Tripod for Mamiya 645 1000s

[jmailand]

I bought a Mamiya 645 1000s last year on EBay. I really like the camera and now have a 55mm to go with my 80mm lens. My only problem is none of my cheap tripods, that worked fine with my 35mm equipment and Rolleicord, can really support this beast. Most of my pics with this camera have been handheld. I work in a factory and lift heavy objects all the time so the weight dosn't bother me. I just want a good reasonalby priced tripod so I can use the lower speeds and get sharper images. I'm looking for some recomendations as far as what tripod/ballhead combinations will work well with this camera.

Thanks James,

 

[Nick Zentena]

My Giottos 9180 isn't very expensive. I think it's about $160 in the US. It comes with a built in head and if your camera has a waist level finder I think it's good enough until you feel like adding something better.

http://www.giottos.com/eng_public/f...ation_detail.asp?ProductID=49&VariationID=296

It's not a light tripod. OTOH the choices tend to be cheap,light and strong. Pick two.

 

[photomc]

James, look at a Bogen/Monfrotto 3021 with a 3047 3way head that I have used for some time now. Have 645, and it is a perfect fit. Pick up the tripod sling they have for it and it is easy to carry around. There are others here that will give you other points of view and then you can find the one that fits you and your budget. Only thing I can recommend is DO NOT get a cheap tripod, it will make all the difference in the world if you get a good one.

 

[Shmoo]

I bought a Bogen 3011 with a ball head for my 645, never thinking beyond to what else I might use it for. It was plenty for the camera. Then I went to 4x5 and wish I had bought a heavier tripod. If you have no plans to go to LF, the 3011 is plenty otherwise, I agree with photomc, 3021 with 3047 head.

S

 

[Dave Parker]

I also use the 3021 with the 3047 and it works great, I also have Tiltalls that work great with the camera system.

Dave

 

[jmailand]

Thanks for the suggestions. I was thinking along the lines of a Bogen I will probably go that route.

James,