Travel tripod with low level capability

[LauraJ23]

Currently using an original manfrotto befree, head is kind of ok but it doesn't really suit my 7d2.

I would like something similar, but with a better low level capability, the centre column is to long to get properly low down. So either a splitable centre column, or one with an adaptor to put the head on without the column.

Any recommendations?

Thanks in advance

 

[redhed17]

I have a Manfrotto 190 Go whose legs can splay to almost 90 degrees. The central column doesn't split but it can be pulled up and then turned horizontal. You can get very low. Something to consider.

 

[gad-westy]

Currently using an original manfrotto befree, head is kind of ok but it doesn't really suit my 7d2.

I would like something similar, but with a better low level capability, the centre column is to long to get properly low down. So either a splitable centre column, or one with an adaptor to put the head on without the column.

Any recommendations?

Thanks in advance

3LT tripods usually allow for no centre column. I'm not sure how the current ones work but of the two 3LT tripods I have, one came with a short stub to replace the centre column, the other (I think this is now standard), allows the top plate to be attached directly to the tripod with not no centre column at all. Works well but if you really want to get low, inverting the centre column and hanging the camera upside down is an option on many tripods. I've got be honest, I find this a massive faff (although probably fine on something with a tilting touch screen) but it may work for occasional use.

 

[Nod]

Use something like a Pod for very low stuff and you BeFree for "normal" use.

 

[woof woof]

The inability of centre column through the legs designs to allow low positioning drove me to Benbo but they're not really lightweight travel tripods. I don't know if there are any Benbo like travel tripods but it may well be worth looking for one of the Benbo / Uniloc bent bolt type design as they allow great positioning flexibility.

 

[bumper]

I've just purchased a Vanguard veo 235ab. It's tiny and fits inside my bag has a removable centre column and has the short adapter to replace the column, plus has the head. I think it's arca compatible too.

It was just over £50 on sale and it holds my 80d with a grip and a 70-200mm at a push. They're currently just over £60 on amazon.

It's not as stable as my manfrotto 055 but it weighs less and does the job if the winds aren't 30mph+. It would be great for a body with a small zoom or prime.

 

[LauraJ23]

I have a Manfrotto 190 Go whose legs can splay to almost 90 degrees. The central column doesn't split but it can be pulled up and then turned horizontal. You can get very low. Something to consider.

Thank you, I saw the 190's quite a while ago, something to consider,

3LT tripods usually allow for no centre column. I'm not sure how the current ones work but of the two 3LT tripods I have, one came with a short stub to replace the centre column, the other (I think this is now standard), allows the top plate to be attached directly to the tripod with not no centre column at all. Works well but if you really want to get low, inverting the centre column and hanging the camera upside down is an option on many tripods. I've got be honest, I find this a massive faff (although probably fine on something with a tilting touch screen) but it may work for occasional use.

Thanks Graham, i think I would find it a faff also, the head would have to be really good to control the movment, especially with my sigma 105 macro due to its weight. I shall have a browse of the 3lt's to see whats on offer.

Use something like a Pod for very low stuff and you BeFree for "normal" use.

Not seen those before, looks fairly useful, thank you.

The inability of centre column through the legs designs to allow low positioning drove me to Benbo but they're not really lightweight travel tripods. I don't know if there are any Benbo like travel tripods but it may well be worth looking for one of the Benbo / Uniloc bent bolt type design as they allow great positioning flexibility.

Ah benbo, my dad used to have a trekker quite a while ago, couldn't stand the thing! I just couldn't get on with it.

I've just purchased a Vanguard veo 235ab. It's tiny and fits inside my bag has a removable centre column and has the short adapter to replace the column, plus has the head. I think it's arca compatible too.

It was just over £50 on sale and it holds my 80d with a grip and a 70-200mm at a push. They're currently just over £60 on amazon.

It's not as stable as my manfrotto 055 but it weighs less and does the job if the winds aren't 30mph+. It would be great for a body with a small zoom or prime.

Got that for a good price then! I shall take a look. Thanks David.

 

[Dangermouse]

Also take a look at Slik sprint pro II as they really are very light, hold a lot of weight and do everything you need from a tripod, don't be fooled by them being a travel tripod, they are still full size when fully extended too.