Quote:
Originally Posted by mbanstendig  I am looking for a truly lightweight, but stable tripod and head to hold a large, CANON EOS 1Ds Mk II and 100-400mm Lens. |
Mark, I use a Carbon One (the 441 model with just 3 leg sections) from Manfrotto and it is mated with their excellent 410 junior geared head. It is very stable, and relatively lightweight. The head also has a quick release on each of the three adjustment knobs.
The QR plate is large enough to have a lot of stability and small enough to have one fitted to each body permanently because it does not adversely affect the hand-holding of Canon 1D2 bodies. (similar size and weight to the 1Ds 2 bodies and if you are using the tripod collar on the lens, it will be very well balanced)
Initially, I thought the knobs were too small and too hard to turn but having used this combination for a couple of years now, I can see that it was partly learning curve and partly new and unfamiliar kit. I have previously used ball heads, which are undoubtedly faster in use but I was after a degree of precision for positioning that geared heads seem to do really well.
The tripod legs have been faultless in terms of the leg locks in cold/hot/wet and dry climates. With several possible leg angles, the tripod head can get within a few inches of the ground. The centre stem can be removed and repositioned horizontally as well. My view is that this particular tripod offers good value for both its quality of manufacture and its range of functionality. YMMV.
Image URLs follow...
Google Image Result for http://www.luminous-landscape.com/images/carbon4.jpg http://www.thaidphoto.com/forums/att...d=121349&stc=1
Regards,
Jeff
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