Opinions on tripod set

daz.wallace

daz.wallace

daz.wallace

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Just wanted peoples opinions on the following manfrotto tripod and head set up:

NEW - 055CL Christmas Tripod Kit
055CL Classic Chrome Tripod, 804RC2 3-Way Head & 102 Carry Strap for £149

or is it worth spending the extra for the pro version for the horizontal bar and getting a different head? If so, what head would be recommended?

Many thanks in advance :)
 
I've just ordered the 055PROB with with 488RC4 midi ball head for £166.95.

Personally I thought it was worth the extra 20 quid or so for the removable centre column. I think heads are personal preference. I played with a 3 way head and a ball head and went with the ball head, it seemed sturdier to me. I dont get a bag with mine (although I've seen upbranded ones for £10).

I think the 322RC2 Grip Action Ball Head looks really good too, I saw it in action last night :cool: Might upgrade to that one day :)
 
The removable centre column is definitely worth the extra if you're looking to do anything other than landscapes - I use it all the time for table top shots, macros etc where you need to get the camera closer to the subject.

The 322RC2 is nice, I use one myself, the only crticism I have is that you need to be careful when releasing the grip as the camera can droop a little as you let go. It's not that big a deal but it can be a pain getting things set up right.
 
Thanks for the replies, I would use the removable column for tabletop shots so will probably get that one. I have seen the 055PROB for £99 is this a good price?

The other question is do I go for a 3 way head or a ball head, which is more versatile?

Thanks again :)
 
Get Optech Tripod straps if you can, they are £18 but it makes the tripod much easier to carry. The padding on them are great.
 
I think 3 way heads give more accuracy for positioning the camera as they are geared but a ball head, especially a grip type like the 322 or 222 (which I have), are much quicker to use and probably have a greater range of movement.

Removable column is a real must. I use it a lot too for macro shots. Also look for one where the legs can be independantly swung out.

Not sure whether £99 is good or not - I got my tripod and head 2nd hand off a certain auction site ;)

Andrew
 
Thanks once again for the replies :)

morgan said:
yep thumbs up here for the pro version...but if you can try to get the black version
Click to expand...


The one I have seen for £99 is the black one

Raymond Lin said:
et Optech Tripod straps if you can, they are £18 but it makes the tripod much easier to carry. The padding on them are great.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the tip, had a quick look at them and they look good, if I cant get a bag cheaper then I will get these straps :)

Still undecided about the head, from what I can gather, the ball heads seem to hold more weight, which by the time I have the 400D, battery grip and telephoto lens on and /or flash gun the weight quickly mounts up.

I will look more into ball and 3 way heads
 
If you've got a shop near you it would be good to go in and have a play with them. I thought I wanted a 3 way untill I had a go on the 488RC4.
 
Yeah I've got the 488RC4 head as well and it's great! Can't really fault it to be honest
 
right, I have narrowed my choices down to either the 488RC4 or the 322RC2, now I just have to find the time to get down to my nearest camera shop to try the 2 of them out.

Has anyone tried them both and if so, what are your opinions/which did you go for?

Many thanks again :)
 
Well I took the plunge and ordered the 055Pro in black and the 488RC4 to go with it. The main reason for choosing the 488 over the 322 was the 488 was rated to be able to support more weight. Though I dont have any heavy lenses at the moment my next step is to get the 100-400L as soon as I find the necessary money (probably around Easter by the time I save up for it :( )

Thanks everyone for the advice given :)
 
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