Manfrotto quick releases scare me. Arca Swiss is a much better system, IMO. Unfortunately, the only heads I have on hand at the moment use the Manfrotto quick releases.
I understand the issue with the Bogen/Manfrotto heads...unlike other QR systems that have to have the lever move a large amount before the QR plate is released at all from the locking mechanism (like the Linhof Profi), the Manfrotto QR systems released the plate even with a relatively small movement of the release lever. Not sure if that flaw unlimately was finally designed out on later Manfrotto QR systems (or if they simply added a safety lock for the lever arm)
I'll carry a camera attached to a tripod under my arm , holding onto the cameras neck strap if it's a short distance , say 10-15 feet .General question: Any of you guys carry your camera around in the field with the camera attached to the tripod and the tripod slung over your shoulder? I cringe every time I see someone doing that. Looks like an accident waiting to happen.
I've always used Manfrotto quick releases and never once had a problem .Manfrotto quick releases scare me. Arca Swiss is a much better system, IMO. Unfortunately, the only heads I have on hand at the moment use the Manfrotto quick releases.
With those Bogen/Manfrotto hex plates, you need to be certain the locking lever is pushed all the way back in. It can feel secure halfway, but it isn't. They're actually quite secure when properly used. You also need to be aware of the correct orientation. The plates are labeled as per front end.
I have one of the architectural versions of the plate, which solves that problem, but it doesn't fit on every camera.
I have had problems with them becoming looser on the camera - allowing the camera to twist.
The original Arca Swiss QR system scared me - nice wedge and good clamping pressure with the exposed thumb screw, which when bumped could lossen, and then the shoe just slides out (!!). I remember a number of incidents where the shoe came off while people were carrying the tripod with equipment across their shoulders. The extra safety pins have helped. A nice system, never-the-less.Manfrotto quick releases scare me. Arca Swiss is a much better system, IMO....<snip>
Linhof Profil 3, now selling new for $1000.
I think Linhof is the German word for expensive. ;-)
Not MF, but note the somewhat flimsy ball head and the clever leveling/stabilization device under the tripod leg.
View attachment 344966
Every photographer needs a 5 pound ball head with a 3" diameter ball, and a carbon fiber tripod. It's a miracle that anyone even managed to take a photograph in the old days.
In seriousness, I think that may be an old Linhof small ball head and possibly a Linhof tripod (guessing from the shape of the casting). I have a ball head like that, it is pretty small but actually fairly sturdy. Still, a little bit of thought and patience will help one take a steady photo with modest equipment. (Unless you have a big camera and there's wind - patience won't help steady that.)
I don't think the criticism of some QR systems that they can let go if you put the tripod and camera slung on your shoulder and walk around with it is that well motivated. I understand it sucks if that happens, but if you want to do that, don't use a QR. The QR allows you to take the camera off when you walk around with the tripod slung.
I wouldn't dismiss carrying a QR'ed heavy camera on a tripod, either over you shoulders or under your arm, until you do it. QRs hold the camera better than a 1/4" or 3/8" screw - if you've ever carry that around, there is a tendency for the screw mount to loosen with a long lens or heavy camera. If you need to move 100 meters over, it's much easier to pick the whole thing up than dismantle. And even if we think one should not be carrying a tripod QR mounted cameras around, the fact is, people do. Pros do. And the QR sets up much faster - which was the point.<snip>
I don't think the criticism of some QR systems that they can let go if you put the tripod and camera slung on your shoulder and walk around with it is that well motivated. I understand it sucks if that happens, but if you want to do that, don't use a QR. The QR allows you to take the camera off when you walk around with the tripod slung.
I mostly use ball heads from Leofoto and RRS. Buy the largest model. A good ball head will have a friction knob that can be adjusted so the camera moves with little effort but does not flop around. Be prepared to spend $400 or so for a RRS ball head, one of the best.
I will add that it really depends on the situation. For studio and architectural work (or at least where I want precise control) I will use something like an Arca Swiss P0 geared ball head. If the camera is suspended above a still-life set-up, I might use a 3-way locking geared head like a Manfrotto 410 or Leofoto GW-01.
As an alternative, try a two way. I love the Leofoto VH-30
More compact than a lot of 3-way. Since you have a rotating back you won’t miss the 3rd axis. Fine, smooth movements. Well made and reasonably priced.VH-30 - Leofoto
Leofoto was founded at the beginning of 2014. It is located in Zhongshan, beautiful Pearl River Delta area in China. Leofoto team has been designing and manufacturing series of camera support systems by comparing and studying the high-end photographic accessories made in China and abroad and...www.leofoto.com
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