A shot in the dark.

[Lancashire Lad]

Hi Kayleigh,

Regarding tripod for low level macro use:-

Not wanting to divert the thread. However, I tried answering your visitor message but it wouldn't work, so tried a PM instead - and that wouldn't work either.

The small tripod I use was originally purchased as a Manfrotto Modo 785SHB, but I modified it so that I could replace the head on it with one I had spare from a Velbon 600R - So what you see now is a bit of a one-off.
As far as I'm aware, the 785SHB, and the very similar 785B are no longer available from Manfrotto.

If you are wanting something primarily for low level fungi shots, then something like the Velbon Ultra Luxi M might do the job. - I haven't used one myself, but I did consider buying that model before putting my old Velbon head onto the 785SHB legs,

The Luxi M is reasonably light and compact, and should easily support a normal DSLR with a macr lens. (They normally sell at about £100.00, but Morris photo has an offer on at the minute £60.00 plus p&p)

NB- I've never bought anything from Morris photo, so make sure that the tripod would be ok for what you want it for, and that you would be happy dealing with Morris Photo if you do actually consider buying one of these.

(But check alternatives models and suppliers too - there are a few reasonable small, low level tripods about).

Regards
Mike.

[Kayleigh]

Originally Posted by Lancashire Lad

Hi Kayleigh,

Regarding tripod for low level macro use:-

Not wanting to divert the thread. However, I tried answering your visitor message but it wouldn't work, so tried a PM instead - and that wouldn't work either.

The small tripod I use was originally purchased as a Manfrotto Modo 785SHB, but I modified it so that I could replace the head on it with one I had spare from a Velbon 600R - So what you see now is a bit of a one-off.
As far as I'm aware, the 785SHB, and the very similar 785B are no longer available from Manfrotto.

If you are wanting something primarily for low level fungi shots, then something like the Velbon Ultra Luxi M might do the job. - I haven't used one myself, but I did consider buying that model before putting my old Velbon head onto the 785SHB legs,

The Luxi M is reasonably light and compact, and should easily support a normal DSLR with a macr lens. (They normally sell at about £100.00, but Morris photo has an offer on at the minute £60.00 plus p&p)

NB- I've never bought anything from Morris photo, so make sure that the tripod would be ok for what you want it for, and that you would be happy dealing with Morris Photo if you do actually consider buying one of these.

(But check alternatives models and suppliers too - there are a few reasonable small, low level tripods about).

Regards
Mike.

Cheers Mike..
I would really need to go to a shop as I am not confident to get one off the net as I need to see and feel it so I will have a look around now I know what it is..

[Geoff F]

I use the Velbon Luxi L tripod for occasional lightweight easy carry use.

Admittedly not a patch on my Manfrotto but it folds up to around 15 ins and fits inside my backpack which is fine for occasional use and far more convenient than lugging around a large heavy tripod which I might not require.

However, when the insect season comes around again it will be back to the Manfrotto.

The Luxi L has a 2 piece centre column which unscrews into separate sections so you can easily get really low. In fact I now only use the smaller section.

I regularly use this tripod with my 40D and 150-500 lens without problems. Although I wouldn't guarantee perfect long exposures in windy conditions.

Also on the downside, the leg sections lock together by rotating a knob at the lower section which can be a little stiff to operate, and to fully tighten, so it does require a fairly strong grip. And it can be a bit of a stretch to tighten when extended.

And with regard to Morris Photo. That is where I purchased my Velbon, plus a few other items. There was a delay in dispatch apparently caused by one item being out of stock and the packing department not notifying the invoice dept.

However, when I contacted them they quickly identified the problem, offered me an alternative item, which was in stock, and I received my package the next day. I would use them again.

ps. For low work in confined spaces, I have the Velbon CX Mini which although being just a cheap plastic item is very easy to carry around and reasonably stable if you don't use at full stretch.

[Kayleigh]

Thank you for the info I will have a look and play in the "camera toy shop"
This way I can see how low it gets I will take something to photograph too..
The one I have goes quite low so I think I will have a play with this atm it feels awkward and unnatural so I need to get used to using a tripod in all situations.