Tripod for Canon EOS 40D

[NJPixRich]

Hi all - I bought a canon eos 40D a short time ago and love it. I'm looking into getting a tripod for landscape pics, etc.
I realize its an investment and want to get the right one that is sturdy, easy to take around, etc. Any suggestions? Thanks.

[bob_r]

There are a lot of good tripods available and of course, the best ones can cost considerably more than lesser models. It would help to know your tripod budget.

Bob R

[NJPixRich]

I was at a photo course today and the instructor was using a carbonite model. Don't know the manufacturer but it was sturdy yet light. I'd like to keep less than $500 if possible.Thanks.

[bob_r]

I have an older model of legs similar to these ($350)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/5 ... l#features

and I use this ballhead because I wanted the abilty to handle extra weight in case I ever spring for a bigger telephoto ($245)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/3 ... _with.html

My son uses this ballhead and likes it a lot. It will support up to 11 lbs. and he uses it with a Canon 100-400 lens. ($110)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/3 ... lhead.html

There are better setups available, but many carry a very healthy price tag. Hope this helps.

Bob R

[dculp]

Hi,
In December I finally stepped up to a carbon fiber tripod. I did not have the $500 budget and found the following article about Adorama's latest offering: http://www.shutterbug.com/news/122007adorama/. I asked the forum, but no one had used one at that time. I decided to take the risk and purchased the $180 tripod and the $70 ballhead. This combination is rated to hold almost 18 pounds.

Since my last posting I have had the opportunity to use this combo in the field and found the quality to be good and the tripod is very solid. I shoot with a canon xsi and mate it up with a canon 100 - 400L IS lens and a 2x teleconverter.

Please bear in mind that I have not used the more expensive tripods. My comparison is limited to my old aluminum tripod from Ritz. Also, while I have found nothing to complain about, I have not had it for very long. It comes with a case that will allow you to pack it with the ballhead on. Its a tight fit, but it works.

Just food for thought. I know if I had a larger budget, I would have purchased a well known name brand. On the other hand, I am now that much closer to purchasing my next lens with the savings.