CN writes:
<<Anybody got one of these or something similar? We recently went to the local
sculpture gardens <http://www.brookgreen.org/> and I can tell I'm going <<to be
spending a lot more time there with my camera. While there I spotted a fellow
photog who was carrying a Velbon VS-443D tripod. He said he <<loved it. I
handled it no more than picking it up briefly but I was intrigued by it. It's
light weight (4 lbs) and very versatile with its tilting, geared center
<<column and low-to-the-ground capability for macro. I have a 400 pound, very
versatile Manfrotto beast and a very light travel tripod that isn't versatile.
I <<could use something in between very much like this. The B&H reviews are
quite positive with only some minor reservations about the included ball <<head
and concern about the durability of the plastic leg locks.
Velbon VS-443D 4-Section Aluminum Versatile Tripod
<http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/818935-REG/Velbon_VS_443D_VS_443D_4_Section_Aluminum_Versatile.html>
<<Comments and suggestions appreciated.
Welllll, as in constant search for the perfect 'pod for travel, updated my
Velbon ultramax with this:
http://www.pentaxforums.com/reviews/sirui-t-025x-travel-tripod-review/introduction.html
It is very easy to lug and fold up to about 12" using the fold over trick for
the legs. There are always trade offs, but choices have clearly improved
the past two years. The removable Ctr column adds stability and one can hang
weight by attaching to the carabineer for my larger gear. I usually use my cam
bag or if too stuffed a hooked nylon bag that hold a few lenses or
rocks--called the "Happy Hooker"
I am married to A-S for now, else the choices widen. It is very good for
upright macro as well but not as cool as a cantilevering ctr column. I love
that feature in my much larger Gitzo Ex series. Moose and I had a travel
'pod feature contest on my kitchen counter with Trappist ales in hand. He has
this one, IIRC esp for use with MFT kits.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/769662-REG/Velbon_UT_45L_UT_45L_6_Section_Aluminum.html
It still folds up to be very compact with larger diam legs--I think more
stable. The write-ups don't mention it, but one can get very looow with it by
putting the ctr col in upside down--less of an issue these days with remote
control from phone or tablet. I still use my OM and FF Canyon and use A-S most
of the time so less optimal for me but YMMV.
3 legged Mike
--
_________________________________________________________________
Options: http://lists.thomasclausen.net/mailman/listinfo/olympus
Archives: http://lists.thomasclausen.net/mailman/private/olympus/
Themed Olympus Photo Exhibition: http://www.tope.nl/
|