I have realized the limitations of hand-held photography and have encountered a bunch of situations necessitating a tripod. I had to unexpectedly buy a car but have just taken care of that.
There is all kinds of stuff I wanted to buy during black friday/cypber week, but I have just caught the end of cyber week. You can find some deals for up to 50% off. Fortunately I am short and the majority of the tripods with the center column slightly to moderately extended will fit my height just fine (5'4"). I have to make a decision though - carbon vs aluminum. Aluminum is heavier, but less expensive. I have never used a tripod, but allowing aluminum as a choice opens up a lot more options. How important is this choice? Is there anyone that has bought a metal tripod and been sorry for their choice?
I suppose I should say that my budget right now is $200, and I am seeing choices that retail for $300 going for $150 (carbon). There are however twice as many to choose from if I include aluminum. I will be using it for landscape photography in the woods as well as some night time astrophotography. I guess I should add that it is cold here in Pennsylvania. Does anyone have any advice going forward?
I have always had a problem with choices- you should have seen me buying a car!!!
EDIT: I HAVE A NICE BALL HEAD ALREADY
Here are a couple I am looking at
Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AT
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1347227-REG/vanguard_alta_pro_2_263at.html/reviews
Benro TMA27A Series 2 Mach3 Aluminum Tripod
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1157831-REG/benro_tma27a_mach3_aluminum_series_2.html
Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263CT Carbon-Fiber Tripod
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1332553-REG/vanguard_alta_pro_2_263ct.html
Fotopro X-GO Max Tripod Kit with FPH-62Q Ball Head (Black)
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1431698-REG/fotopro_x_go_max_tripod_kit.html