tripod for d300

[jbrunetti]

I'd like some suggestions on which triprod I should get for my camera. It needs to strong and lightweight. Also what type head for the tripod, I know there are different types which one is best (sturdy and easily releases). Price range from $150-$300

 

[talmy]

Strong, lightweight, and $150-300 (inexpensive) -- it's not going to happen. You can only have two of three (pick any two).

Read:

http://www.bythom.com/support.htm

 

[jbrunetti]

I'll check it out, thanks for the reply!

 

[S N Green]

Manfrotto 190 Pro B seems popular, also not badly built. Stronger I would recommend carbon Benro models, http://www.benro.com

or better yet Gitzo. Kind of strange that you bought expensive camera while trying to save on tripod. I have three tripods at home and frankly cheap ones are just not worth it. You will change camera but good tripod will last you VERY long time. Get good one once!

• Sergey

 

[jbrunetti]

Actually I checked out some sites that had tripods, they ranged in price from $150-$400. I just read the article about tripods and it does make sense to get something good now and not have to upgrade in the future. After looking at Gitzo tripods I'll probably get the GT3530 or the one below it. My largest lens now is the 18-200mm VR. I am a beginner in DSLR, I will eventually get a 300 to 400mm lens. I believe this model (gt3530) will handle this size lens. What about the type of head? Ball or other kind (not sure of the name)

 

[NGC1514]

Bought a Feisol Tournament CT-3342 carbon fiber 'pod and have been very happy with its weight and stability. Need a new head for it (using a Manfrotto 322RC2 pistol grip head and Bogen 486RC2) and nothing longer than the 300mm f/4 AF-S with a 1.4x converter.

After using old aluminum Bogens like the 3205, the weight on the Feisol is amazingly light!

 

[mlmusto]

get a ballhead, not a panning head.

check out reallyrightstuff (expensive but the website has good info/tutorials)
--
http://mlmusto.zenfolio.com/

 

[fsmith]

For ballheads my favorite sare Markins and RRS. Like the tripod, if you spend a little more it will last your lifetime.

Fran

 

[PHXAZCRAIG]

If you're in Phoenix, stop by and buy my old Bogen + 3-way pan head. Nice solid tripod, just replaced by expensive, light Gitzo 3530LSV with RRS BH-55 ballhead.

 

[jbrunetti]

Thanks to everyone's suggestions I'll be getting your exact setup!