Recommendations for a new camera tripod?

[DelawareJim]

My folks asked last night if I need any new equipment for my new camera. Other than the immediate thought of a macro lens, I need a good tripod. They asked for make and model and they'll order.

What do you recommend? It's primary uses will be for aquarium shots and wildflower shots in the field, so durability, stability, and weight are prime considerations.

Thanks.
Jim

[Ghazanfar Ghori]

Get the Macro lens kind!

[ingg]

Don't know why he'd suggest that.

[maddog10]

You want one that is more than sturdy enough to support the heaviest combination of camera and lens you plan on mounting to it. I also suggest that you get one that is a dark color (keeps it from showing up in all your aquarium shots - trust me). Carbon fiber legs would be strong and lightweight. Legs a nd mounts are often sold separately. You should really try the mount in person, some feel and work better than others. Bogen and Manfrotto are have good reputations. Not to scare you away, but a good tripod and ball head can cost from $250 to over $1000. They do tend to last a very long time though. I have about $150 in my set up (reflective silver legs )

[DelawareJim]

Right. I'm pretty sure I want a ball and socket mount.

I've been looking at the Bogen, Manfrotto, and Gitzo. I used to have a Bogen back in my Canon AE-1 film days, but I don't know how their quality is anymore. Generally you get what you pay for, but $1,000 plus for a Gitzo carbon Expedition is a bit off-putting too. While I wouldn't have problems packing it into the Alps for Gentian and Edelweiss pics, I don't plan on ascending K2 or Everest any time soon. And lately, I've started to hear some complaints about the Gitzo's.

Cheers.
Jim

[maddog10]

I tried about 6 different heads before I found one that I liked, in the store. After using it at home for a while I wish I had made a different choice. It is all about comfort when you are trying to adjust the head while looking through the viewfinder.