My tripods for Wildlife Photography : Gitzo Systematic, Ball head, Fluid Gimbal and traveller
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- Опубліковано 2 жов 2024
- Hey Guys,
So today I'm talking tripods, with a little guided walkthrough of the models I use day to day as a professional wildlife photographer out in the field! Over the last few months I've got a number of questions about the tripods I use so I thought I'd do a rather in depth look at my key tripod models and heads I use for work.
As many of you guys know I do work alongside Gitzo as one of their adventurers, but I originally spent my own hard earned money on the brand long before I started working with them! I truly back their products and wouldn't be recommending anything on this channel that I didn't personally love using.
Luckily for you guys as a brand adventurer, the guys over at Gitzo have given me an awesome Link and code for my followers and watchers to use! If you use one of the below links + the code TOMMASON15 you'll get an extra 15% off anything. The code is redeemable on any of the Gitzo products or affiliated brands like Lowepro/Manfrotto etc! It runs up to the end of the year ( So rather good if you're thinking of something for Xmas!)
Gitzo Systematic
www.gitzo.com/...
Gitzo 2 Sereis Traveller
www.gitzo.com/...
4 series Ball Head
www.gitzo.com/...
Fluid Gimbal
www.gitzo.com/...
For Manfrotto products
www.manfrotto....
For Lowepro Products
www.lowepro.co...
As always guys if you have any questions be sure to drop them down in the comments and I'll do my best to answer all of them, be it about tripods or anything wildlife photography related!
For more of my work you can check out my website
www.tommasonphoto.com
@TomMasonPhoto on instrgram
#wildlifephotography #tripod #photographygear
![Best TRIPOD HEAD for WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY | Ballhead vs gimbal vs video head [photo friday]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/eL4eOVsvO4g/mqdefault.jpg)
Great Video, my Gitzo is 31 years old. A few scratches and scars have been accumulated over that time. Still works well, look after it and as you say, it will last a lifetime 👍 keep well & stay safe 🇬🇧
Hi Tom Nice video thanks. I am interested in the fluid gimbal head which looks great for video. I am a bit concerned however that it wont move quick enough for fast moving birds and animals due to the resistance - how do you find it ?
I'm currently using a Sigma 150-600mm contemporary lens....would a gimbal still be necessary or a ball head still as good?
I am not Tom but from my years of experience it depends on if your subject is moving and how fast. Still or slow it’s not necessary but the more it moves and the quicker it moves the more the gimbal helps. Birds in flight for example the gimbal is necessary unless you can handhold. I use a Sony 200-600 while I can handhold it at the shutter speed you need for birds in flight it does become rather heavy after a while. It’s nice to have the weight on the tripod not on my arms. Also if the critter is moving or still it gives you the ability to switch to video with out any shakiness. I was surprised how few fluid gimbal heads are available it’s pretty much the Gitzo at about $500 dollars American or the Really Right Stuff at about $1500. I chose the Gitzo and have no regrets. And you will need some kind of leveling plate on the tripod so the camera stays level as you turn it . On the downside if your sitting down and the critter comes from a odd angle you can’t turn the camera far enough. You need to either move yourself or the tripod without spooking it. But that would be the same no matter what head you use.
To those photographers who believe the tripod is obsolete Try shooting a timelapse without it!
Great video, thank you. This is exactly what I needed and narrowed it down. Since you also use the Nikon Z9. I'm still a bit indecisive between the Systematic and the Traveler, series 2 for my Nikon Z9 (with cage) and mainly prime lenses up to 105mm (and sometimes a 5 inch display for video). For long exposures with a ND filter stability (vibration) is important, but weight when hiking in Norway is also something to consider. Would you use the Systematic and just endure the extra weight or buy the Traveler because it's good enough?
Most of the time expensive is equivalent to quality. I had Gitzo in the past, my opinion is that they are overpriced makers as Sirui and others offer the same use ability at a a fraction of the price. I have 4 Sirui tripods subway ball head and Gimbals and a Leofoto cross arm. I have being using them for years without a single problem. Years ago when using large format I bought 2 Arca Swiss ball heads that at the time were perceived as state of art. In time they suffered from internal deformations that requieres disassembling and reshaping of the plastic piston that pressed the ball to a higher friction or locking position. It also happened to two grind involved in photography. A much smaller ball head from Sunwayfoto is by far much better in all areas compared to the Arcas, again at a fraction of cost. I must say that the Chinese manufacturers are taking things seriously and in some cases surpassing traditional European and American manufacturers.
My advice is: Try different things with a critical approach and don’t rely on what the current wisdom dictates.
I now have a Nikon AF-S 200-400mm F4 G VRII lens which I plan to use on mu Nikon F5. I do have a tripod a Slik Pron700DX ..its too slow to deplqy. I am now thinking of replacing it with a Gitzo GK1542-80QD Mountaineer Series 1 Kit. Will this suffice for this camera/lens combination? Thanks very much in advance.
Love these and this setup costs more than most photographers camera. lol
Whenever I shoot a landscape or such I use a tripod and a cable release. When I don't a little voice in my head says "You don't really care about this do you?" and I HATE that little voice. A tripod liberates me, while some say it bogs them down. I can use pretty much any ISO, shutter speed or aperture, as long as the subject isn't moving. If I counted on IS, in any of its forms, I'd still wonder if it was being effective. As far as expense goes I have a large Gitzo carbon fibre tripod and an Arca-Swiss B1 ball head. The replacement cost in Canada is somewhere around $2500. I have maybe $350 tied up in it because it's all used. Tripods and accessories don't have to be state of the art as not a lot has changed. Do the newer leg clamps work better? Maybe. But is that worth $2K?
Nice video, but I have one complaint - it’s not specifically about your video, but there are few enough comments that I might actually get a response. I hate when people use terms that you can’t find a definition for. I often feel like I’m the only one who doesn’t know a lot of things, like what an N series tripod is, where N is an integer between 1 and 5. I’m guessing it’s about the diameter of the first leg section, but I searched the internet for 15 minutes and didn’t find a definition, just lots of people using the term.
Great advertising for Gitzo.
0:33 anyone that says that are the type of people to buy 99 in 1 tools and wonder why they can't do the job better than the guy that uses a bunch of tools.. XD
Great info as always Tom :) I know this was a very Gitzo oriented video, but I thought I'd ask anyway: what are your thoughts on Flexshooter heads as a do-it-all hybrid of ball head and gimbal movement?
I've never used one so I can't say, although from my experience over the years across the board, hybrid things never work as well as dedicated for certain tasks so if I want a gimbal I'll use one, if I'm working with a variety of styles, Ill use the ball head. Cheers, Tom
@@TomMasonPhoto Thanks Tom, yeah, it's certainly never going to be as good as dedicated solutions, but the range of opinions and reviews seems pretty bog for them - I guess they're a bit like 'marmite' and folks either get on with them and accept the compromises, or can't deal with it...
Very good, dankeschön. 🇩🇪
Excellent video. I bought a Gitzo GT3543LS some time ago after watching one of your videos, and now I'd like to buy this gitzo GT4553s... The price is the problem as always :)... Thanks Tom!
The smaller gitzo is really nice but the 3 series is still such a boss tripod. I really want to see like a super mini tripod that's ultra small!
great video, I have one of the gitzo vintage replica tripods {GK2380VQR}, with the GH2780VQR ball head, works great, small and have used it with my H1 and 300mm lens, but YES, do want the 4 series systematic now, the size of that ball head, really what I need for MF and long lenses. I shoot mainly architecture, landscape and seascapes, the long lens work is just for details, from afar, not wildlife, but still a great recommendation, as You are the first to actually mention MF in regards to capacity, THANKS.
If you like to destroy a expensive 600 mm lens use a ball head😂
Why would using a ball head destroy my 600mm? With the variable friction and huge load capacity it’s not being stressed. Although I will state I only really use a ball head for the 600mm when travelling and I don’t also want to carry a gimbal due to weight!
Great to see another Gitzo user. I've suffered through the top Manfrotto, which actually does work as a paperweight.
For sure Gitzo are just such premier photography tripods, as you say often for many they arrive at them after buying many previous tripods so I hope this video saves people a few costly detours!
Last week I received a Gitzo GH4383LR, but unfortunately the lock/unlock lever is mounted the other way around (something that is immediately visible, just look at the inverted position of the padlock design) so the lever does not unlock 100%. It's unbelievable how this can happen in a product of this level. Where was the quality control ???
Oh that that made me laugh - I paused you Tom, to fetch a Mug o'tea, just as you were saying, that many are suggesting that tripods are redundant. I Paused the vid, said to myself, "I don't agree with that!",,,,,,, and when I returned and pressed play, you said: "It's Absolute Rubbish!". Perfectly timed and I couldn't agree more. I do appreciate the way that you make your videos pretty manufacturer agnostic, focusing on function and technique. All the best, Clive
Tom have you used the 5 series Systematic legs with the 4 series ball head yet.?
Get channel I have subscribed tonight.
I love use tripods taking photos most of my time. I am lucky that I bought a vintage Linhof tripod recently which is my most favorite one, Gitzo tripod and Manfrottob monopod both are good as well.
Hey Tom, Which Gitzo bag fits all that gear? I have similar kit and it’s probably time I give them a home rather than having it bounce around in the back of my car
My main tripod is a Gitzo that I bought over 20 years ago. Still works as good as the day I bought it. No regrets at all.
Thank you for very useful video. Recently I bought series 3 which is little bit lighter than 4 but I’m wondering if the quality of carbon fiber is better in 4 vs 3?
I also use the Gitzo GT4553S - a fantastic set of legs! I'm sure they will be a worthwhile lifetime investment.
Hi Tom I enjoy watching your videos you were the one who inspired me to become wildlife photographer l love your photos they are very unique and tell a beautiful story
I wanted to know if you have any plans for visiting wildlife photo hotspots like Costa Rica, Africa, Alaska, etc
I would love if you visit India I am Indian myself and I can guarantee you wouldn’t want to go back if you came here
The amount of biodiversity is overwhelming
Well said .... except for the pronunciation of the brand name.
I was told by a wise old photographer. "Buy the best tripod you can't afford". I've ignored this advice to my sorrow. But one good tripod and you will not need another for many years.
100% buy a good one and enjoy it!
How do you find the fluid gimbal vs non fluid eg Wimberley?
Hi Tom which lever clamp are you using ?
Good Video with some interesting information. Models have certainly changed since I purchased my Gitzo in 1992. Still works, a bit heavy by todays standards. You never know what Santa may bring 😮 keep well & stay safe 👍🇬🇧
Glad you found the video helpful, yes they certainly have changed! They are a stunning investment though as a photographer!
I picked up a G1227 mk2 for £8 in a charity shop, it is CF, and amazing. I think it was so cheap because with a G1171 head it looked like ancient junk on plastic to the people in the shop. I fitted a quality ball-head and it's now my number 1 tripod. You can have the G1171 if you want... Its not my thing, otherwise I will sell it.
What a bargain! I have enough tripods myself but thanks for the offer its very kind!
Great Video!
For the Nikon 200-500 F5,6, would you recommend a gimbal head or is a ball head enough? (I also do some video)
Personally I think a ball head is enough with the 200/500 but if you do video then maybe think about a video fluid head because you’ll get much smoother pans and tilts than you would with a gimbal! Cheers, Tom
Hello Tom, Yes the tripod is a great bit of kit. As to the type of tripod I have about 5. One for studio, one for big cameras like 5*4 , light weight small, and one for longer lenses with a gimble. Yes they are a pain, but they can be so good, Rhee slow you down that bit giving you the extra time to think?
For sure tripods are wonderful at slowing you down and making you think, giving you time to experiment with compositions as well as styles!
Wonderful content. thank you for sharing. have a good day!❤👍
Thank you! You too!
Great video! it looks like a Garmin watch you're wearing? - do you have any "photography related" app's on that? sunrise/sunset or simmilar? any tips? :)
Hey Kim, TBH as much as I LOVE my Garmin watch (Its a Fenix 5s plus) I must admit I fairly under use it and should possible look into more apps etc! But I do find it super handy with navigation, adding pre planned routes as well as storing GPS locations when I find subjects out in the field or leave camera traps! Most of the time I'm using it more for my love of hiking but for sure its very handy when I'm out working in the field as well, especially weather and navigation!
Hi Tom. What camera bag are you using there?. And what Nikon camera body are you using for the landscapes?.
So I'm using the Lowepro Whistler 450 AW I (the original one) that I spay painted myself to change the colour a bit. The landscape camera I was showing in the Video was my Z6 but TBH I use my Z9 I just happened to be filming the video with it!
Hey Tom, just tried your gitzo ballhead link and tried your tommason discount code, but it doesn't work (i.e. doesn't drop 15% off) - can you investigate please ?
I’ll look into this right away! Were you logged in with an account on the site or checking out as a guest?
@@TomMasonPhoto Ahhh , yes I did it initiallly striaght from your link.... added it to the basket but discount didn't apply correctly.
But then I registered and reapplyed the code and it does apply the discount.
Thanks
Great video! Which camera backpack do you prefer? Gitzo adventury 45l (I know you have the 30) or the lowepro whistler 450?
That’s a hard one, the 30L is so good but I like it because it’s small, the 450 is just all round a great bag, however I do prefer the gen 1 model and not the gen II as they added a removable shelf between the main compartment and top lid that just keeps falling in and letting all your gear drop into the main section! But I think out of the two I’d have to go the Lowepro 450 AW I - but do remember I’ve modified mine and taken out the side hard plastic walls to maximise the potential space!
@@TomMasonPhoto thank you so much! Keep doing great vids!
Really beautiful 💚💚
Another great well presented video look forward to your promise on use of a monopod video.👍
Thank you, shall be working on it soon!
Hi your links are not accepted in the Gitzo page.
You have to log in with an account I. Order to redeem the codes
Gitzo is not too bad.
Just when it comes to shoot on the long edge of lenses: Check Sachtler!
Ive always found Gitzo Ideal for my tripods and photography heads, Although I am aware for video Sachtler are rather wonderful!
@@TomMasonPhoto Shooting stills or vid with a 600 4.0 on a Sachtler fluid head, that's more than paradise.
But this setup is not versatile.
Great video as always Tom, interested to know what scenarios you break out the Monopod in? As you said you used it more and more. Also, as well as a dedicated Monopod video, I am still interested to see a clothing/footwear video you mentioned previously ;)
Don't worry, the coats/clothing video hasn't been lost from my mind!
so I use the monopod more and more when I'm hiking longer or if I'm always working with wides/flash and trying to get the camera in unique angles (the monopods super handy for that) but in terms of using with my long lens, its more for subjects when I need to be able to react fast but am working from a standing position yet shutter speed is less of the issue, its more about supporting the weight for long stakeouts!
@@TomMasonPhoto Cheers, look forwards to both the videos then! 👍
Thanks very much for this information 👍
No problem 👍
👍👍 thanks 👌👌
No problem 👍
Thank you. 👍📷😎
no problem!
Wonderful video and has really informed me that I need to get a good tripod system to be able to get the images I want while I am taking wildlife and nature photographs, thank you and cheers!!!
Thanks for watching, glad you've found it helpful!