Is this tripod just too big?

[1963bus]

I purchased a Bogen [Manfrotto] Tripod at a charity sale firstly because it looked really sturdy and secondly, I know very little so thought it'll do.

The tripod is a Bogen Professional 3236 and is fitted with a Manfrotto 3063 fluid head.

Is this tripod just too big to practically use with a camera/bigma? it seemed to look bigger when I got it home [I guess because I can now compare it with my old tripod].
I own a monopod for when I'm strolling but there are a few places where we are still for a while and like setting a tripod up.

What exactly is a fluid head and is it only any good for video camera's?

Lastly should I sell it on and get something else more suitable? bearing in mind this is a wonderfully solid stable platform for your camera [and really heavy].

Advice appreciated as always

Brian.

[squishy]

you could always just not fully extend the legs. as long as it's sturdy and you can carry it, I don't see how the height could be much of a problem.

[NJP87]

Originally Posted by 1963bus

Lastly should I sell it on and get something else more suitable? bearing in mind this is a wonderfully solid stable platform for your camera [and really heavy].

Advice appreciated as always

Brian.

There's your answer, a stable tripod is what you want, as for the height only extend the legs to the required height

Remember heavy = stability and a bad back

[1963bus]

Hi ya Squishy [yep I'm Connors dad]

Think I've decided on keeping it, the things just so well made

I've had the bigma on it and there's no movement or wobble of any description, actions really smooth panning in all directions and I only need two sections of the legs out [there's three] to be at a really comfortable working height and I'm 6'-4".

I've found out that Manfrotto do a carrying strap for it that just clips on so that should make things a little easier when out, I always have the monopod when I know I'll be constantly on the move.

Cheers for your reply

P.S. Connors just bought himself a D40x, he's now saving for lenses

[1963bus]

Originally Posted by NJP87

There's your answer, a stable tripod is what you want, as for the height only extend the legs to the required height

Remember heavy = stability and a bad back

Hi and thanks for replying

Going to give it a go as I doubt I'll ever own a more stable tripod, looks like a bad backs on the way

[Mike Jackson]

Probably be worth your while flogging the fluid head and getting a smaller head for it.

[momji1971]

Manfrotto do a gimbal type head for about £90. Think its on their site under monopods.

It would be a perfect addition to the tripod and brill for your bigma. But, it will add to the weight.

regards.
Stu.

[1963bus]

Cheers guys, never thought of changing the head

The fluid head has rather a slow even stiff action no matter how you slacken everything off, as I've never owned one before wasn't sure if this is how they work or this ones a bit seized through lack of use

I'd appreciate it if someone could recommend a manfrotto model number for a suitable head please, afraid the replacement will have to be an ebay purchase

Cheers all

Brian.

[BillyPilgrim]

Originally Posted by 1963bus

I'd appreciate it if someone could recommend a manfrotto model number for a suitable head please, afraid the replacement will have to be an ebay purchase

Cheers all

Brian.

The Manfrotto head mentioned above is the 393 Long Lens Bracket and it costs £107 from WEX.

I've used one for 18 months now and would recommend it. Solid, well made and very easy to operate.

There's a decent mini-review here:-

Manfrotto 393 Gimbal head  (1) - Nikonians Product Review

[1963bus]

Hi Billy

Spent the last hour searching/researching the manfrotto 393 head, I gotta have one
Cheapest I've found so far is £107.00 but I'm still searching

Thanks for the recommendation.

Brian