Which tripod head for large format photography
Hi
Just wanted to know what tripod heads people use for large format cameras. I own a chamonix 4x5 and will soon move to 8x10 as I only do contact printing I own only a ball hear and find it very hard to make adjustments. I know a three way pan head will solve my issues.
Just wanted to start the discussion on which brand is better I am looking for smooth controls and precision. What do you guys use.
Re: Which tripod hear for large format photography
The Majestic heads are geared for precision.
I like the Ries double tilt heads myself but they are not geared.
Either style head you will want the corresponding tripod.
Re: Which tripod hear for large format photography
Majestic tripods are excellent, rated to support 39 pounds (18 kg). The have geared forward/back rotation using a worm gear.
I have two of these, slightly different styles, both with 6"x9" (150x225mm) platforms. They work fine for my 8x10 Tachihara field camera.
- Leigh
Re: Which tripod hear for large format photography
Miller cine fluid head on bowl mount.
Re: Which tripod hear for large format photography
My Majestic tripod and head weighs 19 lb. Perfect for backpacking! Be perfect for holding up your tent. K
Re: Which tripod hear for large format photography
Majestic tripods also work great for supporting your car if you need to change a flat or change the oil. :D
- Leigh
Re: Which tripod hear for large format photography
I like the Gitzo Series 5 low profile pan/tilt head for use with 8x10 field cameras. They have a good-sized plate, are smooth to use, aren't super heavy, and can be found used for a reasonable amount.
Re: Which tripod hear for large format photography
I shoot 4x5 and I use the bogen 3021 with a 3047 pan tilt head, works great
Re: Which tripod hear for large format photography
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Leigh
Majestic tripods are excellent, rated to support 39 pounds (18 kg). The have geared forward/back rotation using a worm gear.
I have two of these, slightly different styles, both with 6"x9" (150x225mm) platforms. They work fine for my 8x10 Tachihara field camera.
- Leigh
They are nice -- but I found it better using the geared movement for side tilt rather than forward/back. YMMD
Re: Which tripod hear for large format photography
I use a Majestic head on a Bogen 3051 leg set, but I want a Berlebach 8043 Wood Tripod Legs with Levelling Center Column - Supports 17.6 lb (8.0 kg) Real nice, lightweight and actually cheap. High quality made in Germany.
Traditional and vibration free.
I believe in very sturdy tripods. I am converting a garage sale Cine Sachtler & Wolf wood leg set and Saltzman head to work together. Very HD with big leg spikes, that dig into the dirt, and a dolly for studio. Makes a Majestic look tiny.
Majestic's are very cheap used, but are reliable and will not drop a camera. The worm drive tilt is self locking and sideways is limited by built in stops to 15 degrees either side, so you won't have a big camera get away from you.
I find ballhead and 3 ways to be aggravating. I have never used a gear head, but in a camera store they seem slow to adjust.
I think it is also a big plus that Majestics are made in Chicago and cost under $300, new. Parts easily available and the 6x7 plate Leigh refers to is gentle on your camera.
I got my used, 4 Majestic tripods for well under $100.
I use the same Bogen leg set with 35mm and digital. I shoot out of my van or condo front door. No mountain climbing for me. Those days are long gone.