Fiber Tripod
Choosing a Tripod for Travel / Nature Photography
In today’s camera market, you will find an endless supply of gear, some useful, some not so, some quality, and some not. This variety makes it harder to find exactly what you need, especially when you are not sure of exactly which features you need and which you can do without. A tripod is an essential part of an arsenal carried by any Travel and Nature photographer. You already know that for sharpest images you need to use a tripod. What you are wondering no doubt is why there is such a significant price range among the different manufacturers of tripods, and whether or not it makes sense for you to make a significant investment in a tripod.
Basic Function of a Tripod
First, let’s quickly examine what a tripod will do for us. First and foremost, it supports our camera, attached lens, and some of the other gear, like a flash unit, etc. It helps us position our camera at an odd angle at times. It helps us get higher than our typical shooting stance, and get lower at times for macro work. The most appropriate tripod for you will depend on your shooting style, and choice of subject matter. There is not one tripod out there that is better with every subject matter; on the contrary, most tripods are specialists. Most are build to be versatile, but each is build to excel in a certain area of photography.
So, what areas should your tripod excel to be useful for outdoors shooting?
If you are planning to shoot nature, there are certain aspects of the outdoors which your tripod will have to endure, which it would not, if it was used indoors.
Moisture is an enemy of photography gear. If you plan to shoot landscapes in the wilderness, wild animals, birds, etc., your camera and you will end up in some wet environments. As such, you have to make sure that your tripod choice reflects this fact. Many manufacturers build tripods specifically meant for the outdoors, and they are built to be moisture resistant, if not proof.
Terrain is always a concern outdoors. A good tripod should have spiked feet, simply because you will often end up on loose soil, dirt, and other surfaces that will be uneven, and require sharp spikes to secure the tripod, and attached gear.
Load is a very important aspect to consider. How heavy is your camera and your heaviest lens? Are you planning on getting larger heavier lenses in the future? Are you planning to try a medium or a large format camera? While it is tough to predict, always try to plan ahead. Your choice of a tripod will reflect your future purchases. Always, make sure you tripod has at least 30% of capacity for future upgrades to your equipment. If you plan to shoot wild life, you will have some really heavy lenses, and a tripod will have to support them, and allow you to pan smoothly, when shooting animals in action.
Weight is probably the main determining factor in your purchase. Remember, when you travel and explore, you will have your tripod with you, and depending upon how much walking you do, weight of your tripod will be more or less important to you. However, always aim for highest ratio of weight to load. In other words, look for lightest tripod rated for highest weight. Outdoors are often rough environments and every pound counts. Think about this a lot.
Leveling is important especially for panoramic shooters. If you plan to capture panoramas of nature, your tripod base must be leveling. Look for a tripod with a large easy to use bubble level (spirit level). A level base is a “MUST” for good panoramas.
Flexibility of shooting positions is important when you change subject matter on the fly. If you are like me, you will shoot macro, landscapes, panoramas, and perhaps even some animals, depending on time of day and weather. If so, a flexible center column is a must feature. Look for a tripod which allows for multiple positions of the center column. My favorite tripods allow for the column to be vertical, horizontal , and everything in-between. A tripod should allow you to get low, and have more than one foot angle. Best tripods for this job will offer up to three different angles for the feet, which will allow you to get very low if need be, to shoot flowers, insects, etc.
How Much Money?
Choosing a tripod is not easy. Some manufacturers do make things easier and group them into specialties, like outdoors, studio use, etc. Do as much research as you can, because there is not one ideal model that suits everyone. Remember the old saying: “You get what you pay for”. This is very important when deciding how much you are willing pay. Keep in mind, a huge budget will not mean you get the best tripod, but it will mean that you have more choices. Do not look for a cheap tripod, which you think may suffice. Your shooting requirements will change, and within a year or two you will be shopping for another one. Strongly consider Carbon Fiber. CF tripods are lighter than any alloy, more durable, will not bend, and flex under the weight of your gear, and do not rust, corrode, or are adversely affected by moisture. They are more expensive, but without a doubt worth the extra money. Look at this purchase as a long-term investment in photography. After all, your images will only be as good as your shooting ability and your gear.
About the Author
Written by Professional Photographer, who recently started an Online Photographer Community, to allow photographers freedom to share their most favorite shooting locations, regardless of the subject matter and place. Consider joining this community, if you would like to contribute your favorite locations, as well as discover new places from other members. To learn more, please visit WorldonPaper.com
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Sachtler Video 18 P Carbon Fiber Tripod System 18P $4,499.00 |
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Benro C1690TB0 Carbon Fibre Travel Angel Camera Tripod/Ball Head Kit $440.46 |
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BENRO C-1691 EX + B-0 C1691FB0 Carbon Fiber Tripod Kit (Flip-lock of C1691TB0) $329.00 |
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VELBON GEO N530 N 530 CARBON FIBRE TRIPOD Nut locking legs HEIGHT:160cm Load 6kg $321.99 |
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CARBON FIBER TRIPOD WITH MAGNESIUM BALL SOCKET HEAD NEW $479.98 |
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Sirui S-2204-N Prof 8X Carbon Fiber Tripod / Monopod- Folds Flat for travels! $453.95 |
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CARBON FIBER TRIPOD WITH PROFESSIONAL 3-WAY PANHEAD-NEW $484.98 |
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CARBON FIBER TRIPOD WITH COLLAR LOCK BALL SOCKET HEAD $469.98 |
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CARBON FIBER LEG ASSEMBLY-TRIPOD HEAD NOT INCLUDED-NEW $359.99 |
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CARBON FIBER TRIPOD WITH MEDIUM BALL SOCKET HEAD- NEW $469.98 |
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9″ CARBON FIBER CENTER COLUMN, TRIPOD, ACCESSORIES-NEW $39.99 |
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CARBON FIBER TRIPOD WITH PROFESSIONAL 3-WAY PANHEAD-NEW $489.98 |
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CARBON FIBER TRIPOD WITH 2-WAY FLUID EFFECT PANHEAD-NEW $439.98 |
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GITZO Series2 6x Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs Kit GT2541EX – EMS (4-6 days) Shipping $721.24 |
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Gitzo GT1531 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod with G-Lock & Groung Level Set $400.00 |
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Gitzo GT1541 Series 1 4Section Mountaineer Fiber Tripod $639.95 |
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Gitzo GT2541 6x Carbon Fiber Tripod Kit with Ball Head #GT2541K1 $1,074.65 |
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Vanguard Alta Pro 254CT Carbon Fiber Tripod COMPACT For travel! $329.99 |
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GITZO 6X Carbon Fiber Explorer Tripod Legs GT2531EX / Post EMS Fast Shipping $609.00 |
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GITZO GT1542T Series 1 6X Traveler Carbon Fiber 4-Section G-Lock Tripod $579.99 |
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GITZO GT2541EX Series2 6x Carbon Fiber Explorer Tripod Legs Kit / Post EMS Fast $697.99 |
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Brand Carbon Fiber Digital Camera SLR DSLR Tripod Ball Head And Bag Professional $129.99 |
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WFC570 Camera Carbon Fiber Tripod&Head Height1476mm/58″ $118.00 |
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WFC570A Video Studio Carbon Fiber Tripod Leg&Drag Head Kits Hight 1480mm/58″ $129.00 |
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WFC552S Studio Carbon Fiber Tripod & Drag Ball Head 1480mm/58″ 6Kg/13Lb $138.00 |
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WFC552AS Carbon Fiber Tripod Leg&Drag Head Nikon Camera $149.00 |
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WFC552AD Phooto Carbon Fiber Tripod&Drag Head Hight1520mm/60″ $159.00 |
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WFC553AS Photo Carbon Fiber Tripod&Drag Ball Head Hight1670mm/66″ $195.00 |
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FT565T Video Studio Photo Carbon Fiber Heavy Duty Tripod Leg Hight1650mm/65″ $183.00 |
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FT575T Photo Video Carbon Fiber Heavy Duty Tripod Leg Hight1780mm/70″ $178.00 |
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FT6826A Carbon Fiber Tripod&Drag Head Photo Camera Hight1785mm/70″ $189.98 |
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FT6663T Video Camera Carbon Fiber Tripod Base Legs Hight1520mm/60″ $178.00 |
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WFC554AS Studio Carbon Fiber Tripod&Ball Head Kit Hight2090mm/82″Load10Kg/22Lb $238.00 |
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WFC554AD Pro Camera Carbon Fiber Tripod & Ball Head Kit $248.00 |
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Gitzo G1128 Mountaineer Mk2 Carbon Fiber Tripod & Manfrotto 701RC2 V Fluid Head $400.00 |
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Polaroid 75″ Pro Carbon Fiber Tripod With Removable Ballhead with Carrying Case $189.99 |
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Professional Carbon Fiber Camera Tripod Monopod Ball Head For SLR DSLR With Bag $159.99 |
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Vanguard Alta Pro 284CT 4-Sect Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs $369.99 |
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154CM Pro Carbon Fiber Camera DSLR SLR Video Tripod Monopod Ball Head Brand New $161.99 |
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NEW Dolica CX620B104 61-Inch Proline Carbon Fiber Tripod with Ball Head $40.98 |
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GITZO Series2 6x Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs Kit GT2541EX $738.97 |
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MANFROTTO Carbon Fiber Tripod 3-Section 055CXPRO3 $446.97 |
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MANFROTTO Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs 055CX3 $392.97 |
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MANFROTTO MDEVE Carbon Fiber Tripod 755CX3 $618.97 |
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Rocketfish RF-TRP65C 65″ Lightweight Carbon Fiber Tripod 17.6 lb MAX – FREE SHIP $99.99 |
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WFC554TS Pro Photo Camera Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs $180.00 |
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Schulz Tripod – Professional Carbon Fibre Tripod, spreader bar and Case $50.00 |
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Manfrotto 190CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs+1 Year Warranty $369.80 |
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Vinten VISION 100 Carbon Fiber Tripod System (White) Vision 100 Fluid Head, 2-S $2,325.00 |
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New Benro C2691TB1 Transformer Carbon Fiber Tripod Kit $369.00 |
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MEFOTO (Benro) C1350Q1 Traveler Carbon Fiber Tripod Monopod Kit (GOLD color) $294.50 |
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MEFOTO (Benro) C1350Q1 Traveler Carbon Fiber Tripod Monopod Kit (RED color) $294.50 |
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MEFOTO C1350SQ1 (C1350Q1 Short Version) Carbon Fiber Tripod Monopod Kit (BLUE) $294.50 |
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MEFOTO (Benro) C1350Q1 Traveler Carbon Fiber Tripod Monopod Kit TITANIUM SILVER $294.50 |
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New Benro Mefoto C1340Q1 Carbon Fiber Tripod Ballhead Kit Set Black $320.00 |
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New Benro Mefoto C1350Q1 Carbon Fiber Tripod Ballhead Kit Set Black $320.00 |
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New Benro Mefoto C2340Q2 Carbon Fiber Tripod Ballhead Kit Set Black $350.00 |
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New Benro Mefoto C2350Q2 Carbon Fiber Tripod Ballhead Kit Set Black $350.00 |
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MEFOTO (Benro) C1340Q1 Traveler Carbon Fiber Tripod Monopod Kit (GOLD color) $294.50 |
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MEFOTO (Benro) C1340Q1 Traveler Carbon Fiber Tripod Monopod Kit (RED color) $294.50 |
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MEFOTO (Benro) C1340Q1 Traveler Carbon Fiber Tripod Monopod Kit TITANIUM SILVER $294.50 |
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Benro C1690TB0 Carbon Fiber Tripod Kit **Express Ship $325.00 |
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Velbon GEO E430 CARBON FIBRE CAMERA TRIPOD w/ CASE $252.22 |
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Camrock Carbon Fibre Tripod TXC66 for dSLRs Cameras New $165.90 |
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Slik PRO 724 Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs for Camera NEW $236.97 |
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SACHTLER VIDEO 20 II PAN HEAD – CARBON FIBER TRIPOD w/ SPREADER $3,250.00 |
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Gitzo GT1542T Series 1 Traveler 6x Carbon Fiber 4-Section Tripod w/ G-Lock *NEW* $599.90 |
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Gitzo GT3541L 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs *BRAND NEW* $799.95 |
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VANGUARD AUCTUS 283CT CARBON FIBER TRIPOD + SBH-300 BALLHEAD NEW $449.95 |
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Opteka CFT80 65″ 8x Carbon Fiber Tripod w/Ball Head NEW $99.95 |
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Opteka CFT90 64″ 8x Carbon Fiber Tripod w/Ball Head NEW $109.95 |
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Manfrotto 509HD,536K Carbon Fiber Video Tripod Kit $1,599.00 |
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Brand New Slik 634CF 634 CF Carbon Fiber Tripod fr DSLR $289.99 |
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Slik 634CF Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-200DS Ball Head $329.99 |
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Brand New Slik 724CF 724 CF Carbon Fiber Tripod fr DSLR $334.99 |
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Manfrotto MT057C3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod $749.95 |
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Slik 724CF Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-200DS Ball Head $374.99 |
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WFC570T Photo Video Studio Carbon Fiber Tripod Baselegs Hight1390mm/55″ $99.98 |
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Brand New Slik 824CF 824 CF Carbon Fiber Tripod fr DSLR $375.99 |
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WFC552TS Photo Studio Carbon Fiber Tripod Leg 1380mm/54.5″ 6Kg/13Lb $110.00 |
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Slik 824CF Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-200DS Ball Head $415.99 |
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WFC552TD Travler Studio Carbon Fiber Tripod Leg Hight1450mm/57″ $119.00 |
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WFC553TS Video Carbon Fiber Tripod legs Hight1570mm/62″ $149.00 |
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FT6826T Photo Camera Carbon Fiber Tripod Base legs Hight1670mm/66″ $146.00 |
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WFC554TS Studio Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs Hight1960mm/77″ $180.00 |
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EI7087C2 Video Studio Carbon Fiber Tripod&Fluid Drag Head Kit Hight1740mm/69″ $1,850.00 |
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FT6694T Studio Carbon Fiber Tripod Base legs Hight1630mm/64″ $156.00 |
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EI7107C2 Carbon Fiber Tripod&Fluid Drag Head Hight1740mm/68″MaxLoad25kg/55Lb $2,398.00 |
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WFC554TD Photo Camera Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs $189.00 |
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Gitzo GT2531 Series 2 6x Carbon Fiber Tripod Kit #GZGT2531KC $757.04 |
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Brand Carbon Fiber Digital Camera Tripod Ball Head For DSLR SLR Video Camcorder $125.99 |
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GITZO 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs GT2531EX $690.97 |
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Flashpoint F-1228 Carbon Fiber Tripod, 4 Section Leg Set, Supports 17.6 lbs $54.00 |
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POLAROID TRIPOD 75″ PHOTO/VIDEO PRO CARBON FIBER PLTRIC75 INCLUDES BALL HEAD $179.99 |
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K9C Photography Tripod GX-1227 3 section carbon fiber $151.90 |
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K9D Photography Tripod GX-1228 * 4 section carbon fiber $154.90 |
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Professional!! Carbon Fiber Camera DSLR SLR Video Tripod Monopod Ball Head Brand $161.99 |
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NEW Dolica CX620B104 61-Inch Proline Carbon Fiber Tripod with Ball Head $39.98 |
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NEW Dolica CX620B104 61-Inch Proline Carbon Fiber Tripod with Ball Head $39.98 |
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MEFOTO (Benro) C2350Q2 Traveler Carbon Fiber Tripod Monopod Kit (BLUE color) $349.50 |
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Power Bright DX100-12 Direct Plug In Power Inverter 100 Watt 12 Volt DC To 110 Volt AC $17.99 This ultra slim pocket size inverter plugs into cigarette lighter or to airplane DC socket to power laptops, cell phone chargers and other small electronic device…. |
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Little Giant 12580 Ultra Step 300-Pound Duty Rating Fiberglass Ladder, 5-to-8-Foot $239.99 The Little Giant 12580 5-8 Fiberglass Ultra Step Stepladder features a unique tripod design that makes it extremely lightweight without compromising durabiliity. Its nonconductive fiberglass side rails make it perfect for when you’re working around electricity. The 12580 stepladder’s adjustable legs allow it to be used safely on stairs, ramps, curbs, docks or other uneven surfaces an… |
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The Joy Factory Tournez2 Versatile Carbon Fiber Tripod Mount with 360 Angle Adjust for iPad 2 – Black (AAB105) $63.11 Using the Tournez Tripod Mount for iPad 2 from The Joy Factory in combination with one of the many downloadable lighting apps, you can turn your iPad into the perfect light source to change colors, shadows, brightness and more. The Tournez tripod mount has a flexible arm that allows you to adjust the height and spherical rotation joints for unlimited angles – thus letting you create the kind of li… |
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Lowepro SlingShot 350 AW (Black) $179.99 The Lowepro SlingShot 350 AW is perfect for the photojournalist or serious enthusiast who wants a sling-style camera bag that allows easy access while wearing, plus room for a notebook computer. The ergonomic sling strap evenly adjusts weight and easily rotates from back to front—making it simple to work out of the bag. The roomy main compartment is outfitted with adjustable, padded dividers… |
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Canson Platine, 100% Fiber Rag Smooth Bright White Matte Inkjet Paper, 310gsm, 17 x 50′ Roll $106.50 Platine Fibre Rag is the combination of the premium 100% cotton Platinum paper that Canson has supplied for many years to the original Platinum and Platine photographic market, with the latest microporous coating, making the traditionaldarkroom paper now available for your digital printing. Setting the benchmark for Digital Darkroom papers, Platine Fibre Rag provides the aesthetic and feel of the … |
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2 Pack Battery And Charger Kit For Nikon P100 P500 P510 Digital Camera Includes 2 Extended (1100 Mah) Replacement Nikon EN-EL5 Batteries + AC/DC Rapid Charger + LCD Screen Protectors + ButterflyPhoto MicroFiber Cleaning Cloth $19.95 This Kit Includes Some Of The Essential Accessories You Need To Take Full Advantage Of Your New Nikon Coolpix Nikon Coolpix P100 P500 P510 Product Description Kit Includes: ? 1) Vidpro – (Qty. 2) HI-Capacity (1100 Mah) Lithium Ion Battery – Replaces Nikon EN-EL5 ? 2) Zeikos – Deluxe Universal 5″ LCD Screen Protectors ? 3) ButterflyPhoto – ButterflyPhoto Micro Fiber Cleaning Cloth ? 4) Vi… |
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Ravelli Professional 65 Ball Head Camera Video Photo Tripod with Quick Release Plate and Carry Bag $63.69 The Ravelli APGL5 is a Professional Quality Tripod providing a solid base for high-end photographic equipment. This model is made from Aluminum to create a light weight and sturdy tripod. The ball head provides smooth adjustments to any angle. The center column is gearless and the legs can be inverted for low angle shots. Dual foam grips, quick release leg locks, a quick release camera plate and… |
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Pedco UltraClamp Assembly $22.99 The UltraClamp allows a camera to be solidly attached to a car window, bicycle handlebar, picnic table, or other similar object. Strong enough for any camera or camcorder, the UltraClamp attaches to round or flat objects up to 1.5 inches thick. The UltraClamp utilizes the same ball and socket mount found on UltraPods to allow the camera maximum flexibility in framing the subject. Weighs 6 oz. and … |
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Power Bright XR100-12 100 Watt Ultra-Slim 12 Volt DC To 110 Volt AC Power Inverter With USB $19.95 12V DC to AC 100 Watt Ultra-Slim Power Inverter. This inverter plugs into your cigarette lighter or to Airline adapter to power laptops, cell phone chargers and other small electronic devices in your vehicle… |
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NEW The Joy Factory Tournez AAB105 Tripod Mount (AAB105) $129.11 Main FeaturesManufacturer/Supplier: The Joy FactoryManufacturer Part Number: AAB105Manufacturer Website Address: www.thejoyfactory.comBrand Name: The Joy FactoryProduct Line: TournezProduct Model: AAB105Product Name: Tournez AAB105 Tripod MountMarketing Information: Ever used an iPad for photography, whether it’s home-use or professional? The iPad can actually be used as a light source for photogr… |
