Last month I purchased my first quality tripod. I looked at a couple of models for awhile before I settled on the Manfrotto 190XPROB along with the 496RC2 Ballhead. I purchased the kit together with a case over at B&H Photo. I was even able to take advantage of a rebate. The rebate is a $50 pre-paid Visa Card!
After using it practically every day since, I have to say that I totally love my tripod. It took a bit of getting used to the ballhead. My old one had a pan/tilt head, so I was used to that. So in deciding which one to purchase I looked at that type of head or the grip style as well. Some of the reviews I read on the grip style head mentioned that you had to have a really strong grip to use one, so I ruled that one out.
The weight is light enough that it doesn’t feel too heavy for me to carry on a short hike. But it feels sturdy enough to support my camera.
This year I’m concentrating on taking my time and getting sharper images. I think my new tripod is really going to help.
BTW – The above photo was taken with my iPhone. I shot this sunset scene of Bandon’s Face Rock with my DSLR. You can view the photo on my website titled, “Face Rock”. I also have prints available at my Redbubble Shop.
