[Rob Barron]

People seem to talk Velbons down but they make some excellent tripods. Yes they make cheaper ones too but that doesn't mean all their tripods are cheap and cheerful.

I have a Velbon Sherpa Pro CF641 EL. I am not suggesting this for Dave, it is way above the limit he has set but it is a cracking tripod.... well, not literally cracking LOL. It is carbon fibre so is very light but stronger than steel. The legs are 4-section so it collapses a bit smaller than normal but each leg is individually adjustable right up to 90 degrees so you can go for a very wide and stable platform in strong winds, weighing it down with the stone bag that hooks onto the centre column. The column is splittable allowing you to get right down low and also reversible so you can hang the camera upside down right down to ground level.

I originally had a Gitzo 3-way head but now I have replaced it with a Pistol grip ballhead which is FANTASTIC. I can't imagine ever using a 3-levered head ever again now I have this, it is truly the one bit of kit I would recommend to anyone.

I also have a Velbon mini which is excellent for its purpose. It can come up to over three feet and is very practical. I mostly use it for indoor macro work but it has come with me out into the countryside on occasions as I can usually find a rock or raised area to put the camera on if I need it. Weights very little so worthwhile having with me when I can't be bothered to carry my Sherpa Pro.

Let's be under no illusion though, a solid tripod with an accurate head is definitely worth investing in as they are often the difference between a soft image and a pin sharp one.

Cheers,
Rob