I'm not familiar with the "55NAT" model tripod. I have the 3444D legs
(4 section CF, magnesium clamps, without the horizontal column holder
apparatus) and find them very good for field use: light, fast,
sturdy. The later models have a better arrangement for splitting the
column to enable low angle shots, so I've been thinking of upgrading.
Regards heads, I've had the Manfrotto 3265 and now the Manfrotto
322RC2 Grip Action ballhead. Both are great field heads ... fast and
flexible positioning ... although they're a little limited in load
carrying capacity and precision. I also have a Kirk Photo BH-1
ballhead, fitted with a Really Right Stuff lever action QR clamp,
which is much heavier duty, very precise but a little slower in use.
There is a tradeoff between price, weight, speed, flexibility and
sturdiness. If you want one tripod to do it all, and are willing to
accept a little compromise, I'd suggest a set of Giottos MT-9160 3-
Section legs (very sturdy, capable of handling up to a 22lb load) and
your choice of ballhead suitable for the weight of the equipment you
want to use. Ballheads are remarkably subtle, it pays to hunt around
and test a couple if you can manage to. I worked with the Acratech,
Kirk, Arca-Swiss and Manfrotto ballheads before deciding on the two I
have.
Godfrey
On Jan 5, 2006, at 8:11 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
The 222 Grip Action Ball Head (pistol grip style)
The 55NAT tripod.
I don't really have a tripod. I have a Manfrotto 28 (similar to the
55) that i borrow from
work (the one Bill
used at GFM this past summer)with pan head, and would like to get
my own.
Any comments on the above or feel free to stear me into a good
direction.
Uses would be for the 6x7 (10%) and for the nature weekend this
June, plus macro.
Can 1 tripod do all three or should i look at a general tripods and
one for macro.
Head ideas, espesially for macro would be welcome
Dave
