Which tripod head for large format photography

[Dwarak Calayampundi]

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.

[Alan Gales]

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.

[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

[Vaughn]

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

[Lachlan 717]

I have two of these, slightly different styles, both with 6"x9" (150x225mm) platforms. They work fine for my 8x10 Tachihara field camera.

- Leigh

Leigh,

Was this sized plate a special order/bespoke item? I can't find any reference to that size; only 6x7".

Thanks!

[Leigh]

Was this sized plate a special order/bespoke item? I can't find any reference to that size; only 6x7".

Hi Lachlan,

They're probably 6x7. I was relying on memory (which is never right).
Neither tripod is here in the office where I can measure it.

Sorry for the error.

- Leigh

[Tin Can]

I just measured one, it is 5-7/8 x 7 inches.

Fits the undercarriage of a Calumet C1 like it was made for it.

http://www.bencher.com/photo/gearheads.php

Hi Lachlan,

They're probably 6x7. I was relying on memory (which is never right).
Neither tripod is here in the office where I can measure it.

Sorry for the error.

- Leigh

[Kimberly Anderson]

Miller cine fluid head on bowl mount.

[Kirk Fry]

My Majestic tripod and head weighs 19 lb. Perfect for backpacking! Be perfect for holding up your tent. K

[Leigh]

Majestic tripods also work great for supporting your car if you need to change a flat or change the oil.

- Leigh