Recommend a tripod from Fry's electronics

[BetterSense]

I'm going to shoot some fireworks this weekend so I need a tripod. I don't have much money (definitely <$50, preferably more like $25). I'm sure I can't buy a very good tripod, but Fry's has a bunch of them in that price range. Maybe I should get a smallish one?

 

[mgb74]

Hate to say this, but I think you'd be wasting your money. Although fireworks may not require all that sharp an exposure.

Better to find a used Bogen/Manfretto or Tiltall. Check craigslist if it's active in your area.

If you do go with a small/light tripod, don't extend the legs any more than absolutely necessary and don't extend the center column at all.

 

[oldlugs]

You're not going to get a <i>good</i> tripod from Fry's for $50 or under. I'm guessing you're shopping at Fry's either because you or a friend works there, or you have a gift card...? Don't waste your money on a cheesey tripod! If you really need a cheapo, pick one up from a thrift store for $5-$10. Otherwise, for a new tripod... Spend at least $100 on a new (Chinese) Tiltall. Probably the most stable for the $. Better yet, spend $60-$80 on a clean old used (Marchioni - USA made) Tiltall. The next jump up in cost may get you a slightly lighter setup, but not much more stable.

 

[David A. Goldfarb]

I agree with the others. Best tripod for the money is a secondhand Marchioni or Leitz Tiltall.

 

[BetterSense]

Ok I'll probably forget it altogether then. The fireworks are tomorrow so I don't have time to hunt out a nice one. I was hoping to hear that there were actually decent tripods available for cheap. I just mentioned Fry's because they have a ton of them on display.

 

[Jon Shiu]

When I first started many years ago I bought a $20 tripod and used it a lot and got some great pictures. Should be able to get a decent one nowadays for $50. Try to get one that would be high enough without extending the column all the way, as it can get rickety. You would also need a cable release for your camera. Good luck!

Jon

 

[Iwagoshi]

Velbon CX-690

I agree with Jon, a cheap tripod is better than none at all, and for 35mm I do not see anything wrong with this tripod, just don't extend all the sections out, leave the last skinny section in the tube (legs).

Terry

 

[frdrx]

For roughly $50 get this: http://salestores.com/slab30trwi3p.html, for example. You would also have to pay for the shipping, but the Slik is a lot more stable than the aforementioned Velbon. Frankly, the Velbon is cr*p. I used the Slik Able 300DX for several years without complaining and sold it last week in battered condition for about $100 (here in Europe, that is) to buy a Feisol. So I think you can have this Slik for very little money.

 

[Iwagoshi]

For roughly $50 get this: http://salestores.com/slab30trwi3p.html, for example. You would also have to pay for the shipping, but the Slik is a lot more stable than the aforementioned Velbon. Frankly, the Velbon is cr*p. I used the Slik Able 300DX for several years without complaining and sold it last week in battered condition for about $100 (here in Europe, that is) to buy a Feisol. So I think you can have this Slik for very little money.

Agreed, Slik is a good tripod, it was my first--although it was a bit sturdier than the 300DX, but Fry's does not carry Slik, only Velbon.

 

[bdial]

If Fry's is your only choice in the timeframe you have, and you're willing to accept that it may not be the best deal, buy the sturdiest looking one they have. As stated, it will be better than nothing, assuming you work within it's limitations. If you know someone close by into photography, you might be able to borrow a better tripod. If you have any photographic stores nearby, they may have something used, or discontinued that you might obtain cheaply.

 

[dried_squid]

My new tripod cost more than many cameras. It's my fourth. I purchased a brand-new Marchioni Tiltall years ago. Still have it, but it's a little dusty, like me. Purchased an eye-level Gitzo.

I humbly suggest that a tripod and transparency film can teach you more about photography than you can see and remember. But they do make it seem possible.

I have often suggested to budding photographers to spend less on the camera and one lens, and budget for a tripod and flash. Both are less than convenient, but for many images, they add possibilities in leaps and bounds. Simply, it can be more fun.

On second thought, if you manually expose and focus, it can be more fun. If not, then your priorities are likely different.

 

[PVia]

A Slik will be fine, esp for a lighter 35mm camera...using mirror lockup will also help exposures. I took my Slik with me on my first trip to Europe, nice and light and it was great for all types of shots, including long night exposures.

You can judge for yourself after you see you your images, but it certainly is better than nothing.