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BallClapper
September, 2024

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Suggestions for my first tripod?

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MLB
Posts: 4462 - Karma: 298
So I just got my first Camera a few months ago ( a Pentax K200D.....a battle axe of a camera), and for many of the shots im taking Im just going to need tripod.

So i've started to get into night time shots, and using still life shots to pratice but would love to get some ski shots and take my DSLR into the backcountry.  Im looking at spending a total of 100$. Any sugestions of a good tripod/head combos?
May 20 2012 4:28PM
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wait.what
Posts: 1694 - Karma: 529
Hundred bucks isn't gonna get you too much... I'd save up until you have enough for something middle of the road
May 20 2012 4:40PM
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MLB
Posts: 4462 - Karma: 298
Actually....i've been looking through and 100 sounds about right.  Im not looking for a 1200 dollar Gitzo, or a full carbon fiber tripod. Im just looking for something thats sturdy, and works for 100.
May 20 2012 4:55PM
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LAME.
Posts: 5795 - Karma: 2,449
Actually, This is your first tripod, you clearly have no idea what you're talking about.
I found some old Manfrotto legs in the garbage, and got the 701hdv head, and its actually a worthy setup.
May 21 2012 9:50PM
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Balto
Posts: 25985 - Karma: 4,404
ya 100$ is going to get you shit. You are looking at $200 new for a simple good enough quality tripod/ballhead combo
May 21 2012 11:21PM
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Laurent.
Posts: 10056 - Karma: 25,313
Try to find a second hand tripod, like a Manfrotto 144B, I've had mine for ever and they sometimes cost a tad bit more then 100 bucks but I recently saw one go for under a 100 with a good head.

They are made almost exclusively out of thick aluminum and therefore they are strong, really strong albeit a bit heavy but that makes it more stable. You don't need the quick clasp or twist mechanism, the most important thing about a tripod is it's stability and the nut like locking mechanism works fine.

This is mine with the 141 RC head, excellent piece of equipment despite it's age.

Click for larger image

It extends beyond my length and if you turn the center column upside down you can let your camera touch the floor if you want too.



Don't get lured into buying a new cheap tripod, they are absolute shit.
May 28 2012 4:42AM
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