Yet Another Travel Tripod Question

[Me!Thatswho]

Actually, it's more like two to be more precise.

First off, I have a Pentax K20d, which I love simply because it feels like a tank and works well with my "sausage" fingers. We're going to be traveling to the world in a month for a short trip. Because we're going "light" on the packing, I don't want to lug my larger tripod - not to mention that I have been given explicit instructions that there won't be room for it in the suitcase. And, because I'm going to try (huge emphasis on the try part) to shoot Hallowishes, I can't use my monopod (plus, it's the Manfrotto 560B which doesn't really collapse that small to begin with). I know that there has been several threads in recent months asking the same question, but I was wondering if those of you with heavier DSLRs have any recommendations for a travel tripod?

Also, to the same class of respondents, have you ever tried pairing one of those gorilla-pods with your camera, and, what kind of experience/success did you have?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Gianna'sPapa]

For travel, I use the Cullmann Magic 2. I use it with my Pentax K10. Its a great travel tripod and converts to a monopod. It weighs about 2 1/2 lbs and folds flat measuring about 13" x 5". It extends to 56". It fits perfectly in a suitcase because it folds flat. It comes with an ok ballhead. I also have the Gorillapod SLR Zoom. I used it to shoot fireworks from on top of a table at the dessert party. It did well. I have attached the link to B & H's website for the description of the Cullmann. Adorama and others also sell it.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=cullmann+magic+2&N=0&InitialSearch=yes

 

[Me!Thatswho]

Thanks! Based on the previous threads, I have been eying the Cullmann. I was, however, hesitant because of the weight of the camera. But, seeing how the k10 is also a tank, I doubt I will have any problems.

Also, thanks for the conformation about the gorilla pod. While I probably will wait on it for now, it's nice to know that it too will be an option for future trips.

 

[saturndb]

I have the Cullmann as well and it is a good travel tripod. Overall pretty sturdy. I used it last week with my Canon 40d, 28-70 L lens and a 17-40 L lens and it help well.

 

[Raindown]

I too was in search of a good travel tripod for when I take an evening to shoot night photography at Disneyland. I didn't really need a travel one but I didn't want to carry around something heavy even though I was only in the park a few hours.

I chose the Benro Travel Angel (http://www.benrousa.com/products_catalog_CarbonTravelAngelTripodKits.html)

I picked up the 169, but it looks like they are offering a different ballhead with it now. It does take a bit more time to set up than my Manfrotto with the tab release. This one uses a twist release. There is more setup and break down time, but if your shooting fireworks or staged shows it not really a big deal and you get quick at it. I have used it as a monopod while kneeing. I like that it comes with a case.

 

[Master Mason]

I have a slik 714 with a manfrotto ball head on it. completely portable and used many times at Disney at this point. It's the only one I use at this point although I now have several others, some that I bought and some that I have inheritied at this point.

I love my dads old metal tripods, they simply can't compare at this time with what the Slick gives me.

 

[Me!Thatswho]

Thanks for the additions to consider. Maybe choosing won't be as easy as I once thought. But, it's nice to know that I'll have options!

 

[Raindown]

Let us know what you end up with.

 

[richard85moon]

Hello guys, can I have a question for a while? what are the things that we must have to consider when we are going to travel? Thanks for the post.

 

[Me!Thatswho]

Let us know what you end up with.

After much thought, I opted for the Cullmann. One biggest selling point was that it folds flat, thus making it easier to pack.

Special thanks to everyone who offered their suggestions.