another question, new topic

I've found an old (from 70's) Bogen 3040 tripod with a mini fluidic head (no model # avail) in the paper for $45 OBO. The husband bought it for video camera - they filmed weddings. I notice Bogen makes both video and camera tripods. What's the difference? Is it useable with a DSLR (maybe with a new head)? New tripods seem to run about $200 for something around 74' (which is what I think this runs up to) but I have no idea about resale. It is over a 20 year old tripod! I have no idea of the condition either. The wife says very good, but I've found that could be anything from nearly new to 'very good for being 20 years old'. Thanks in advance for some advice...

2k2s

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Originally Posted by 2kids2shoot

I've found an old (from 70's) Bogen 3040 tripod with a mini fluidic head (no model # avail) in the paper for $45 OBO. The husband bought it for video camera - they filmed weddings. I notice Bogen makes both video and camera tripods. What's the difference? Is it useable with a DSLR (maybe with a new head)? New tripods seem to run about $200 for something around 74' (which is what I think this runs up to) but I have no idea about resale. It is over a 20 year old tripod! I have no idea of the condition either. The wife says very good, but I've found that could be anything from nearly new to 'very good for being 20 years old'. Thanks in advance for some advice...

2k2s

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Video tripods typically have a pan head, often with separate control rods and a panning handle. I've found them to be awkward when used with a camera because one hand is usually on the camera to release the shutter, and sometimes both hands are needed if you want to zoom or focus - very difficult to use a video tripod when you're metering and trying to compose quickly.<p>A ball head is fantastic for photography because of the unlimited axis movements it allows - it would be a pain in the butt to use it for video.<p>Each works well for its application, hence the differences. Now, having said this, I have friends that use tripods with the three control rods - up and down, side to side and vertical/horizontal. I'd sooner use a tree.

2k2s,

Bogan is actually Manfrotto, a good Italian brand that is quality made. As has been said, video has panning handles etc, not sure about the plate attachment screw, but should be the same as for cameras, but it does depend on the video camera they used.

My Manfrotto 190 tripod has a 141RC head that has three control arms on it, I don't find it too much of a pain, but I think a good ballhead would probably be better depending on the equipment it is attached to.

I really hate to reply to a person in a negative way but...

I HAD a ARCA SWISS B1G on GITZO 410 legs ..... It was not much easier to focus / zoom on that over a 3 way ;) I SOLD THEM ;)

Thanks all for your input!