Nikon SLR Cameras

What would be a good tripod that can support my lens and my camera?

Chris
07.07.2015
Chris

OK I'm looking for a good tripod that can support my Nikon d3200 and my Sigma 150-500mm(i gave a pic of what the lens looks like). Thanks! What would be a good tripod that can support my lens and my camera - 1

Guest
07.07.2015
Guest

Weight of lens 1780g
Weight of camera 455g
Combined weight 2235g / 2.25kg / 5 lbs

So you need need to buy a tripod that is rated strong enough to take more than that weight.

Frank
07.07.2015
Frank

Tripods are one of those items that is often skimped on. For most users, just getting one that can the weight of the gear is good enough. However, you have the need for additional stability due to the strength of the Sigma 150-500mm lens. I would look at Manfrotto, Gitzo, Indurro and Really Right Stuff tripods. Personally, I prefer the 3-section legs vs 4-sections as it's quicker to setup and take down. Only go with a 4-section tripod if you need something that folds down to a very short length (for air travel, for example).

I would recommend that you disregard the actual weight capacities of the tripods because they're often "optimistic" specifications. Being able to keep a 5lbs setup steady with a focal length of only, say 85mm is one thing. Keeping a 5 lbs setup with 500mm (750mm with 1.5x crop factor) is something entirely different. You're going to want to get a tripod that can support as much weight as you can afford. Yes, it'll be heavier, but you need that extra weight to keep things steady at 750mm. Add in windy conditions, having a tripod that has a little bit of extra weight and load capacity is essential. However, using a carabiner to hang your bag from the bottom of the center post is a great way to add a good deal of stability to an otherwise light-weight tripod. Some go so far as to use sandbags or a nylon bag filled with rocks.

The other thing to consider is the length of the tripod. How tall do you need it? Outdoor photographers like the taller tripods for when shooting on incline.

As for the materials, I'd prefer a carbon fiber to aluminum because it's the best at dampening vibrations. I currently use an aluminum Manfrotto 3021 tripod (rated at 19lbs) and it's fine for my setup with a body that weighs around 3.5 pounds. But my strongest lens is only 200mm.

The head is your next consideration. I personally like the ballhead designs from Acra-Swiss (I have a Z1) and those from Really Right Stuff. I prefer the flip-lock quick release styled shoe (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1029548-REG/arca_swiss_801215_monoball_p0_with_fliplock.html) as opposed the screw clamp type (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1013734-REG/arca_swiss_801_214_monoball_po_ballhead_with.html) I bought my A/S Z1 with the screw clamp and hate it because there's no safety pin to prevent the camera from sliding off the head. I've had my 645D nearly fall to the ground a few times already.

Bernd
07.07.2015
Bernd

Manfrotto, Gitzo and Tiltall. Heavy is better. Try craigslist.