Tripod selection

[Ummagumma]

I need a tripod that can look downward - 90 degrees - to snap photos of coin-size objects. I can place objects on a pull-out leaflet of a desk ~3 feet (1 meter) above the floor. Tripod should also be capable of taking portrait shots. Weight is not a factor, but awkwardness-of-use is a negative. Currently looking at a SLIK U-5500 or a Sony VCT-R640, but uncertain of their capabilities. Suggestions?

[Peter_AUS]

Manfrotto 190DPro should do the trick as well, very nicely built and centre collum is removable to place horizontally on the tripod for the purpose you are seeking as well.

[Ummagumma]

The camera I'll be using is a Nikon CoolPix 3200 (a small, cheap (< 200 $US) digital camera). The Manfrotto 190 suggested costs more than the camera, and seems to be for serious photographers.

When you say a Manfrotto 190 should do the trick "as well", do you mean that the SLIK & Sony models (cheap, < 30 $US) I mentioned would suffice? Unfortunately, I have absolutely no knowledge of tripod terminology, so things like 2-way pan & 3-way pan are unintelligible to me.

In short, I'm looking for a cheap tripod that will take nadir & portrait photos.

[Peter_AUS]

Look you get what you pay for, don't you. Take you camera to a photography store and try the camera out, doing what you want to do with the tripods you are considering, in your price range and make an informed decision from that. That is the best idea and you will end up with something that you like using, not something someone else is recommending and you might end up not liking.

[Ummagumma]

need a suggestion for an inexpensive (< 40$USD) tripod that can take 90-degree downward looking photos. Snobs need not reply.

[Chunk]

need a suggestion for an inexpensive (< 40$USD) tripod that can take 90-degree downward looking photos. Snobs need not reply.

Geez...and I WAS going to recomend that you make sure that the tripods you are trying out in the camera store extended at least to eye level but never mind now.

My first cheap tripod was too short.

Snobby Chunk

[another view]

Most people that start with a cheap tripod (including me) quickly get rid of them. I could hold the camera steadier than my first tripod could. For that amount of money, I don't think you want any tripod - especially something that will do all that you're looking for it to do.

You'd be much better off with this, it would be as sturdy as what you would attach it to. It's basically a clamp attached to a tripod head: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/cont...ku=5161&is=REG
If it doesn't need to be portable, a trip to Home Depot's plumbing aisle would make something very sturdy to attach it to.

[paulnj]

CORRECT!!!!!!!

I wouldn't trust a camera of ANY size in a copy stand like position on ANY tripod in the under $100 range!

Calling Pete a snob was a very uncool thing..... 3 posts too ;)



If $$ is the issue and it need not be portable...... buy a CHEAP 2way head and some 3/8 course threaded rod and make a STAND that NEVER changes height , only SHOOTING ANGLE 1drill, 2 flat washers , 2 nylon locking nuts, wrench and the strength to bend the rod and you can mount it were ever you drill.

BTW.... the U5500 WILL NOT LET YOU DO WHAT YOU NEED(unless you put it centered above the object and it TRUELY aims STRAIGHT DOWN). You need a LATERAL ARM type or BENBO type tripod so the LEGS aren't in the way

[Trevor Ash]

Ummagumma, Pink Floyd fan?

Peter gave you good advice but sometimes comes across a little rough as in his first sentence. I understand your reaction. You should still heed his advice if you can.

[Peter_AUS]

Thanks Paul and Trevor for my defence.

I thought my advice was pretty sound advice, but getting called a Snob was a bit over the top not just from someone new but from anyone. I'm the last person who would fit that definition.

Unemployed, broke, modest education, in debt. But I'm happy, married with 2 healthy kids, trying to get on with life and help where and if I can. If that is being a Snob then so be it.

Again, I think my advice was very sound as I speak from past experiences that I have made and things just sit there, because I don't like using them as they really don't meet my needs.

Some times I wonder why I actually answer some peoples questions at all, but then, I suppose it is because I am that type of person.

I'm a Pink Floyd Fan myself, hope Ummagumma isn't, as that would really get under my skin ;) .

[Chunk]

Thanks Paul and Trevor for my defence.

I thought my advice was pretty sound advice, but getting called a Snob was a bit over the top not just from someone new but from anyone. I'm the last person who would fit that definition.

Unemployed, broke, modest education, in debt. But I'm happy, married with 2 healthy kids, trying to get on with life and help where and if I can. If that is being a Snob then so be it.

Again, I think my advice was very sound as I speak from past experiences that I have made and things just sit there, because I don't like using them as they really don't meet my needs.

Some times I wonder why I actually answer some peoples questions at all, but then, I suppose it is because I am that type of person.

I'm a Pink Floyd Fan myself, hope Ummagumma isn't, as that would really get under my skin ;) .

I kinda know how you feel, Peter. I was played for a fool by a newby a few weeks back and it fells like punch in the gut (If I remember correctly). I didn't feel much like posting for a few days but then figured that would be a bit like letting that jerk win his little game.
I'm glad you are here to help people with your experiences. I know you've helped me and quite a few others with your freely given advice.

Keep up the good work.