Need advice on which tripod to grab for my Canon setup before I head out to Zion in a few weeks. I'm currently rocking a 5D Mark IV and some heavy L glass so I really need something that wont wobble when the wind picks up. Im torn between the Manfrotto 055 carbon fiber one - though the aluminum is way cheaper - and the Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB. The Manfrotto seems like the industry standard for Canon guys but its kinda pricey and I dont know if the weight savings are worth the extra cash.
On the other hand the Vanguard has that multi-angle center column which looks cool for macro shots but I've heard mixed things about its long term durability. My budget is capped at like 250 bucks maybe a bit more if its a buy it for life situation. I need it to fit in my checked luggage too since I'm flying out from the east coast and dont want to carry it on the plane. Basically just looking for something that can handle the weight of a full frame DSLR without creeping during long exposures at night. Which one do you guys think is the better move for someone doing mostly landscape and some milky way stuff? Or is there a third option I'm totally missing??
> Any Gitzo. Like someone mentioned, stability is everything. In my experience, Manfrotto 055 Aluminum 3-Section Tripod is way more reliable than Vanguard, but Benro Mach3 2 Series Carbon Fiber Tripod is a solid, safer budget pick.
Definitely get the Manfrotto MT055CXPRO3 Carbon Fiber 3-Section Tripod for Zion! It handles heavy L glass like a total dream.
^ This. Also, how tall are you actually? Ive seen guys buy short sticks then hate life after crouching in the Zion dust for hours. In my experience, you should just go with any Gitzo. Theyre basically the gold standard for stiffness and Ive never had one fail.
Ok adding this to my list of things to try. Thanks for the tip!