Would this be OK ?....(tripod help)

Hi all,
Looking at images on this site over the past couple of weeks has inspired me to improve some of my equipment (not to mention my skills!).
I have a limited budget, and the huge amount of information on, and choice of tripods is overwhelming. For the sake of choosing SOMETHING!
I'm thinking of a Manfrotto 055XWNB with a 322RC2 head, I know it'll leave my cheap throw away for dead. Wondering if anyone has any negatives or positives about such a purchase ( $302 B&H).
Thanks in advance to anyone who offers an opinion.

I have used a Manfrotto 055 series aluminum tripod for almost 5 years. It is sturdy enough for most camera setups, maybe except big telephoto lenses (300/2.8 and larger). The main problem with the 055 tripods is that they are relatively heavy. If you mostly use lightweight gear like a mid-range DSLR with a standard zoom lens, the cheaper and lighter 190 series Manfrottos may be enough for your needs.

Thanks Ott, I should have stated I'm presently using a D70 and my biggest lens is an 80-400VR which weighs 1360 grams or 48oz. I will be hiking with it sometimes. I'm quite tall and noticed the 055 has more height than the 190 series.

I would check on Ebay as you can get some real bargains there on tripod legs from time to time.

Also run a search on here Neale - it can be a pain to parse through the results, but there are lots of tripod discussions regarding aluminum vs. carbon fiber, heads, leg height, etc.

I've used this same combination for years and am very happy with it. Yes, the 055 is heavy but to go lighter with the same physical size will cost you more because that mans carbon fibre. The 322 RC is an excellent head and will have no trouble supporting the 80 400. The 322 RC is a smooth working head, is easy to set up for the weight of the camera and lens and is very easy to adjust by minute amounts when working on close up. You will not go wrong with this combination.....

EBay for sure. Here's something else. I have the Nikon 80-400mm VR and have used it for years. The first thing I did was replace the supplied tripod collar with one from Kirk. There was a noticeable improvement in image sharpness. It's an Arca Swiss type foot though. When using the lens on a tripod, what you could try is NOT tightening down the head. Let it be just a little loose. You can then use the VR mode. Don't use VR if the head is tightened down solid.

http://www.kirkphoto.com/lenscollars.html


Kent in SD

Hi Neale,
I recently bought the 055XPROB tripod with a 488RC2 ball head. I think maybe the only difference is the 322RC2 may be a slightly lighter duty head. You have made a good choice the legs are great and very very adjustable. Your able to place the camera an inch from the ground or above your head, (my head anyway). I'm 5'10" and with the tripod in it's normal upright position without center column extended I have just stretch my neck oh so slightly to the view finder, which I like.
Just a tip: I would recommend NOT to sacrifice weight for stability. I hike with this unit miles thru the flint hills of Kansas and am very glad that when I place my camera on it, I have it. Enjoy!

Brad

Check out Feisol tripods. They now have a U.S. distributor, Kerry Thalman.

http://www.largeformatphotography.info/forum/showthread.php?t=33714&highlight=feisol

I've had 1 for about a year(3401) and I love it!

Thanks everyone, for your helpful insights. ND