Really well put Tom. Completely agree - everyone has a right to be there. Doesn’t make it any less frustrating though... 🤦♂️ I have to say that in the lakes this week I found there to be a lot of very considerate photographers 👍
Awesome looking tripod. I'm no professional by any means so i know that some guys who are have a proper attitude when they see me with my canon 70d or 1200 d. They look at me with a disgusted look as if to say HA! WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE? One guy even took the time to speak to me. He said I STARTED OFF WITH A WATER PISTOL TOO, BUT NOW I'VE GOT A PROPER JOB. I just smiled and hoped he'd drop his camera in the sea. I dont like to ask folk to move. I just find another competition untill the coast is clear. Great video again Tom thanks.
This sentiment from both of you guys is part of why I enjoy your content and approach so much. The photography community, as with any, is so heavily influenced by the mentors and voices folks look to. Living and showcasing / teaching and advocating for a relaxed and friendly inclusive humble approach is as powerful as it is valuable. Thank you!
Just shows why you are so admired… a more recent video where you took care to move around a beach to not leave footmarks was just incredible to see. Respect Tom.
THANK YOU. I was literally SHOVED out of the way by some older dude with a big camera at a public viewing platform. He walked up and just pushed me aside so he could stand where I was. Seriously. These guys still exist and where they are mouthy to men they can be more physically demanding to women, esp small women when they think they can get away with it. I told him off and made him move, but it sticks with me. What would have happened if we'd have been alone. He didn't even ask me to just move for a moment, which I would have done. He just wanted to be where I was, where I'd gotten up early to be.... , and I'd not been there long, never mind hours. He just walked up and pushed me to stand there. You are completely right. It is selfish to think a photographer is the only one who has the right to anywhere out in nature. Yet a polite request for just a quick minute out of the way is totally fine. I even often offer and stand aside when I see someone trying to get a shot. As long as they aren't set up expecting us all to wait hours without enjoying the spot ourselves. Thank you for teaching good behaviour.
That's atrocious behaviour. He's not worth your time dwelling on him. Everyone should respect each other and you were obviously prepared to share your spot. Some people eh? Keep doing what you do and keep being awesome!
You are right. And I remember how cautious your where in one of you're earlier videos ... when you did your best not to put your tracks in the sand on the beach ... Nice of you! To be polite, and care about other photographers! Thumbs upp!
Thomas, you lucked out on your tripod choice. I did lots of homework and have the same one (My wife and I share 3 Induro sticks of different sizes.) We had a quiver of RRS sticks and heads that have all been sold and replaced with Induro Sticks and three different brand heads: 1 for ball head (Arca Swiss Monoball), 1 for gimbal (Mongoose 3.6 Gimbal Head), 1 for pan/tilt (Manfrotto 405.). I have the ball head mounted on the standard base plate, pan tilt mounted on a center column and the gimbal on a leveling base. All of them drop right in that awesome wide stable module Grand base. It is the best "System" we have found and have a lot of hours pounding them into submission in pursuit of the shot😎🤙 Our Induro sticks spend time in knee deep salt water which we try to rinse before collapsing them if we can find a beach shower. After a while, I find they are very easy to pull apart and drop the whole kit in a warm bath to soak. Keep up the good work. Oh, yea! I find it easier to clone out than confront. I am personally glad to see people out enjoying the scene I am trying to capture and feel saddened if I am the only one around to enjoy it. My wife and I were shoulder to shoulder, tripods nested with 30 other photographers taking a sunrise shot of Mesa Arch, we both got fantastic shots, but the best part was talking with photographers from around the world. Enjoy life, enjoy people, and get the shot if you can.
Your Character is the best picture you can share with the world, Thomas. I'm a subscriber before the first 10.000 and i'm glad you have not change since then! Your love and respect for the surroundings is still the same! Keep up the great work! Cheers from Greece. 🤗🤗🤗
I really admire how humble you are. And I even saw tears in your eyes when they came in your shot which I can completely understand. Keep up the good work...
🧡 Enduro Tripods. Bought the travel tripod (GTT204M2) last year. I’ve had the 304 carbon fiber version for 5 years. Sturdy, no maintenance, and east to take apart and clean. The one you have is a monster !
For many many years, I've used the same Manfrotto that you used to use. Manfrotto makes spiked feet for it, which have the added advantage of also letting you use rubber feet. Since this is my only tripod, I can use it with spikes in grass or with rubber on the wood floors of my house. Weight is the biggest issue for me, so I prefer the lighter weight of the Manfrotto. I also strap it to the side of my bag and it fits nicely into one of the side pockets, which the Induro will not do. I occasionally have needed the center pole, and shoot at a very fast shutter speed to compensate. Finally, you can put the Manfrotto to the ground by sliding the center pole up and to the side. It's a bit awkward but its workable. I also rinse it off with fresh water after every trip where it might have picked up mud or salt.
Great to see the patience and humility to accept that you're not entitled to take the shot. In an era of instant gratification and point and shoot photos, it's nice to see someone exhibit the patience or simply accept that you may not get the shot on that day. As for the knackered Manfrotto tripod, try carefully drilling the old bolts out and should be able to find some replacements. Keep up the great content Tom, great job
You know... I'm the type to plonk down a massive sentry gun type tripod, and I totally have the massive car to go with it. BUT I love nothing more than talking with amateur photographers. I do talk about gear, and swap stories, but I love amateurs the best. They're just starting their journey and whether it's a hobby for them or they're learning it as a profession, they ALWAYS remind me why I got into it. Their enthusiasm, and their totally fresh perspective is amazing to listen to and learn from. I've lost count of the amount of times some self-described newbie has blown my mind with the little tricks they thought of or their innovations that solve problems we as professionals just aren't aware of. It's brilliant. We should all take the time to enjoy the photography and learn from one another, otherwise it's just a race to the bottom, and that's no fun at all. Love your videos Thomas, best wishes.
Really like all your videos Thomas! You've inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and try to film my own blog. We'll just have to see how it works out. Thanks again and keep the great videos coming!
Thomas, I have the same Manfrotto tripod as your old one. If you ever fix it, you could also change the feet for rubber feet with retractable spikes (Manfrotto 204SPK3). The spikes are a little short and, because they’re threaded to allow movement of the rubber domes, you need to keep them clean. But otherwise I’ve found them to be a decent upgrade to the tripod.
This is how i feel about things, as a wildlife/macro photographer you get what you get, you can't always control everything, its the challenge of getting the shot that makes the whole process worthwhile.
Interesting comment about crowds coming into your shot. I do find that especially now during COVID, when hordes of people seem to be flocking to the outdoors here, trying to find a quiet spot is more and more challenging. You're right in that other people have a right to be there too but a few people just have no consideration at all and will walk right in front of you. Most times, I just embrace the situation and if it works, include them into my composition. I had one photographer who wanted a similar composition to mine and without a word to me, set his tripod legs up between two of mine - banging into my tripod legs in the process. That was a bit much and I told him to back off, which he did. Thankfully, that seems to be an isolated incident.
Nice to hear your thought process of asking people to move. I probably would've been patient as well. My ears perked up when you mentioned Hunts. I grew up a couple towns away from their first location which started as a pharmacy. There's quite a bit of history in the company....clipped from their website: Begun as a pharmacy in 1889 and acquired by pharmacist Solomon Farber in 1952, Hunt's began building its camera business during the 1950s under the visionary leadership of Solomon's son, Jack. As interest in photography grew, Hunt's began shifting its emphasis from the pharmacy business to the business of cameras and accessories. By 1993, imaging equipment became Hunt's primary focus. Last time I was there, the pharmacy was still a small part of daily operations.
I've only ever asked people to move one time. I was taking one of the best images of my life, a singular sunset at the Grand Canyon. I had studied the weather in general for a couple years and in that season specifically for two weeks to pick the right day to drive over from Los Angeles. It was a once in a lifetime perfect weather situation. There was a couple sitting in the frame. There was really only one spot for the right composition. I politely explained the situation and asked for two minutes. They obliged. I think it's ok if it's a rare enough circumstance but when I mean rare I say I've been shooting landscapes for more than a decade and I've only ever done it once.
Very enjoyable and informative video, most of all your pertinent message about sharing the scenery. Nice to hear you found a good tripod at Hunt's Photo & Video; I first purchased from them back in the 1980's and 90% of my current gear is from their Manchester, NH store. I always look forward to seeing your next video.
Nicely put words regarding some other photographers and people being in a shot. Be we photographers, tourists, walkers or whatever we are all equal and no more important than anyone else. I think it’s important to respect others and the landscape itself. The tripod looks like it would be very stable, think you made a good purchase there 👍🏻
Won't lie but you could still be a #Nice' photographer and just politely ask them to move if they would be able/ willing to.. it's not entitlement its basic common decency to ask. I think the basic and real true answer is that you were just a bit afraid to upset someone Thom and that isn't a bad thing - I believe this to be more true considering your emotions after your friend asked them to move.
This is my view as well. Admittedly, being 5'2" and cute helps, because I can politely ask them to move, just for long enough to get the shot. And I've honestly never had someone get upset about it.
Another great wee video Tom and I think deep down a lot of us are a bit shy when it comes to asking strangers to kindly move or pose or whatever but handled absolutely correctly. New tripod looks fab and indeed very stable, good luck, may you get many happy years from it, thanks for sharing.
Hi Thomas! As always, great content! Your are my greatest inspiration for getting out for photography and you have helped me so much on my own small journey trying to capture great images. This might be the first time I slightly disagree with something you said. Not about avoiding being an entitled, big-tripodded photographer, but about asking people to move. Albeit dependent on the situation, asking a few people to move to get the shot does not fall into that category. I find that if you ask politely people are more than happy to move and most often it's because they didn't notice that they were in the shot. If, however, this is what people are actually thinking about me when I ask, I might stop doing that. Anyway, your deeper message about not owning the landscape, I fully endorse!
Wow! Heaton bought something that I’ve been using for 3 years now. I am really happy about my Induro GIT304L. I’ve got two of the bases: one for landscape and panoramas and the other for my wildlife setup, with the Wimberley head mounted to it. I truly love the fact that you can completely disassemble and clean it. TMI, but I’ve had a few showers with that tripod now. You will really enjoy this piece of kit Thomas.
Had similar experiences. Last year other “professional” got too close to a snowy owl nest. Scared them away ruining it for every one. Many experiences with others moving in front of every one else. Your comments are right on.
I've used your new tripod's little brother for about seven years and I think you'll come to really appreciate it. I've never had a problem, it's rock solid and I love mine. FYI that removable center core allows you to replace it with something known as a centering column, which is probably more interesting for video than still, but it lets you level the camera on the tripod without the hassles of trying to tweak each leg and getting it right. all in all, a good purchase if you ask me.
Totally understand where you're coming from Thomas! Thankfully I live in an area where people are super nice and won't mind moving for a few moments so I can get a shot! I've stood in the middle of a street with my tripod( it wasn't that busy of a street) but when cars passed me they all waved and said hi! I think it all just matters on the culture and environment you're in at the time! Love your work! Keep it up!
Late last year i was at a lookout in the mountains west of where i live shooting a casual shot in not so good light just for the record and some young people with oversized smartphones and who were noisy and obnoxious just shoved there way in and started "Instagramming" then one of them destroyed a prominant grass tree flower spike that was over the fence (these iconic aussie plants take years to grow to maturity). As much as i want to believe that being the better person will change the world, the reality is in my area its getting worse and people like that are becoming very commonplace at the easy to get to lookouts and walks. And dont get me started on tourists who have NO boundaries and no respect for others or for the place where they are at. I know its a bit of a negative comment but thats what we face here in our area on a regular basis and it does make you want to just yell at people after a while! Phew i think i need to find a quiet space :-) haha
True, everyone has a right to be there. But everyone has the duty to be polite and ask if they are blocking somebody else. Being polite and unobstrusive to others is free and always highly appreciated. I have had a couple of people that would see me already set up and carelessly stand in front of the camera to get their shot. I also have a tripod with the same spikes: I wanted to poke those people!
Loving the ambience of your studio and will be great to how you;ve set it up when completed. In terms of the new tripod, are you looking to switch to a new ballhead or you planning to stick with the manfrotto?
Arcatech GP for versatility and compactness. Dpreview rated it #1 amongst midsize. FLM and RRS are other high end brands for heavyweight setups. Also the part that comes out is handy for putting in a leveling base. Usually for video when the legs aren't level but you need the camera to be. For affordable beefy tripods for those who can't get an Induro, I've had good luck with the Innorel RT80C. Sirui also makes an aluminum W series tripod meant to be waterproof and super tall.
I've got a regular 055 Manfrotto, but those clamps are replaceable parts. I replaced mines years ago. I think you will be able to fix your carbon fiber tripod as well. And one more thing, Induro and Benro are owned by the same company.
Thomas, so far as I know, Induro and Benro are both brands of a Chinese parent firm. Yilee, makes both, and is distributed by MAC Group in the USA. I have had an Induro for some time, and it is very sturdy, but not quite as nice (light) as the Miller it was a knock off of. Very well made though, so a good buy. Recently I got a lighter travel model from Desmond, a small US distributor of Chinese brands, and I really like it as my “light option”. I got spikes for both, which is useful. You might actually like the leveling bowl for your Induro, it does make pianos quicker to set up. Notice about Induro : www.imaginginfo.com/publication/article.jsp?id=2065&pubId=2
Funny you mention and show the Hawaii lava flow by the ocean. I'm often out there by myself for several hours set up in a spot where the only way anyone can be in front of me is if they're quite possibly going to die and it never fails come sunrise someone does it. That's why 99% of the time I hike somewhere so difficult to reach there's no chance of ever seeing another human being. If you go to the ocean entry from sunrise to sunset it's going to be crowded. Especially when its easy to reach. Those ropes are often set ridiculously far back. Up until recent years, they never roped ocean entries off. Where those two women were sitting wasn't any more dangerous than where you were at the rope at that time but, they shouldn't have done that while others are trying to view the ocean entry. But, it's not for you, me or anyone else other than park rangers to be policing what others do out there. If I know its a rare opportunity for a shot I'll politely ask people to move for a minute or two. Only on a rare occasion do I have to throw anyone over the cliff into the ocean :-) It's the idiots who show up and spend the entire time talking loudly to each other or on the phone that is annoying. Worse yet, tour groups and the obnoxious tour guide. When shooting video I often polity ask anyone near me if they could give me 30 seconds of quiet so I can get a short clip. Only if I was already there when they arrived or it's not a huge crowd. I thank them and we all enjoy the outing. I've been shooting there since 1991 so, I know what's coming every sunrise at the ocean entries unless its just so far of a hike I'll be alone. The good old days it was just me, myself and I at ocean entries. No lava now so, no worries on crowds. Bottom line, if it's easy to reach expect crowds and many annoying people so, hike where others won't go. I've made a career doing just that. Both of those tripods are huge...Wait until you hit 50. Your tripod won't weigh more than 3 lbs.
Great comment about “owning” the scene. Also, my experience is that for every situation where a person is “in the way” I have 25 cases where people graciously, and on their own, move out of the shoot.
Yes everyone has the right to be there. Rude of them to walk into your shot. I had a similar thing happen at the same arch. In my case I waited and was about to take the shot when a lady with 10 kids showed up. She looked at me and asked, would you like me to hold them back for you to take a shot. I gratefully accepted and she even kept other people from wandering into the shot. In return I took pictures of her with her kids with the arch using her camera for her. Sometimes the right thing happens when you are patient. Thanks for sharing your story
You know, I love the outro music you have on your videos...I always listen to the end just to enjoy it...Doing my part to up your audience retention stats ;)
Really enjoyed last weeks video Thomas! It was initially bugging me you wouldn't bother politely asking them to scoot because they almost certainly would and probably wouldn't think much of it.... but you really changed my opinion shortly after when you clarified that they have just as much a right to be there as you do. I think you explained yourself perfectly well the first time around but thanks for sharing your story! It's a good part of why I think your photography channel does so well! Keep it up, hope to see you in the field some day!
I agree with Nick’s approach. It doesn’t’ have to be either suffer in silence or be confrontational. I ask people ‘if they wouldn’t mind moving’ with no expectation that they will move - merely that I am asking them a favour. It always works as most people haven’t even noticed me and are very willing to move and even have a chat about what I’m doing and what they’re doing. I only once had a confrontational idiot a long long time ago and I just walked away and moved my camera. Always be polite and respectful (as you said it’s not my landscape) but always ask. It’s not a problem... unless you’re British ;-)
I've used a couple of Induro tripods for several years and can confirm that they are great and reliable long term. The twist clamp connections are also really easy to disassemble and clean and you won't have any corrosion issues with them as they are all plastic and carbon fibre.
Bang on Thomas. Just recently was put in the same situation. Went down my local beach (Birling Gap) for a Sunset. Some guy using a GoPro asked if I could stay out of the shot. I said sure, take your shot & i'll be on my way along the few miles of beach. He then remarks... "I'm doing a timelapse & don't want you in my shot"..!! I enlightened the fellow.. "This beach belongs to everyone, you don't get Carte Blanche on a public / national park area". He then remarks.. "Well, walk along the cliff face & shoot from there". If anyone knows this area well like I do, that is one thing you don't do. It's prone to rock falls & also landslides. Obviously I told him where he could stick his GoPro & I wasn't prepared to put my life in danger, so he could get his timelapse. Gotta take the rough with the smooth with photography, especially when timelapsing. As for the snobbery in Photography, I own a Canon 700d & use it to it's full potential. I know it's crop & I know it's entry, doesn't mean that guy with the 1D etc etc is going to pull off a better composition, gear doesn't make the shot it just helps with what it can do.
Good choice of tripod Thomas! I think you'll be happy with it over the long haul. I purchased a similar Induro tripod several years back and it has served me very well. Never had any quality issues with it and it's still working as it did the first week I had it. I wouldn't hesitate to by another Induro product in the future.
Tom, I really appreciate your thoughts on the situation in the last video - I think its a very good application of the golden rule - all to rare these days. Also, I've had that model Induro for a while and think its great. I hope it serves you well.
Thomas, a little blue Loctite (non-permanent thread sealer) will do the trick on the screw-in tripod feet. It works the keep them from coming out accidentally, but is non-permanent if you need to swap-out for the spikes.
You get a long way in life with a smile and asking politely =) I was very skeptic when you bought that light benro tripod but congrats with the new “heavyweight” =)
Well said life’s too short to stress about having fun. There will be other opportunities for sure. Nice tripod I’m sure it will treat ya right. Thanks for sharing
Fantastic tripod Thomas, I have the same model and love it. A favorite among wildlife photographers as it became obvious as an alternative to Gitzo at half the price.
Nice shout out to Hunt's Photo! I've been a customer of theirs since they were in Malden Ma (now many locations). First class people and originization!
Hey Tom, how does that wide center plate work carrying the tripod on your backpack? Also, I'm very interested in switching from screw-on filters to a filter holder. Would you consider doing a review of your filter system, explaining which filters you find most useful and best practices? Cheers!
Crazy, years back I bought an 055 Magfiber (similar to your 055) and about a year ago I bought a Induro GIT404XL. Just like you, I realized how insanely stable it was nearly instantly. I think you'll be happy with it. I'm just a little sad, as its hard to travel with mine. I have to take checked bag for short trips because of the length, but I may buy a GIT305L if I see a great price and keep short trips to carry on. One other thing, their warranty is second to none. A quick call and a picture, and they send you a replacement segment to bolt on. Great company.
My experience with Manfrotto and Induro is pretty extensive and they both have good and bad points. Watch your legs extending with the induro as one leg on my CLT 413 has a habit coming off completely which is a pain but easily fixed. I used to use the 055probx but i got sick of the center column screws breaking on me every few weeks and constantly catching my hands in the snap locks, so i switched to enduro because their center column lock nuts are absolutely unbreakable! Plus they give you a bag that fits your head and spikes and a mini center column for when you want to go low to the ground and you cant catch your hands in the twist locks!
Totally get this. What I encoutered on Isle of Skye is the other way around. A lot of tourists see someone with a tripod setting up, so there must be a beautiful photo there. And they just walk up to you, right in front of your camera, because you know "it'll only take a minute"...
Loving the look of the new studio. Some acoustic treatment when you get a moment would really help. I am with you on not moving the people who were "in the way". I have just come back from Whitestable Bay, I had a lovely composition in mind but there was a family having a picnic right where I wanted to stand. I wouldn't ever dream of asking them to move. Keep up the good work.
I this is in reference to he tripod induro. Since it’s been 2 years, can you give us feedback if you still like it or not? And any issues with it? Thank You.
Induro have some nice sturdy tripods, but the bubble level have failed/stopp working on both that i own. Also failed on my induro ball head (bhl2). Lets hope this is not the case for you, since you do panoramas!
Daniel Pedersen I don’t think I’ll get another induro. The screws wore out and the legs went loose on me. Can’t even tighten them anymore. Meanwhile, my manfrotto I had for years before and still have it. I think I may get the carbon version of the manfrotto I have. Either his or the new pro4 version. I think they are the best built that I’ve tried so far.
Really well put Tom. Completely agree - everyone has a right to be there. Doesn’t make it any less frustrating though... 🤦♂️ I have to say that in the lakes this week I found there to be a lot of very considerate photographers 👍
Thanks dude. I heard you were knocking about the Lakes. We must have missed each other by a couple of miles.
Thomas Heaton yep - running workshop - stunning few days.
Awesome looking tripod.
I'm no professional by any means so i know that some guys who are have a proper attitude when they see me with my canon 70d or 1200 d. They look at me with a disgusted look as if to say HA! WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE? One guy even took the time to speak to me. He said I STARTED OFF WITH A WATER PISTOL TOO, BUT NOW I'VE GOT A PROPER JOB.
I just smiled and hoped he'd drop his camera in the sea. I dont like to ask folk to move. I just find another competition untill the coast is clear. Great video again Tom thanks.
Sorry i ment ANOTHER COMPOSITION.
This sentiment from both of you guys is part of why I enjoy your content and approach so much. The photography community, as with any, is so heavily influenced by the mentors and voices folks look to. Living and showcasing / teaching and advocating for a relaxed and friendly inclusive humble approach is as powerful as it is valuable. Thank you!
Thomas, you made my day in the last video. You should never apologize for being kind and giving photographers a good name.
Just shows why you are so admired… a more recent video where you took care to move around a beach to not leave footmarks was just incredible to see. Respect Tom.
THANK YOU. I was literally SHOVED out of the way by some older dude with a big camera at a public viewing platform. He walked up and just pushed me aside so he could stand where I was. Seriously. These guys still exist and where they are mouthy to men they can be more physically demanding to women, esp small women when they think they can get away with it. I told him off and made him move, but it sticks with me. What would have happened if we'd have been alone.
He didn't even ask me to just move for a moment, which I would have done. He just wanted to be where I was, where I'd gotten up early to be.... , and I'd not been there long, never mind hours. He just walked up and pushed me to stand there. You are completely right. It is selfish to think a photographer is the only one who has the right to anywhere out in nature.
Yet a polite request for just a quick minute out of the way is totally fine. I even often offer and stand aside when I see someone trying to get a shot. As long as they aren't set up expecting us all to wait hours without enjoying the spot ourselves.
Thank you for teaching good behaviour.
That's atrocious behaviour. He's not worth your time dwelling on him. Everyone should respect each other and you were obviously prepared to share your spot. Some people eh? Keep doing what you do and keep being awesome!
I am planning to get the MT055CXPRO3. What are your views about it?
I have watched everyone of your videos and admire you as an artist. But today, my respect for you grew several folds...
You are right. And I remember how cautious your where in one of you're earlier videos ... when you did your best not to put your tracks in the sand on the beach ... Nice of you! To be polite, and care about other photographers! Thumbs upp!
Ah yes, I must return to Harris. Beautiful beaches :)
Completely agree. Stay true to you Tom 👍
Thomas, you lucked out on your tripod choice. I did lots of homework and have the same one (My wife and I share 3 Induro sticks of different sizes.) We had a quiver of RRS sticks and heads that have all been sold and replaced with Induro Sticks and three different brand heads: 1 for ball head (Arca Swiss Monoball), 1 for gimbal (Mongoose 3.6 Gimbal Head), 1 for pan/tilt (Manfrotto 405.). I have the ball head mounted on the standard base plate, pan tilt mounted on a center column and the gimbal on a leveling base. All of them drop right in that awesome wide stable module Grand base. It is the best "System" we have found and have a lot of hours pounding them into submission in pursuit of the shot😎🤙 Our Induro sticks spend time in knee deep salt water which we try to rinse before collapsing them if we can find a beach shower. After a while, I find they are very easy to pull apart and drop the whole kit in a warm bath to soak. Keep up the good work. Oh, yea! I find it easier to clone out than confront. I am personally glad to see people out enjoying the scene I am trying to capture and feel saddened if I am the only one around to enjoy it. My wife and I were shoulder to shoulder, tripods nested with 30 other photographers taking a sunrise shot of Mesa Arch, we both got fantastic shots, but the best part was talking with photographers from around the world. Enjoy life, enjoy people, and get the shot if you can.
Your Character is the best picture you can share with the world, Thomas. I'm a subscriber before the first 10.000 and i'm glad you have not change since then! Your love and respect for the surroundings is still the same! Keep up the great work! Cheers from Greece. 🤗🤗🤗
Love your comments on gear and people. Cheers
I really admire how humble you are. And I even saw tears in your eyes when they came in your shot which I can completely understand. Keep up the good work...
🧡 Enduro Tripods. Bought the travel tripod (GTT204M2) last year. I’ve had the 304 carbon fiber version for 5 years. Sturdy, no maintenance, and east to take apart and clean. The one you have is a monster !
For many many years, I've used the same Manfrotto that you used to use. Manfrotto makes spiked feet for it, which have the added advantage of also letting you use rubber feet. Since this is my only tripod, I can use it with spikes in grass or with rubber on the wood floors of my house. Weight is the biggest issue for me, so I prefer the lighter weight of the Manfrotto. I also strap it to the side of my bag and it fits nicely into one of the side pockets, which the Induro will not do. I occasionally have needed the center pole, and shoot at a very fast shutter speed to compensate. Finally, you can put the Manfrotto to the ground by sliding the center pole up and to the side. It's a bit awkward but its workable. I also rinse it off with fresh water after every trip where it might have picked up mud or salt.
You're a gentleman....total respect you for your comments....makes me appreciate your work more !
Great to see the patience and humility to accept that you're not entitled to take the shot. In an era of instant gratification and point and shoot photos, it's nice to see someone exhibit the patience or simply accept that you may not get the shot on that day. As for the knackered Manfrotto tripod, try carefully drilling the old bolts out and should be able to find some replacements. Keep up the great content Tom, great job
Thank you for reminding all of us that character is the true measure of a person, regardless of their station in life.
You know... I'm the type to plonk down a massive sentry gun type tripod, and I totally have the massive car to go with it. BUT I love nothing more than talking with amateur photographers. I do talk about gear, and swap stories, but I love amateurs the best. They're just starting their journey and whether it's a hobby for them or they're learning it as a profession, they ALWAYS remind me why I got into it. Their enthusiasm, and their totally fresh perspective is amazing to listen to and learn from. I've lost count of the amount of times some self-described newbie has blown my mind with the little tricks they thought of or their innovations that solve problems we as professionals just aren't aware of. It's brilliant.
We should all take the time to enjoy the photography and learn from one another, otherwise it's just a race to the bottom, and that's no fun at all.
Love your videos Thomas, best wishes.
I love how humble you are Thomas! Great inspiration :)
Really like all your videos Thomas! You've inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and try to film my own blog. We'll just have to see how it works out. Thanks again and keep the great videos coming!
Thomas, I have the same Manfrotto tripod as your old one. If you ever fix it, you could also change the feet for rubber feet with retractable spikes (Manfrotto 204SPK3).
The spikes are a little short and, because they’re threaded to allow movement of the rubber domes, you need to keep them clean. But otherwise I’ve found them to be a decent upgrade to the tripod.
This is how i feel about things, as a wildlife/macro photographer you get what you get, you can't always control everything, its the challenge of getting the shot that makes the whole process worthwhile.
Great advice Tom. Good to stay humble and also allow others to enjoy the landscape as much and we do.
Interesting comment about crowds coming into your shot. I do find that especially now during COVID, when hordes of people seem to be flocking to the outdoors here, trying to find a quiet spot is more and more challenging. You're right in that other people have a right to be there too but a few people just have no consideration at all and will walk right in front of you. Most times, I just embrace the situation and if it works, include them into my composition. I had one photographer who wanted a similar composition to mine and without a word to me, set his tripod legs up between two of mine - banging into my tripod legs in the process. That was a bit much and I told him to back off, which he did. Thankfully, that seems to be an isolated incident.
Nice to hear your thought process of asking people to move. I probably would've been patient as well.
My ears perked up when you mentioned Hunts. I grew up a couple towns away from their first location which started as a pharmacy. There's quite a bit of history in the company....clipped from their website:
Begun as a pharmacy in 1889 and acquired by pharmacist Solomon Farber in 1952, Hunt's began building its camera business during the 1950s under the visionary leadership of Solomon's son, Jack. As interest in photography grew, Hunt's began shifting its emphasis from the pharmacy business to the business of cameras and accessories. By 1993, imaging equipment became Hunt's primary focus.
Last time I was there, the pharmacy was still a small part of daily operations.
Thomas, I’m so glad you said exactly how I feel about that crowd! They’re the primary source of litter too!!
I've only ever asked people to move one time. I was taking one of the best images of my life, a singular sunset at the Grand Canyon. I had studied the weather in general for a couple years and in that season specifically for two weeks to pick the right day to drive over from Los Angeles. It was a once in a lifetime perfect weather situation. There was a couple sitting in the frame. There was really only one spot for the right composition. I politely explained the situation and asked for two minutes. They obliged. I think it's ok if it's a rare enough circumstance but when I mean rare I say I've been shooting landscapes for more than a decade and I've only ever done it once.
Very enjoyable and informative video, most of all your pertinent message about sharing the scenery. Nice to hear you found a good tripod at Hunt's Photo & Video; I first purchased from them back in the 1980's and 90% of my current gear is from their Manchester, NH store. I always look forward to seeing your next video.
Nicely put words regarding some other photographers and people being in a shot. Be we photographers, tourists, walkers or whatever we are all equal and no more important than anyone else. I think it’s important to respect others and the landscape itself. The tripod looks like it would be very stable, think you made a good purchase there 👍🏻
Won't lie but you could still be a #Nice' photographer and just politely ask them to move if they would be able/ willing to.. it's not entitlement its basic common decency to ask. I think the basic and real true answer is that you were just a bit afraid to upset someone Thom and that isn't a bad thing - I believe this to be more true considering your emotions after your friend asked them to move.
This is my view as well. Admittedly, being 5'2" and cute helps, because I can politely ask them to move, just for long enough to get the shot. And I've honestly never had someone get upset about it.
Do they stammer when they reply?
Another great wee video Tom and I think deep down a lot of us are a bit shy when it comes to asking strangers to kindly move or pose or whatever but handled absolutely correctly. New tripod looks fab and indeed very stable, good luck, may you get many happy years from it, thanks for sharing.
Good for you sir! I love your perspective!
Very practical. I’m a fan of you now 🧡
Hi Thomas!
As always, great content! Your are my greatest inspiration for getting out for photography and you have helped me so much on my own small journey trying to capture great images. This might be the first time I slightly disagree with something you said. Not about avoiding being an entitled, big-tripodded photographer, but about asking people to move. Albeit dependent on the situation, asking a few people to move to get the shot does not fall into that category. I find that if you ask politely people are more than happy to move and most often it's because they didn't notice that they were in the shot. If, however, this is what people are actually thinking about me when I ask, I might stop doing that. Anyway, your deeper message about not owning the landscape, I fully endorse!
Such respect and humility... you’re a good guy Thomas Heaton
Wow! Heaton bought something that I’ve been using for 3 years now. I am really happy about my Induro GIT304L. I’ve got two of the bases: one for landscape and panoramas and the other for my wildlife setup, with the Wimberley head mounted to it. I truly love the fact that you can completely disassemble and clean it. TMI, but I’ve had a few showers with that tripod now. You will really enjoy this piece of kit Thomas.
Had similar experiences. Last year other “professional” got too close to a snowy owl nest. Scared them away ruining it for every one. Many experiences with others moving in front of every one else. Your comments are right on.
Great video Thomas!
I've used your new tripod's little brother for about seven years and I think you'll come to really appreciate it. I've never had a problem, it's rock solid and I love mine. FYI that removable center core allows you to replace it with something known as a centering column, which is probably more interesting for video than still, but it lets you level the camera on the tripod without the hassles of trying to tweak each leg and getting it right. all in all, a good purchase if you ask me.
man that is one big tripod! :O
thanks for sharing all this beautiful content with us!
really enjoyed watching this
Totally understand where you're coming from Thomas! Thankfully I live in an area where people are super nice and won't mind moving for a few moments so I can get a shot! I've stood in the middle of a street with my tripod( it wasn't that busy of a street) but when cars passed me they all waved and said hi! I think it all just matters on the culture and environment you're in at the time! Love your work! Keep it up!
You are so right. Thanks for sharing.
Very very well said Tom, a great example to us all
“Salt Crustaceans” are now my new favorite tripod feature.
Absolutely spot on Tom.
So the camera screws straight onto the flat top plate? How do you tilt it up and down or into portrait orientation? Ty
Wonderful first class response Thomas ..... as we say in Italian ... Alla grande ! Sei proprio un bravo esempio.
Love it. Great observational content (made me laugh) and a good straight forward review.
Late last year i was at a lookout in the mountains west of where i live shooting a casual shot in not so good light just for the record and some young people with oversized smartphones and who were noisy and obnoxious just shoved there way in and started "Instagramming" then one of them destroyed a prominant grass tree flower spike that was over the fence (these iconic aussie plants take years to grow to maturity). As much as i want to believe that being the better person will change the world, the reality is in my area its getting worse and people like that are becoming very commonplace at the easy to get to lookouts and walks. And dont get me started on tourists who have NO boundaries and no respect for others or for the place where they are at. I know its a bit of a negative comment but thats what we face here in our area on a regular basis and it does make you want to just yell at people after a while! Phew i think i need to find a quiet space :-) haha
True, everyone has a right to be there. But everyone has the duty to be polite and ask if they are blocking somebody else. Being polite and unobstrusive to others is free and always highly appreciated. I have had a couple of people that would see me already set up and carelessly stand in front of the camera to get their shot. I also have a tripod with the same spikes: I wanted to poke those people!
How do u stop sand all gettings into all the parts like the twist legs?
I have the same one and love this tripod, use it for both my gimbal head with my 500 f/4 prime and my landscape gear.
Loving the ambience of your studio and will be great to how you;ve set it up when completed. In terms of the new tripod, are you looking to switch to a new ballhead or you planning to stick with the manfrotto?
oh nooo, i also need a new ball head.
Arcatech GP for versatility and compactness. Dpreview rated it #1 amongst midsize. FLM and RRS are other high end brands for heavyweight setups.
Also the part that comes out is handy for putting in a leveling base. Usually for video when the legs aren't level but you need the camera to be.
For affordable beefy tripods for those who can't get an Induro, I've had good luck with the Innorel RT80C. Sirui also makes an aluminum W series tripod meant to be waterproof and super tall.
I've got a regular 055 Manfrotto, but those clamps are replaceable parts. I replaced mines years ago. I think you will be able to fix your carbon fiber tripod as well. And one more thing, Induro and Benro are owned by the same company.
Thomas, so far as I know, Induro and Benro are both brands of a Chinese parent firm. Yilee, makes both, and is distributed by MAC Group in the USA. I have had an Induro for some time, and it is very sturdy, but not quite as nice (light) as the Miller it was a knock off of. Very well made though, so a good buy. Recently I got a lighter travel model from Desmond, a small US distributor of Chinese brands, and I really like it as my “light option”. I got spikes for both, which is useful. You might actually like the leveling bowl for your Induro, it does make pianos quicker to set up. Notice about Induro : www.imaginginfo.com/publication/article.jsp?id=2065&pubId=2
Thomas, I was wondering about the ease of affixing the tripod to your camera bag? Does it carry well on your camera bag?
Funny you mention and show the Hawaii lava flow by the ocean. I'm often out there by myself for several hours set up in a spot where the only way anyone can be in front of me is if they're quite possibly going to die and it never fails come sunrise someone does it. That's why 99% of the time I hike somewhere so difficult to reach there's no chance of ever seeing another human being. If you go to the ocean entry from sunrise to sunset it's going to be crowded. Especially when its easy to reach. Those ropes are often set ridiculously far back. Up until recent years, they never roped ocean entries off. Where those two women were sitting wasn't any more dangerous than where you were at the rope at that time but, they shouldn't have done that while others are trying to view the ocean entry. But, it's not for you, me or anyone else other than park rangers to be policing what others do out there. If I know its a rare opportunity for a shot I'll politely ask people to move for a minute or two. Only on a rare occasion do I have to throw anyone over the cliff into the ocean :-) It's the idiots who show up and spend the entire time talking loudly to each other or on the phone that is annoying. Worse yet, tour groups and the obnoxious tour guide. When shooting video I often polity ask anyone near me if they could give me 30 seconds of quiet so I can get a short clip. Only if I was already there when they arrived or it's not a huge crowd. I thank them and we all enjoy the outing. I've been shooting there since 1991 so, I know what's coming every sunrise at the ocean entries unless its just so far of a hike I'll be alone. The good old days it was just me, myself and I at ocean entries. No lava now so, no worries on crowds. Bottom line, if it's easy to reach expect crowds and many annoying people so, hike where others won't go. I've made a career doing just that.
Both of those tripods are huge...Wait until you hit 50. Your tripod won't weigh more than 3 lbs.
Do you know if it will accept the Gitzo bowl adapter?
You're a good man, Charlie Brown. 🙂
Totally agree with you Tom, and you just confirmed my already great opinion of you! Great attitude!
Great comment about “owning” the scene.
Also, my experience is that for every situation where a person is “in the way” I have 25 cases where people graciously, and on their own, move out of the shoot.
Can you tell me what your adjustable tripod mount is in your last view videos with Gavin
The twist grips on my Giotto monopod got sand in and were a nightmare to clean compared to the Manfrotto levers, is this one sealed?
I admired your attitude towards those other photographers- you are a true gentleman. Well done!
Yes everyone has the right to be there. Rude of them to walk into your shot. I had a similar thing happen at the same arch. In my case I waited and was about to take the shot when a lady with 10 kids showed up. She looked at me and asked, would you like me to hold them back for you to take a shot. I gratefully accepted and she even kept other people from wandering into the shot. In return I took pictures of her with her kids with the arch using her camera for her. Sometimes the right thing happens when you are patient. Thanks for sharing your story
You know, I love the outro music you have on your videos...I always listen to the end just to enjoy it...Doing my part to up your audience retention stats ;)
Really enjoyed last weeks video Thomas! It was initially bugging me you wouldn't bother politely asking them to scoot because they almost certainly would and probably wouldn't think much of it.... but you really changed my opinion shortly after when you clarified that they have just as much a right to be there as you do. I think you explained yourself perfectly well the first time around but thanks for sharing your story! It's a good part of why I think your photography channel does so well! Keep it up, hope to see you in the field some day!
Im with you on this Thomas
I agree with Nick’s approach. It doesn’t’ have to be either suffer in silence or be confrontational. I ask people ‘if they wouldn’t mind moving’ with no expectation that they will move - merely that I am asking them a favour. It always works as most people haven’t even noticed me and are very willing to move and even have a chat about what I’m doing and what they’re doing. I only once had a confrontational idiot a long long time ago and I just walked away and moved my camera. Always be polite and respectful (as you said it’s not my landscape) but always ask. It’s not a problem... unless you’re British ;-)
I've used a couple of Induro tripods for several years and can confirm that they are great and reliable long term. The twist clamp connections are also really easy to disassemble and clean and you won't have any corrosion issues with them as they are all plastic and carbon fibre.
Very nice to hear a viewpoint like your explaining
Very rare now for sure
Respect my friend
Bang on Thomas. Just recently was put in the same situation. Went down my local beach (Birling Gap) for a Sunset. Some guy using a GoPro asked if I could stay out of the shot. I said sure, take your shot & i'll be on my way along the few miles of beach. He then remarks... "I'm doing a timelapse & don't want you in my shot"..!! I enlightened the fellow.. "This beach belongs to everyone, you don't get Carte Blanche on a public / national park area". He then remarks.. "Well, walk along the cliff face & shoot from there". If anyone knows this area well like I do, that is one thing you don't do. It's prone to rock falls & also landslides. Obviously I told him where he could stick his GoPro & I wasn't prepared to put my life in danger, so he could get his timelapse.
Gotta take the rough with the smooth with photography, especially when timelapsing. As for the snobbery in Photography, I own a Canon 700d & use it to it's full potential. I know it's crop & I know it's entry, doesn't mean that guy with the 1D etc etc is going to pull off a better composition, gear doesn't make the shot it just helps with what it can do.
How do you travel with it? because it is really wide.
Good choice of tripod Thomas! I think you'll be happy with it over the long haul. I purchased a similar Induro tripod several years back and it has served me very well. Never had any quality issues with it and it's still working as it did the first week I had it. I wouldn't hesitate to by another Induro product in the future.
how about customs did you declare it and get charged extra for buying overseas.
or did you not say anything
Tom, I really appreciate your thoughts on the situation in the last video - I think its a very good application of the golden rule - all to rare these days. Also, I've had that model Induro for a while and think its great. I hope it serves you well.
the spikes are awesome, I used for mine Locktite to keep them secure....!
A sane and sensible attitude to photography and life.
Thomas, a little blue Loctite (non-permanent thread sealer) will do the trick on the screw-in tripod feet. It works the keep them from coming out accidentally, but is non-permanent if you need to swap-out for the spikes.
You get a long way in life with a smile and asking politely =) I was very skeptic when you bought that light benro tripod but congrats with the new “heavyweight” =)
I recently picked up a smaller Induro Stealth. Without a doubt, best tripod I have ever owned
Well said life’s too short to stress about having fun. There will be other opportunities for sure. Nice tripod I’m sure it will treat ya right. Thanks for sharing
I second the recommendation for Hunt's. They're my local store here and they've always treated me fairly well.
Much respect! You are a true gentleman.
Fantastic tripod Thomas, I have the same model and love it. A favorite among wildlife photographers as it became obvious as an alternative to Gitzo at half the price.
Good one it for landscape photography.👍 Thank! Thomas.
How did you transport the tripod home to England? Did it go in your checked baggage or did you carry it on?
Do you remember which model of benro did you use as your unsturdy back up? I was actually considering a benro TMA37C.
Nice shout out to Hunt's Photo! I've been a customer of theirs since they were in Malden Ma (now many locations). First class people and originization!
Well said. Much respect.
Hey Tom, how does that wide center plate work carrying the tripod on your backpack? Also, I'm very interested in switching from screw-on filters to a filter holder. Would you consider doing a review of your filter system, explaining which filters you find most useful and best practices? Cheers!
Thanks for a nice vlog! Good tips and I agree with you! Everyone has to stand somewhere :)
Crazy, years back I bought an 055 Magfiber (similar to your 055) and about a year ago I bought a Induro GIT404XL. Just like you, I realized how insanely stable it was nearly instantly. I think you'll be happy with it. I'm just a little sad, as its hard to travel with mine. I have to take checked bag for short trips because of the length, but I may buy a GIT305L if I see a great price and keep short trips to carry on. One other thing, their warranty is second to none. A quick call and a picture, and they send you a replacement segment to bolt on. Great company.
I would like to try they tripod from Induro. I have a Manfrotto 190go
My experience with Manfrotto and Induro is pretty extensive and they both have good and bad points. Watch your legs extending with the induro as one leg on my CLT 413 has a habit coming off completely which is a pain but easily fixed. I used to use the 055probx but i got sick of the center column screws breaking on me every few weeks and constantly catching my hands in the snap locks, so i switched to enduro because their center column lock nuts are absolutely unbreakable! Plus they give you a bag that fits your head and spikes and a mini center column for when you want to go low to the ground and you cant catch your hands in the twist locks!
Totally get this. What I encoutered on Isle of Skye is the other way around. A lot of tourists see someone with a tripod setting up, so there must be a beautiful photo there. And they just walk up to you, right in front of your camera, because you know "it'll only take a minute"...
Loving the look of the new studio. Some acoustic treatment when you get a moment would really help. I am with you on not moving the people who were "in the way". I have just come back from Whitestable Bay, I had a lovely composition in mind but there was a family having a picnic right where I wanted to stand. I wouldn't ever dream of asking them to move. Keep up the good work.
by the smile on your face i know you had someone in mind when you were telling about those photographers. but Thomas, what a big tripod you have.
I this is in reference to he tripod induro. Since it’s been 2 years, can you give us feedback if you still like it or not? And any issues with it? Thank You.
Awesome office setup..
Looks too good 😉👍🏼
Induro have some nice sturdy tripods, but the bubble level have failed/stopp working on both that i own. Also failed on my induro ball head (bhl2). Lets hope this is not the case for you, since you do panoramas!
Daniel Pedersen I don’t think I’ll get another induro. The screws wore out and the legs went loose on me. Can’t even tighten them anymore. Meanwhile, my manfrotto I had for years before and still have it. I think I may get the carbon version of the manfrotto I have. Either his or the new pro4 version. I think they are the best built that I’ve tried so far.
Hi Tom I’ve had an Induro tripod for about 7 years & it’s great.