Tripod Article

Things have been quiet here so I thought I'd get some discussion going.

B&H has an interesting article about tripods here (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/find/newsLetter/Tripod-Specials.jsp). In addition to the standard legs and heads I was intrigued by the foldable Benro tripods. Every so often someone here is looking for a tripod that is "packable". These Benro legs look like they might be good for traveling or carying gear into the field.

There's also the popular Slik and Sunpak unit described here as well.

Good luck.

Dennis

Dennis,

Took your advice and perused the articles on tripods. I like the Benro, but the description doesn't say anything about the BH-00 Ballhead. Do you know if it is plastic? Do you suppose it moves smoothly? I have had experience with a cheap ballhead and really want smooth panning with my camcorder. And I want to travel lightly.

I am also looking at the Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 785B Modo Maxi Tripod with Pistol Grip. Would you know if they are in a similar category please? It's reviews seem to laud the tripod but not the head so much.

Dennis,

Took your advice and perused the articles on tripods. I like the Benro, but the description doesn't say anything about the BH-00 Ballhead. Do you know if it is plastic? Do you suppose it moves smoothly? I have had experience with a cheap ballhead and really want smooth panning with my camcorder. And I want to travel lightly.

Sorry, I don't know about the Benro or its ballhead. I'm a Bogen/Manfrotto user myself.

I am also looking at the Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 785B Modo Maxi Tripod with Pistol Grip. Would you know if they are in a similar category please? It's reviews seem to laud the tripod but not the head so much.
I haven't seen any reviews so I can't say. But if that's the case, go with the 785B and get a different head. Bogen makes a ton of them and there's sure to be one that meets you needs. Best bet is to go try one out somewhere before buying it that's possible.

Good luck.

Dennis