What tripod head for landscapes?

DorsetDude

DorsetDude

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Keith
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Hi all

Been looking at 3 types of tripod head, all manfrotto at the moment but happy to consider others.

the 460MG Magnesium one
496RC2 ball head one and
804RC2 pan/tilt.

Is there a "best" type for landscapes? Are those 3 good models?

How do you go about setting the camera to portrait format with those heads? Will they all tilt over 90 degrees to allow it?

Of those types, is there any movement after youve positioned your camera and lens to frame up your shot and then tighten up the 'screws' and let go the camera? What I dont want is to end up having to try and guess the movement tightening up the 'screws' will cause and allow for that whilst framing up. :bang:

Probably pair it with either a 190 or 055 carbon fibre tripod, want a lightweight set up if I can.

Thanks for any thoughts.
 
I have the Manfrotto 410 (this one) on a 055 but not carbon fibre. I find it great for landscapes and it is simple to convert to portrait.

I'm very pleased with it but have no experience of those in your list. There is a great difference in weight 1.2kg for the 410. It is heavy but stable.

Hope this helps.

Ken
 
Last edited:
Of the three you listed Ed, I would go for the 804RC2 Pan n Tilt head as this type of head offers greater control in framing. I'd definitely pick a Pan n Tilt over a ballhead the latter of which I consider to be the work of the devil.

My only misgiving about the 460MG is that its' load capacity is only 3kg

I've read good reports on the 410 ( load capacity 5kg ) but of course it's nearly 3x the price of a 804RC2.


My 2c

Hope you find the one you're looking for

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hi
if you are considering a 804RC2 Pan n Tilt head at £56 from Amazon

I would suggest you look at the Giottos 5001 head
i just bought one from Euan on here and am impressed
i have a Manfrotto 055 tripod
just got it yesterday so cannot offer an analysis but the built quality is excellent
with well designed features
on Amazon for £36
 
I had the 460. Only used it once. It moves when you tighten the screws.
I then got the 410. It's perfect for Landscapes.
Bought the 460 because of the price of the 410....lesson learned. Buy right, buy once !
 
Houston1863 said:
Of the three you listed Ed,
Click to expand...

Ed? :thinking:

Thanks for the input guys. Seems if money and weight no object the 410 is the most stable one.

Otherwise pan and tilts less likely to "move" on tightening up.

Does the Giottos Pan/Tilt one flip over 90ø ok?

Cheers all.
 
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