I am purchasing a Canham 5x7 camera after the first of the year and am in need o f some help. My problem is this:

I need a tripod and head that will allow me to take my new lightweight camera (6 #) into the high country that is nearly impossible with my 8x10. Weight and size are the primary considerations. Cost is a third.

While I have dearly loved the Ries A100 and the double tilt head as a place of r everence for my 8x10, should I go with lightweight carbon fiber (at a high cost) , a medium weight and lower cost Manfrotto/Bogen or go another direction. While I do not see it on their website, Ries lists a 21" folded length tripod in an C or H series that may work.

As far as a tripod head, my instincts tell me to stay away from the multiple lon g handled versions and get a slender ball head that is easy to strap with the tr ipod on my backpack. Are the quick release options truly reliable and do they sa ve setup time?

Any combinations that you would recommend? Many thanks.