Camera Labs

Hello forum,
I've been looking for a decent tripod around $200 Canadian legs and head. There're just so many combination and choices. So I've come asking for help.

I'd like a tripod that's lightweight as well as having good build quality. Something that I'd enjoy using, being able to take with me and not break the bank.
Thanks!
David

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Simply shoot.

Nikon D90 | Nikon FE | 50mm 1.8G | 18-105mm | SB-600 | Manfrotto 190XDB

Next stop: Carl Zeiss 35mm

You may be able to Squeeze a Manfrotto/Bogen into your budget. You can get the 190 legs and a 494RC2 ball head for 210 USD or with conversion 220ish CAD.

But if you're patient enough I'd save a bit more and get the 055 legs and a 496rc2 Ball head. Thats what I did and I wouldn't ever want a smaller tripod for my DSLR. Also carbon fiber is quite nice but not necessary.

Most tripods under this price range I wouldn't trust holding my DSLR.

Its a big investment but totally worth it.

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Canon 40D + 70-200mm f/2.8L IS + 50mm f/1.8
Manfrotto 055CX3 + 496RC2
www.thomaslowe.com

Hey David,

I had a similar budget and was also on the market for a tripod for my D90. Of course, you will get many different opinions and I by no means disagree with Tomis about the Manfrotto 055. However, I would say your decision should heavily depend on how you intend to use the tripod.

In my case, the 055 was simply too heavy and unruly. Carbon was right out because it is too expensive. My tripod will spend a lot of time in a suitcase and I will often bring it with me even when I am not necessarily going on an all-day shoot. After talking to some guys at Vistek, I ended up with a Benro travel tripod. So far, it has been fantastic. It provides ample stability, it is small (folds to about 14"), lightweight (3.3 lbs) and it did not break the bank ($199 for legs, head and carrying case).

Just something to consider!

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Nikon D90|18-105 mm|50mm f/1.8