Any advice about Manfrotto 3221WN tripod and322RC2 ballhead

[bvanzant]

I am considering buying a Manfrotto 3221wn tripod along with a Manfrotto 322rc2 trigger release ball head. Is there anyone that can offer a suggestion as to their performance. I like to shoot Macro's, wildlife, panoramic's, and general nature photos. Anything would be welcomed.

Brian.

[Bonish Photo]

I have this exact set up and love it!!

The trigger release ball head is very easy to use and will actually hold my Canon 1D with a 28-300L lens without a hint of movement.

I also use the Manfrotto 685B Monopod and with love that even more. It really helps for sports shots and when you dont need the full support of the 3 legs, but just need a little extra support.

Dont waste your money on the much more expensive Manfrotto Carbon Fiber tripod. I had originally went in thinking that was the one I was going to purchase, but when I held them both side by side, they were only a few ounces difference. For the $200 difference in price, I can work out a bit and carry around a few more LBS

Good luck

Pat
www.everymilesamemory.com

[bob_r]

I have the same tripod, but have a Manfrotto 468MGRC2 head. I'm very fond of this head, but I bought my son the trigger release and he really likes it.

The thing I like about the 468MGRC2 Head, is that one you set the tension for your camera and lens, you don't have to release anything while shooting. You just move it where you want it and it stays there. Of course, it is kind of pricey.

Bob R

[bvanzant]

Thanks Pat and Bob r. I really appreciate the advice. I believe that pretty much made up my mind. I have a Canon XTi and just a sigma 55-200 lens for now. I was concerned about being able to upgrade to larger lenes. You answered my question about that. Bob r, I will take a look at that head and see just how pricy it is. It may be out of my range for now...who knows.
Do either of you do any Macro ? if so, how does the tripod perform with that ?

[bob_r]

The tripod and ball head both work well shooting macros, but if that's going to be something you'll shoot a lot, I'd check with our resident macro master, Dalantech. His macros are the best I've seen.

I also use a cheapo monopod for macros too. Sometimes the insects are just so active that it's easier to shoot with a monopod and a zoom lens with closeup tubes and teleconverters than it is with a macro lens.

The weight will not be an issue unless you get a really big lens. The tripod can handle 13 pounds and the Manfrotto 468MGRC2 can handle 22 pounds. The trigger release supports 11 pounds. I shoot with a Canon 100-400 and have had as many as 3 teleconverters on with it (just testing - the results were not real impressive). The 468 list for $314 at Adorama, in case you're interested, and the trigger release is around $120.

Bob R

[elw9514]

I actually had the Manfrotto 322rc2 and recently sold it. There was nothing wrong with it, I think that it was just too different from using a ball head for me.

My two cents,

Emmett