nice web too!
what a wonderful bit of feedback to hear! 🙏🏻 when we get comments like yours it really puts the wind in our sails! 👍 have a wonderful trip and thanks for subscribing! 🎊
Great presentation
Thank you
Thanks for your support!
Wow, this bid is so good for a small channel. Glad I got to sub before you blow up!
Thanks so much Christian! We're glad to have you subscribed! Maybe you can help spread the word? 🤗
What a masterful helpful and wise lesson on tripods!!! Thankyou SO MUCH!!
You're very welcome! hope you'll subscribe for more! 👍
@@ViewfinderMasteryi subscribed and wish to follow you on all your videos!! Thanks So Much for your wonderfully presented info!!!!
@@jerryeisner1 thank you for your kind words! really do appreciate it sir! 🙏🏻
Congratulations! Your explanation is great!!
You're very kind to say so Analili! Glad you could benefit from the tips in this one. Please consider subscribing so you don't miss our next one! 👍
@@ViewfinderMastery I’m subscribed right now! I’m into photography and learning English and I get advantage for two both 😃. Sorry for my writing if I have mistakes 😅. Greetings from Mexico
Thanks!
well a big thanks to you too Jim! really appreciate you! 🙏
Great video, im an enthusiast photographer and looking at buying a lightweight travel tripod on a budget. Been looking at the Neewer brand and K&F. Great prices as I can't afford the more premium brands at the moment but I also don't want to buy too cheap as I did have a horrible experience years ago with a cheap tripod. Thanks for the tips. Deffinetly deserves a sub and like!
So glad you enjoyed the video! 🙏
Hello, that was really a super detailed video. Thanks for sharing! I have a question, I shoot photos and timelapses from my jigsaw puzzles, and need this to down shot. Apart from the middle column, is there something else that I should consider? Or is there another setup, more appropriate for such a setting. And then I have to see also about the lightning (soft box or something similar)
have you already downloaded our Top 10 Photography Purchases PDF? It's available on our website: ViewfinderMastery.com 👍
For my large tripod I went with the Leofoto 364c, which is a wonderful combination of stability and light weight. When taking assignments I realized that an 8' tall tripod was an advantage, so I purchased 3 Leofoto 284c monopods. Leofoto uses standard diameters in carbon fiber tubes, so I removed the bottom legs of the tripod and replaced them with the 3 lower sections of the monopods. I now have a Leofoto 366 (36mm top section, 6 sections) which is 8' tall but still fits in my 24" tripod tube on my bike.
That's awesome! I'd love to see how you attach your tripod to your bike! we often involve bikes in our own shooting at ViewfinderMastery.com, whenever its more practical to approach a location on two wheels. 👍
@@ViewfinderMastery In just about any city it's almost always more practical to reach a shooting location by bike... My camera bike set-up has been evolving for the past few years. not too long ago I made a custom pannier using an aluminum frame and the bags that come with MeFoto tripods. That served me well, but I soon outgrew that tripod. The new set-up has a 24" aluminum T-slot rail on the top of the rack. Salsa Cycles makes something called the Anything Cage, I have them mounted at either end of the rail.
I'm the head of the touring department at Belmont Wheelworks. I do a lot with custom rack and pannier set-ups, including my own. I would be glad to share what I've learned about that equipment.
Good video.
Glad you enjoyed it
Thanks for those great advices in this video! 😍
What I loved the most is that tripods are very individual! 😋
I agree also on the Gitzo's weakness of only allowing two leg positions (maybe a lighter Leofoto - 284 CEX - might do this job)!
I also think (as with the best camera) the best tripod is always the one you'll have with you! I'm even convinced that one single "tipod" (no I have to correct myself one single "camera supporting system") can do it all: *Novoflex!* 😍
With Novoflex you can buy "the shoulder" (as they call the top part of the tripod) separately from the legs and there you can even buy different leg sizes (and other accessories). Maybe the tripod that can do it all really exists. (Well, the prizes are as high as with Gitzo! That's the main disadvantage of Novoflex.) 🤔
thanks for sharing your thoughts! 🙌
Thanks for posting this - for whatever reason I giggled at the way your arm raised the tripod into the frame. We just bought a mid-priced spotting scope and our old tripod isn't strong enough. I'll be looking for a taller tripod though the Leopold is more expensive than I'm ready to spend at the moment.
glad you liked it and good luck with your search!
This is actually a decent guide video, standing out from the torrents of regurgitated nonsense. It respects my time, too. Ace. Cheers.
Quite a compliment! Thank you! 🙏
Really great video...really helped me decide on what type of tripod to get. Was considering the ulanzi carbon fibre travel tripod or something similar (mainly to reduce weight), but I needed this video to confirm in my head that height of tripod, no centre column and stability are the real things i need for my landscape photography..so iam going to go 22:35 with the Benro Tortoise instead. (Even though its slightly heavier than my current starter tripod)
glad we could help! best luck with your investment! 👍
Wery informativ video 👌
At the moment in using a Inorel 60C with a half ball and most time with a Wimberley gimbal head on top. But I'm in the market for a biffier version since I purchased a prime 600mm f4. I'm mostly doing wildlife photography and om action some landscape as well. But whit a growing demand for video I will probably switch from my gimbal to a fluid video head.
Sorry for the pate reply. just wanted to say, that my Leofoto came with a fluid head which is pretty good (BV-10). Its also not terribly heavy and I use it with my 200-600mm Sony lens all the time. if you get a replacement lens foot for your lens, from Kirk or Wimberley, then you can slide the telephoto right onto the head without any in-between plates, etc. I really like that! 👍
Thanks for the video! does anyone know what's the best/minimum height for a tripod for unboxing / cocking videos overhead a table?
That'll depend on your height and your table setup. But take a look for a tripod that has a swinging center column, so it can get over the table without being placed on the table. 👍📸
Lol I hope you don't use your flash often in conjunction with a long telephoto and tripod ;)
Great video. Thanks. Extreme thorough. I walk / hike a lot and currently have Sirui AM254, but unfortunately it's not lasting that long with sea water, sand, dust and needs replacing. I have a Gitzo GT1545 and 2545 sat on my table... It'll be my main tripod, I don't use long lenses on a tripod often. Should I keep the 2545? I am leaning that way.
I am always reluctant listening to new people that I have not come across before or younger CZcams channels, but yours is superb, subscribed.
wow! thanks for the terrific compliment! 🙏🏻
Hi Matt Anderson. My tripod of choice is the SIRUI W-2204 waterproof carbon with the SIRUI K-20X ball head. The reason I chose this setting are: they are relatively lightweight to carry around, they can carry my longest lens incl. camera and filters. It is strong enough if you handle it ruff and it is waterproof. I need this if I take pictures in the boggy regions of Scotland. I have placed it into a lake or into the sea and after a short shower in the evening, everything was fine again. I also chose this system because it supports arca swiss. It has an in build monopod as well, but I have never used it till now.
Oh and why didn't you talk about L-Plates?
Great! Thanks for sharing Mike. I'm sure we'll do L-plates in another future video. Glad to know you're interested!
You refer to yourself seven times in this short relatively pointless post. Think about that.
I bought a Robus 5570, which no one ever mentions, but it is fairly light, although not the lightest, holds my camera with sigma 150-600mm lens, star tracker, two ball heads, etc. It did great in 40 mph winds at the Jersey shore for MW photography 😊
fantastic! sounds like a good pick for the gear you use. I've heard of Robus, but never had my hands on one. thanks for sharing! 👍
I totally get all of your Very Good points here. One thing is for sure, the market for tripods is getting more and more competitive these days, and Thankfully we now have Many more choices than either Manfrotto or Gitzo.
I tried taking pictures for many years without a tripod, and I have to say, a tripod Definitely makes a HUGE difference where the quality of your pictures is concerned, and a tripod is definitely one of the Best investments you will ever make in your “Journey into photography”.
Personally, I am an occasional photographer. Mostly holidays, and the odd day sometimes in a bird hide. To me, my MeFoto Roadtrip works a Dream, it works perfectly and the ball head that comes with it is surprisingly Great. I just bought it again for my wife, only this time the Carbon Fibre version, whereas I have the aluminium. Let’s see how much of a difference that makes.
Sounds great!I how the carbon fiber tripod works out well!
I have a Nikon Z6II and I use native glass as well as F mount glass with the FTZ adapter. I have a Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary. Looking for tripod that can handle weight. What do you recommend? W
eight is not an issue.
for gear recommendedatiins, please consider downloading our PDF, found under "resources" at ViewfinderMastery.com 👍
I have a Leofoto LS-324C with Ballhead LH-40 and it has been good for Landscapes and street photography here in Phoenix AZ ............ I recommend it !!!!!
Great to hear it! Thanks for sharing your experience! 👍
Thank you, very useful tripods lesson! What about use hooks to gain stability?
do you mean spikes on the feet? those can be very helpful. we use them every once in a while when the ground is slippery, for example on steep hillsides. 👍
@@ViewfinderMastery I was refering to hook located under column of some trioods to hang bag or weight and thus gain stabilidad.
@@franzisanchez Ah, gotcha. Yeah, those are great. I installed one on my Gitzo Traveller, but haven't yet on my LeoFoto. Might look into it. Thanks for the idea! 👍
Only for the thumbnail you already get my thumb up😁
Thanks so much Sebastian!
I went into a shop for a Manfrotto but ended up buying a Gitzo GT2545T; straight to endgame. Was looking for something super sturdy, lasts forever and doesn't wobble. It's the kind of thing I'd buy once and never think of buying another again.
Great! Sounds like you found your perfect tripod!
Hello, thanks for the great input you've given on each situations. I am doing wildlife photography and choosing between three tripods. I would like you to help me pick one I'm 5feet9 inches (175 centimetres)
Here are my choices within my budget
Leofoto LS 364c (Ranger series)
leofoto LM 364c (summit series)
Sirui R3213x
Also considering leofoto lm 404 (summit series) but it weighs more than these but has the advantage of extending up to 70inches
Glad it was helpful! Best luck with your purchase!
Re locking the head down, see at (13:25) your Gitzo does appear to have a provision for a set screw (otherwise what's that hole?) to prevent head rotation. No screw in in it seems so you add one, and in any case if you'd just drill a hole and tap it for threads you'd have what you want.
thanks, but thats not a head set screw. it's a set screw for the center column.
Ended up splurging on the Peak Design aluminum travel tripod. It's very convenient and suitable for all my hobby-level needs. My NONS SL42 is hefty and even with my 70-300mm telephoto it's very stable. I'm also short enough to only have to use the height extension a little bit. Worth a look!
That’s what I ended up with a couple months back. It’s inexpensive considering the extra you’d shell out for a ball head plus the fact that it’s small enough to carry in a bag pocket.
Thanks for sharing and good luck with your new tripod! 👍
@@ahadsyed7033 Should have checked out the Ulanzi :)
Check out the Ulanzi Carbon Fiber one :)
@@thatguyjonny2982 You probably missed one of the most important advice in this video! *A tripod that is right for you might not be right for me and vice versa!*
Looking to get a tripod and ballhead that can hold a Mamiya RB67 with a prism finder on top. Don't want to worry about the ballhead dropping after being "locked in", as I've experienced in the past. Does a tripod's estimated weight capacity factor in the overall weight or just what the legs can support and do I need to look for something separate for a ballhead?
I would look for a head with a higher capacity rating than the legs. "Creeping" is super annoying, so consider a more high end head from RRS, Kirk, or Gitzo (or) go for a 3-way head (instead of a ball head).they are very precise 👍
Hello. I just watched your YT. I like it. I run business in property area especially in huge land area. I would like to ask about a tripod with flatlay function. What is your explanation about flatlay? Oh ya, I am a new subscriber too.
thanks for subscribing! sorry, don't really have any experience with flat-lay photography.
This is a really good video. I am using a Gitzo Mountaineer series 3 tripod which works well with my Z 8 and is very rigid with an arcatech GXP ballhead (possibly the most expensive but best ballhead in the world I find!). I shoot landscapes and landscape astro / deep sky. I tend to top out at 200mm max, I am usually under 50mm for landscape work.
thanks for the feedback! the mountaineer is a really great tripod! There are times that I wish i had that one instead. acratech heads are great! 🙌
@ViewfinderMastery cannot recommend ths acratech gxp enough. I have the non lever lock design. It is amazingly well made and precise. Doesn't feel mass produced; like someone made it with a lifetime of skill in their garage with their bare hands.
Thank you for an informative and well done video. It looks like I will be collecting tripods like my wife and her purses-not one type is going to work for me, lol!
Glad it was helpful! yes, I could say the same myself! tripods are like handbags! 😅
I am thinking about buying the k & f tm2324. But there is one thing I would like to know. I have a canon Eos 600d, does that fit on the standard tripod head?
I suggest you go to a camera shop where they can advise you. 📸
3:45 - Real Estate is a funny one too. Average ceiling height is 8', so 48" evens floor / ceiling (wide angle problems). Cabinets are 36", but you want to be 16"+ above them, so 52". Thankfully, we have screens that flip out now, so no back problems! Currently trying to find the right legs in combination with geared head height XD
Thanks for your input and thanks for watching!
Which should I buy for interior and architecture photography?
Not sure. You'll want to shop around. I think the head will be even more critical for you. consider a geared head. 👍
Trying to find one now, I shoot landscape from the standing position but shoot wildlife while sitting inside of a blind. I have also had three shoulder surgeries so that makes things hard because of managing pain. At this time my only camera is a Canon M50 and my biggest lens is a 70-300mm Canon lens. I am not completely happy with my current tripod that I got when I won the camera and the content creators kit, learned really quick I could not take the nature pictures I wanted with a 15-45mm lens which is how I found landscape. I saw you mention the camera gear x2 I had been told x3 is there a difference in why that had changed? I am Saving for either the Sigma 70-600mm sports version or the Canon 100-300mm lens so I want to be sure I get enough tripod. I am also using a Wimberley WH-200 Gimbal Tripod Head II gimbal as my hands & wrists have been broken and it is very difficult for me to control a ball head. I also have back, hip, knee, left ankle and foot problems on both sides, trying to figure the best tripod for me on disability without having to go to much without. Any suggestions? Oh I have hand and shoulder problems so I prefer flip locks.
Best luck with your search and hope you find something that works! 👍
I want to buy a Benro tripod. Rhino (with center column) or Tortoise. These are looking really good but they are quite short compared to your tripod. Sometimes i use center column for videography in studio. Rhino has a max height of 177cm. Tortoise is 144cm. Do you think i should buy another taller tripod? I will buy a fluid head and do videography also.
I'm sure you will find a good one!
hi, i'm looking for a tripod for my film photography (35mm, medium format). i mostly do landscape and cityscape photography, sometimes at night. My budget is around $200. Do you have any recommendations?
I would shop used. Should be able to find something for $200. 👍
Hey, I have the Sony a7ii and I don’t know what tripod to get because all tripods are 1/4 do you know if it's matching with my camera ?
every camera takes 1/4 - 20. you'll be just fine no matter what you get. 👍
Very nice layout of the differences. Never thought of a panoramic head for my wildlife. Seen gimbals and even fluid heads. But the panoramic head with a leveling base is intriguing. The 2 tripods I think I've narrowed it down to are both ifootage models being the TC6 or the TC7. One has the 75 mm bowl head like your largest and the other is a more traditional style with removable center column but it also has a leveling base built in.
Thanks for the model references Ian. Glad you enjoyed the video. Yes, the leveling base really opens up the possibilities. I can't say enough about the long lens head. It's just great!
@@ViewfinderMastery thank you for the quick response. Is your panoramic head the Acratech? Its description includes the use of long lenses. I'm excited to replace the terrible cheap tripod I bought years ago. Ball head doesn't lock well so likes to droop. As they say buy nice or buy twice.
@@ianbachanek2538 yes, mine is from Acratech. It's very powerful. No drooping to report and I've had some pretty heavy gear on it. It has a cleaver rotation function on the clamp, allowing you shoot with a lens foot that is parallel to the lens (like on many telephoto lenses) or in the normal orientation (to accommodate camera plates that are perpendicular to the lens). It's very light, very strong and very simple. Very innovative!👍🏼
@@ViewfinderMastery wanted to say thanks one more time. I bought the Acratech head and the ifootage tc6. Loving the Acratech as my all in one solution. And yes the ability to reorient the head horizontally for my L-bracket or forward facing for my longer lenses is a bit of engineering genius! The TC6 has also been great with its leveling ability (however I use the Acratech bubble level combined with the electronic level in my camera). Cheers!
@@ianbachanek2538 Great to hear it! I'm a big fan as well. It has worked very reliably for me, even in the arctic temps of northern Norway. Enjoy!
I have two Gitzo tripods that I've had for twenty years. They still work the same as they did the day I bought them. But, I thought I could get away with buying a cheaper tripod for travel. I bought a Benro. It's ok, but nowhere near the quality of a Gitzo. Then just recently I thought I'd replace the Benro with a Leofoto because it's just as tall extended, lighter, and shorter when folded than the Benro. The quality is about the same as the Benro. For what I spent on the Benro and Leofoto, I could have bought a Gitzo. I knew better, but I went ahead and made the mistake anyway. Buy the best once and you'll never regret it.
Definitely agree with your philosophy on that! I sure hope my LeoFoto will stand the test, but only time will tell. Thanks for commenting! Consider subscribing for more great content! 🙏
I've had my leofoto for a couple of years now. It's been through water, ice, snow, mud and a few tumbles and still works as good as the day I bought it. I see no need to move up.
HI, IM THINKING OF BUYING LATER ON A VERY TALL TRIPOD FOR MY E10 SONY CAMERA SO I COULD FILM OVER HEAD OF MY PIANO. ID NEED A LONG ARM EXTENSION TO GO ON TOP OF THE TRIPOD. MOST TRIPODS IVE SEEN SO FAR FOR THIS TYPE OF THING IS ONLY OF SHORT TRIPODS SITTING ON TOP OF GRAND PIANOS AND UPRIGHT PIANOS. NO ONE SEEMS TO BE ADVERTISING TALL TRIPODS FOR DIGITAL PIANOS BUT NICE UPLOAD YOU HAVE THERE ANYWAY. THANKS
you're welcome! 🙌
Innorel MT70C highly under rated and as good as a 550 manfrotto
thanks for sharing that!
Very good only thing missing might be tripods and water sealing 😊
good point! which are your favorite water sealed models?
@@ViewfinderMastery Possibly Benro. Where the lower leg is the watertight section. Great vid by the way. I learned things here.
Can you demonstrate a gimbal head?
sorry, I cant because I don’t own one! no need for it really. 🤷♂️
Does size really matter? Mr Anderson: “They don’t call me the human tripod for no reason!”. 😁 thanks so much for this informative video 🙏 Looking to get a tripod and have watched dozens of CZcams videos, majority blatantly pushing one brand and dissing another. I learned more from this video than all of those put together. 👍👍
😄 Well I'm very glad to be of service! Thanks for watching and commenting.👍
Im looking for a tripod for my DJI Action4 and im in thr market for a Sony Camera. Something that extends and is of course sturdy.... Im 5'10😮
best luck with your search! 👍
@@ViewfinderMastery That's the answer I was looking for, thanks!
Something of a side-tip, but always double check prices to the standard mongers. I paid ~2x what I was hoping to on a tripod from the usual suppliers, but the bro-dude on CZcams selling them would have charged me ~3x.
A wood tripod sounds cool to have in the studio though.
yeah, wood sure is fashionable! 👍
URGENT- i have had my fingers, or wallet burnt trying to get a tripod to keep my Nikon D 750 steady. Options in Karachi, Pakistan very limited so i plan to ask my niece to bring me one from the States. I locally purchased a VF Weifeng Professional WF -6663A, recommended by the Nikon shop here. Legs are sturdy, that's good. But the top part the camera sits on wobbles ever so slightly. Anyway, the clip on the base to sit the camera has snapped off.
I am not a professional. I enjoy outdoor scenes, flowers, eye level insect photographs.
Your suggestion would be much appreciated. MOST URGENT. Thanks.
suggestions can be found in the video. good luck! 👍
🎯
Danke vielmals!
I don't mean to be critical but if the purpose of keeping one's equipment light as possible why would a landscape photographer require a battery grip?
Good observation.👍I only find myself using the battery grip when shooting birds, wildlife and sports. when I'm just doing landscape shots I do prefer to go as light as possible and usually that means taking the smaller, lighter Gitzo tripod. 📷
I am on a fixed income and when you said that dreaded word Gitzo, you lost me. So I guess I am stuck with my old Slik 700DX. In an ideal world, we'd all have the best equipment, but sometimes you just have to work with what you have. It just seems photography these days is for the wealthy, which is really discouraging.
well George, I personally don't think it is (just for the wealthy) but here on CZcams, there are many who put the gear before the creativity, because headlines about new toys get more clicks than the other stuff. check out our YT channel if you you're looking for some fun creative exercises. helping you improve your photography is our specialty at Viewfinder Mastery! 👍
I have only two hands and I have 5 tripods/ 😞
we have a few too many as well. 😉
Not bad, but to up your game watch some Ken Rockwell presentations. They skip the needless wordiness, appeals to philosophy (it will end in tears guaranteed), and tedious canned music to just get to the salient points of pure camera work. I think a bit of adoption of Ken's concision would improve your channel.
thanks for your feedback!
so many wasted words
not exactly sure what to make of this comment.. 🤔
You wasted 3+ minutes with useless “intro” time. Would prefer you get to the meat of your message within 15 seconds like some of the other offerings do.
Geez, I'm so sorry! Would you like your money back? You know, feedback doesn't need to be so grouchy señor! 🙄
I didn’t watch and still bought.
enjoy your new tripod 👍