This is what I use along with a leveling base:
https://www.amazon.com/Leofoto-LS-22.../dp/B07GKKB416
I've been using it for a couple months and really like it. The legs can splay at almost flat, and the whole thing is just exactly like a normal tripod, but short. I love the leveling base especially.
I used it once to have a 4x5 Speed Graphic so low the front drop bed was literally submerged in water on the beach. Can't really do that any other way easily. My normal tripod can flip the head to be upside down but it's a real PITA to get setup.
For transport, it has a little 1/4 20 bolt attachment on the side of the head, and I basically made a little bolt on a chain with a loop for a carabiner. Then I just attach it on my backpack.
Unfortunately the model w/ leveling base built in seems to have been discontinued.
Thanks Corran! Sounds like the ideal solution. I agree about flipping the centre post upside down...PITA! ...and it doesn't address tight situations. For $99, this is an easy decision. The levelling base is not an issue either as a mini-leveller is always in my case.
Amazon has the levelling base version under a different model name: https://www.amazon.com/Leofoto-LS-22.../dp/B0844H8QNK. It costs more, $150. B&H sells the levelling base version, and the flat top version with a ball head.
Most tripods with levelling bases and half balls use a common standard, which may come originally from the Gitzo Systematic series. The parts from the various manufacturers tend to be interchangeable. This can matter if you want the option later of changing out between a levelling base and flat base or using a video head. If this matters, it would be worth checking out whether the same can be done with Lefoto's Ranger tripods.
Ah, there it is. My original purchase link gave me an error and a few days ago I had seen it was out of stock so I thought maybe it had been discontinued.
I assume that model and the standard $99 model use a 3/8 screw to mate to most standard heads/bases. Mine has the Lefoto-branded but Arca-type QR attachment/plate which I wanted to mate with my Arca-compatible stuff (though it ended up not quite conforming to the Arca standard).
The Berlebach Mini-Tripod looks good for what you want: https://www.berlebach.de/en/?bereich=details&id=249.
Tripod-head with diameter 76 mm = 3 inches
Weight: 0,68 kg = 1.50 lbs.
Packed length: 26 cm = 10 inches
Minimum height: 5 cm = 2 inches
Maximum height: 36 cm = 14 inches
Load tolerance: 15,00 kg = 33.07 lbs.
Vibration damping: very good
For a temporary low to the ground solution I once screwed the QR base to a piece of 2x6x12. It was a little too short so I stacked it on top of another 2x6 scrap.
The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.
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