Reader's Comments - Index of - Free

Tripods
the best possible photography, a tripod should be utilized to the maximum extent
possible. If you are a world traveler, you need to factor in portability into the
equation,--buying a tripod that will fit within your usual carryon or checked
luggage. I selected a carbon-fiber model for portability and to encourage me to
always take it along. I also went with a 4-section model because it closes up
smaller than most 3-section models. Is it any less stable? I really haven't found it to
be. Feel free to do some checks yourself at your nearby tripod shop. I leave you
with two thoughts to consider,--TRY to take your tripod with you as much as
possible and ensure that it's something that you won't feel burdened carrying
around. Sometimes that costs a little more, but when you amortize that cost out
over 20-30 years, it's a wash.
-- Dan Lindsay, December 13, 2002
Phillip, You write some great things and have helped my photography immensely.
However, I must add one thing. Your only comment about Cullmann was their tiny
tripods, which are not good. You didn't mention about their excellent full-size
tripods. I have a Titan 200 which (with column extended) is taller than I am and
immensely sturdy. It can hold a reputed 154 pounds! The leg locks are excellent
and the legs are very good for field use (being well sealed). Also, I must say, that
when locked, the center column is so sturdy that I would use it, even at the full
extension.
-- Jason Antman, February 23, 2003
Shooting all 3 formats (35/120/4x5), I have come to love the Gitzo 1228CF with
the Acratech head because it is easy to travel with when space and weight are a
consideration. It is extremely light and quick to work with and can fit in a standard
carry-on with the head off. If you do not extend the legs all the way and hang a bag
from the hook on the center column stability can be dramatically increased; I've
used it this way for LF (flimsy but tolerable, the Acratech is very stiff despite its
light weight). The Arca B1 is fantastic and for MF/4x5 or long lenses in 35mm
cannot be beat; I use it with a Gitzo 1341 which is a very stable platform for those
near the car moments, probably because the mass is so large, an advantage lost with
the carbon tripods. Used Linhof twin shank tripods can sometimes be found
cheaply; having tried one of these and also a G410 I feel there are declining
marginal returns on the "bigger and heavier is better" theory of tripods unless
perhaps you have an assistant.
The Bogen tripods are fantastic value and utility, especially the 3001 and 3221.
Bogen has fixed the leg locks on the latter so that they are more reliable. (BTW I
have never had any trouble with the Gitzo leg locks, I just open them from bottom
to top and close from top to bottom; this way the different diameters of the locking
http://www.photo.net/equipment/tripods/philg (49 of 53)7/3/2005 2:21:13 AM