Understood, Drew, and I mostly agree. And I wouldn't presume to compare the ultralight to a big tripod designed for LF use.
However, I've found that using my current lightweight tripod - a 4-section jobber that only gets 47" tall and has detachable legs that can each be used as a monopod and is only 22mm at its thickest leg section - gets me sharp negs on 8x10.
I doubt I'd get equally good results in heavy wind, but I'll get to testing that eventually. I use a tent peg and string to anchor a tripod in the wind, but rarely has it been really necessary.
I did a rough vibration test with a small laser, and it passed with flying colors. But I also think the camera (a Wehman) is more solid than, say, a 2D, so it gives off less vibration too.
So yes, the proof will become apparent only once the actual 2-section tripod is used and tested. But it looks promising for a casual day tripper.
I'll be happy to report my own unscience-y results and as usual, the tripod will go to David at The Center Column for a scientific peek under the hood.
I'd be thrilled if 22mm tubes were enough, but it may be that we'll need to build a 2-section tripod with slightly thicker tubes to make it acceptably steady.
Bookmarks