Lightweight Tripod for EM-1?

AD67 wrote:

Hi,

I'm looking to buy a Tripod to use with my EM-1 (with the 12-40 lens or the 75-300 at this stage) and would like to get some feedback as to which is the best way to go. Lightweight is important to me, plus I don't want to spend too much. I'm considering the following 3 Tripods:

1. The Slik Sprint Pro II

2. The Benro iTrip IT15

3. The Vanguard VEO 204AB

The Slik is the lightest and cheapest, has the greatest maximum height but the lowest load capacity, but surely sufficient for what I need?

The Vanguard and the Benro both seem similar. Both similarly priced, both pack away to a shorter length (less than 400mm which is handy) and both weigh around 300g more then the Slik (not sure how much the 300g would matter to me). Both have double the load capacity but a lower maximum height....

Any thoughts/suggestions would be appreciated including experiences with these particular tripods if you have used any of these.

thanks

Alan

This is my favorite backpacking / lightweight tripod: Vortex Summit SS

I use it glassing the southwest, wide angle astrophotography, and extended nature adventures. Very light, very compact. 1.8lbs. Sturdy until the very tip top height. I've had it backpacking, abused it, and it's never let me down.

On a personal note, I can't fathom a $200+ tripod just because there's carbon or a photography-centric badge or name in it. Carbon fiber and the brand has nothing to do with it's effectiveness for such a simplistic product, at least on the low end of the spectrum. It's not reducing road vibration like a road bike would, or saving weight because it's so small to begin with.  Aluminum is fine for it's construction unless you are demanding grams, in which case, I doubt you'll even find one lighter than the Summit SS.  Same goes for tripod heads or mounts, unless you are panning in video.

Link:

http://www.amazon.com/Vortex-Optics-ST-4-Summit-Tripod/dp/B007AJZOL4