Tripod ??

rocketman122

Senior Member
I met an old time photographer a few years ago who said "if it's worth photographing then it's worth using a tripod". Granted, things have changed in the world of photography since his time, it's hard to argue his logic.

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very true. time has changed. I was shooting the venue, the cake, and the hall all with my tripod when I used film. the darkest places I shoot today, not a problem, bump up to iso 3200 and no issue. so little grain. the superia 800 had more grain than the D3 has at 6400. just get your exposure down pat and even a bit overexposed and youre set.
 

Blacktop

Senior Member
I use a tripod mainly for long exposure shots like flowing water and stuff. Also when I'm using a long focal lenght without VR.
 

run4fun

Senior Member
Not at the top of list but still looking. I don't want to break the bank because I'm sure how much I'll actually use it. Thanks for the suggestions
 

STM

Senior Member
I am not really sure what you are asking here. The percentages you will use freehand/monopod/tripod will depend on any number of factors like the kind of photography you do and what times of the day or night you like to shoot. For macro work they are almost a necessity Also, if you shoot a lot of moderately slow (ASA100) film like I do tripods may be necessary depending on light levels or depth of field requirements. Tripods can be cumbersome and heavy whereas monopods are much lighter though not as steady.

I use a heavy Bogan tripod for studio work but use a 30+ year old Slik U212 for everything outside. For its size and weight, the Slik is really hard to beat price wise. Mine has seen tons of use through the years and has never failed me.
 
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Phillydog1958

Senior Member
Not at the top of list but still looking. I don't want to break the bank because I'm sure how much I'll actually use it. Thanks for the suggestions


Just remember that your tripod is going to be responsible for holding your baby. Don't skimp on price. Good luck in your decision.
 

Steve Bell

Senior Member
I used to use a tripod 90% of the time with my previous camera, but since investing in a D7100 last year find it's now probably around 30%. VR makes a difference.

I own and use 5 tripods, an original Manfrotto 190, an 055P, a Benbo Mk 1, a Benro travel tripod and the last to be purchased, a Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB. They all have their uses.

The latest acquisition, the Vanguard, was bought as the centre column can be removed and positioned horizontally. Unlike the 055P where the column simply locks horizontally, the Vanguard column is adjustable up or down, very flexible. I allows me to shoot long exposures with the Samyang 8mm fisheye without getting the tripod legs in the bottom of the picture. For landscape photography I either use the Benbo or 055P. As a light weight walk about tripod the old Manfrotto 190 is ideal. For European travel the compact but very capable Benro. Additional to the need to hold the camera steady for long exposures, using a tripod allows you to be less rushed and think carefully re the best composition. I couldn't be without a tripod, although my wife wonders why I need more than one.
 

Horoscope Fish

Senior Member
Just remember that your tripod is going to be responsible for holding your baby. Don't skimp on price. Good luck in your decision.
I agree this is excellent advice. Of all the advice I was given when starting out in photography that I didn't listen to (and now wish I had) the advice about sucking it up and just buying a really good tripod and ball-head right from the start was the best ever; hands down. I've come to realize that $40 tripods are $40 for a reason and a really good tripod is a wonderful, wonderful thing that I never want to be without.

....
 

Phillydog1958

Senior Member
I agree this is excellent advice. Of all the advice I was given when starting out in photography that I didn't listen to (and now wish I had) the advice about sucking it up and just buying a really good tripod and ball-head right from the start was the best ever; hands down. I've come to realize that $40 tripods are $40 for a reason and a really good tripod is a wonderful, wonderful thing that I never want to be without.

....

It took me awhile to realize that, too. It's almost like buying a cheap, underrated carseat for your newborn baby, your most precious . . .
 
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John P

Senior Member
I see posts looking for less expensive tripods quite a bit.
Just over a year ago I had quite a bit of my camera gear stolen. My manfrotto tripod included.
My kids (three teenagers) purchased this tripod for me for my birthday. It was the best they could afford, and just wanted to cheer me up.
So I thought I would give you my experience with this less expensive tripod so far.

I used to be guilty of having the mindset that you get what you pay for in tripods. But with the Ravelli you get quite a bit for your money.
Mine has seen HARD use daily for just over a year. And is very much up to the task.

The legs are all aluminum. Even the flip locks for the legs are metal. The plastic feet are articulating, for use on uneven ground. The articulating feet unsnap to reveal integrated spikes for outdoor shooting. I really like the fact that the spikes are part of the legs, and not sold as an extra. These legs are every bit as sturdy as my old manfrotto 3021 set. And all connections are adjustable using the included allen wrenches. I have not had to make any adjustments on mine yet.

The Ravelli also comes with a ball head. Here again this cheap tripod shines. The only plastic on the entire head, is the levels. This head holds my D90 and 70-200 2.8 lens rock solid with no creep whatsoever. It pans very smoothly also. The other nice thing about this head. Is an allen head adjustment screw to take up slop in the ball joint over time. But as stated earlier. Mine has seen hard use daily for over a year. And no adjustments needed yet. But it is there when I need it. Ravelli also includes TWO quick release plates. Which is very nice, since I carry an extra body. Instead of switching lenses.

A year ago I would not have given a tripod like this a second look. But now realize that spending more for a tripod would have been a real waste of money.
It has met my needs very well. And shows no sign of letting me down. From what I have seen so far. This tripod set is the best bang for the buck that I have seen.

Here is a link to check it out.
Amazon.com: Ravelli APGL4 New Professional 70" Tripod with Adjustable Pistol Grip Head and Heavy Duty Carry Bag: Camera & Photo

Read more: http://nikonites.com/other-photography-equipment/6513-ravelli-apgl4-tripod-review.html#ixzz32YBUIDic







This is a review that I wrote a couple years ago. I have been using this tripod almost daily. It performs just as well as when new. My last tripod was a Manfrotto, and this tripod has worked every bit as well, and comes with the best ball head I have used. I really like the pistol grip ball head.
 

STM

Senior Member
I have a 30+ year old Slik U212 and it is an outstanding tripod but it does admittedly strain somewhat under the weight of my 12+ pound 600mm f/4 AIS Nikkor. I have a very sturdy Bogen studio tripod which handles it like a champ but it is somewhat cumbersome to take to the field, it is a good 7 pounds all by itself
 
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