Tripod opinion

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snaphappy

Senior Member
Found an ad locally and wondering if it's a good choice to start out with.

Selling this professional tripod from Manfrotto of Italy. Included are a 190PRO tripod and an 804RC2 3-way head with 1 quick release mount for the camera. Everything is like new. This is a really solid tripod unit. Retail price is over $300. Sell for $150.

I'm finding that I'm going to need a tripod since holding still enough for stars or close ups with my 300mm just isn't possible. So far only have a walmart special tripod and I'm afraid to leave my D7000 on it not to mention adjusting it is a lesson in frustration.
 
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Dave_W

The Dude
If you're looking to take star photos then you do not want a pan/tilt head. You will be limited in how far upward you can point the camera. The tripod is fine but you'll need a ball head in order to take star photos.
 
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snaphappy

Senior Member
Is it a good tripod to start out with? I looked locally it's $299can if I order online I'm looking at shipping, duties and taxes. But really I just want to know if I should keep looking or if it will hold my camera for stars and far away wildlife pics without an hour of frustration trying to set it up :)
 
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snaphappy

Senior Member
Ok Thanx Dave I see that Manfrotto has differing heads can I change the head on this model? Say start with this since its local and then start searching for the ball head that suits my needs and small budget?
 
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Dave_W

The Dude
snaphappy said:
Ok Thanx Dave I see that Manfrotto has differing heads can I change the head on this model? Say start with this since its local and then start searching for the ball head that suits my needs and small budget?
Click to expand...

Yes, all Manfrotto heads will fit on Manfrotto tripods, or at least that's what I've been told. I used a Manfrotto tripod and tilt/pan head for years and it wasn't until I wanted to take star photos did I realize its limits. So I switched to a ball head and haven't had a single regret. Just be sure to buy a *good* ball head otherwise you'll introduce additional problems. In other words, don't skimp on your ball head, buy the best one you can afford.
 
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snaphappy

Senior Member
Sounds like good advice Thanx Dave W.
I found a manfrotto 394 and it comes with a ball head but it's says its built in so sounds like I can't change it out??? So buying used 190 would give me a sturdy tripod with more flexibility for changing out the head right? Wish this town had a photograpy store and not just big box stores with staff who know nothing and don't stock anything!!
 
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eurotrash

Senior Member
I'm going to go cheap and suggest the Carbon Fibre Dolica ZX600B300 with ball head. LINK: Amazon.com: Dolica ZX600B300 Proline ZX Series 60-Inch Carbon Fiber Tripod with Ball Head: Camera & Photo

I got one for an absolute steal on Black Friday last year, but even at this price, it's the best for the money. It won't break the bank and I LOVE it. Absolutely stable, solid build quality, and it's light weight enough. Comes with it's own bag, too! I can't believe I was using such crappy tripods before this one got to me..Well, I didn't want to spend as much as high end solutions cost :) YMMV, of course..
 
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fotojack

Senior Member
Yeah, I'd go with the Manfrotto 190. Proven track record, stable, excellent construction, and for that price ($150) including a ball head?.......grab it!
 
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Drew Wat

Senior Member
B&H sell the two of those new for the combined price of $178.95. So 150 is not a screaming great deal but it is still a deal.
 
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Alex66

New member
I use a 3 way Manfrotto head, pretty sure you can point it upwards in one position, but I prefer the 3 way and am not too keen on using a ball head. If you could/can swing it look to see if you can find an 055 series for a good price, with a new head and spare plate I bought mine for less than you are going to pay for the 190. The 055's can take almost anything, I have had a 10x8 on there with no issues, its a buy for life purchase.
 
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snaphappy

Senior Member
I thought I should update this thread.

I did pick up the 190. Its an older version so has the screw tight legs. Its super solid and the 3 way head is much much easier to manipulate than the walmart special LOL but much heavier to carry along on hikes. While I was picking up the 190 I also picked up an older manfrotto monopod with a small ball head ($50) as well so it's in my van ready for a walk to try it out. I figured this would be easier to walk with and will give me a chance to try a ball head as well. While I was on a buying spree I also picked up a brand new B&W circular polarizer filter (for $25!) from the same guy. The filter didn't have great reviews online but I'm not a pro looking for every fault so enjoyed the results I got using it.

I really appreciate the help and suggestions given everyone
 
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