Tripod Suggestions

[rossyg]

Hello everyone!

I need to buy a tripod but my head is swimming after doing some online research. My current gear consists of:

Nikon D300
18-200mm VR
Macro 105 (this will be my Christmas present to myself!)
SB600 Flash

At some point I want to invest in a wider angle lens as well as 300mm and TC(gotta get those birds...)

Anyhow, what are you guys using? I would prefer something light as most trips tend to include hiking.

Looking forward to your responses.

[rpk717]

What tripod head are you using? Do you need a suggestion for a head and legs or just the legs?

[rossyg]

Both - forgot about the ballhead.

[rpk717]

Sorry, I should have asked one more question, what's your budget?

For your current equipment and your mention that you want something lightweight for hiking I think the best ballhead for you would be the Kirk BH-3 for $255. I have one myself and use it with good results with all of my lenses except the 500mm. It only weighs 19 ounces and is made of 6061-T aircraft aluminum. Very well made ballhead.

For the tripod legs there are literally hundreds to choose from. My choice of manufacturers is limited, I have two Gitzo leg sets. One from many years ago made of aluminum [G1320] currently going for $380 and the carbon fiber model [1325] which are no longer being sold. The current improved versions go from $480 to $750 depending on which one you get.

There is a used Gitzo 1325 on for sale on the CNPA website for $450, which is a good deal. http://www.cnpa.org/cnpabb/showthread.php?t=96.

There are other brands of tripod legs that are more affordable like Bogen, Velbon, etc. but I don't have experience with them. Hunt's or B&H are good to order from. The Kirk ballhead is available on the Kirk website.

I hope this helps, a good tripod is one of your most important photo accessories. For me it was one of those steps that help boost me to a new level. Going from print film to slide film, using a pro-level camera body, moving to digital cameras were some of the others.

One last thing, I'm a firm believer in getting the best you can afford. If you go cheap now you will likely be dissatisfied a few years down the road and will end up buying the one you should have bought this time

[htony]

I am not a professional photographer but after being confused by all the tripod internet details, I purchased this one based on customer feedback.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/131427-REG/Slik_615_315_700DX_Pro_Tripod.html

I am very pleased with it so far. Its less expensive than the awesome gitzo's and its built like a tank. I like the two tensioning handels, they seem to work better for me. I have been able to pan with a 80 400mm zoom lens and get some neat waterfowl shots.

I also purchased and additional quick detach plate and thats pretty smooth too.
its worth a look