TRIPOD BUYING GUIDE
A tripod is an essential tool for many, but the choice can be overwhelming. Here we try to group the different styles of tripod to help you shortlist the models available from Vanguard.
TYPES OF TRIPOD:
At it's simplest, there are only four styles of tripod, then two sizes - "full sized", or "travel sized". At Vanguard we define a travel tripod as any tripod that folds up to 56cm or below based on the maximum height allowed for a bag in the IATA Hand Luggage Guidelines.
TRADITIONAL CENTRAL COLUMN
A great everyday tripod with a central column that goes up and down to adjust the height.
MULTI-ANGLE CENTRAL COLUMN
The most versatile solution that is great for additional styles like macro and product photography.
NO CENTRAL COLUMN
Removing the central column removes weight and delivers the most stable link to the legs.
Coming soon
LEVELLING CENTRAL COLUMN
Traditionally used by videographers, but also a great solution for landscape photographers on uneven terrain.
TRIPOD SPECIALISTS:
While any tripod will hold a camera steady, there are features in different models that make them particularly suitable for certain tasks. This doesn't mean that they can't be used for other styles, but helps create a shortlist based on use, along with some accessories that might prove useful.
LOW ANGLE, food, product & MACRO
Multi-angle central columns allow you to position the camera in the best position for your shot.
long lens
Longer lenses magnify movement, so tripods with larger leg diameters maximise stability.
CONTENT CREATORS
Easy levelling, long handles and the ability to attach accessories help unleash your creativity.
BIRDWATCHING
Long handles, especially with the tilt control in the handle, and non-twist quick release plates optimise control.
TRIPOD HEADS:
Here we summarise the different styes of Arca compatible heads available for Vanguard. All Vanguard heads can fit any tripod from any brand, but to get the best fit we'd recommend measuring the top plate of your tripod and choosing the style of head with the base diameter that offers the best fit.
TRIPOD ACCESSORIES:
While any tripod will hold a camera steady, there are features in different models that make them particularly suitable for certain tasks. This doesn't mean that they can't be used for other styles, but helps create a shortlist based on use, along with some accessories that might prove useful.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Here we try to address some of the common questions we get asked at shows. If you have a question that is missing, feel free to contact us at info@vanguardworld.co.uk
What is a "dual axis" head?
Almost every tripod head features an axis on the base that allows you to pan the head 360° to reframe a shot or take a panorama. A "dual axis" head (generally ball heads to date) features a second 360° axis under the quick release plate clamp. This allows you to set up and level your tripod on the most uneven terrain in seconds (you'd normally have to level by adjusting the legs), then use the top axis to reframe your shot or create a perfect panorama. It also provides a second axis of control for more delicate framing of a subject, such as macro or product photography.
What does Arca compatible mean and why is it important in a tripod head?
Historically, pretty much every tripod head from every brand had a dedicated quick release system with a dedicated quick release plate. In recent years, most brands are adopting an Arca compatible system as an unofficial industry standard. This allows you to use specialist plates from different brands and allows you to replace a lost or damaged quick release plate with ease, even if your tripod head is discontinued.
Will any Arca compatible plate from any brand fit any Arca compatible tripod?
While pretty much any Arca compatible plate will fit any Arca compatible head, there is no official industry standard and so there will be slight variations between quick release plates, so we would tend to recommend using the quick release plate officially linked to your head. The two most common issues are "width" and "safety pins". The clamping system will address most of the issues on width as it can cater for the differences, but this is why you do not see many quick release lever systems that are Arca compatible. The safety pins can be built into the base of the quick release plate, or into the tripod head clamp system with a spring pin system. If the pins on the base of the quick release plate are causing an issue, you can simply remove them. If the safety pin is built into the tripod head clamp system then most Arca compatible quick release plates will be fine. As long as there is a way of lower the spring pin manually on the head, as there is on any Vanguard Arca compatible head with this system, then the quick release plate won't get stuck. In either of the above cases, just take care to ensure the head is locked firmly before you release your camera as the safety mechanism built into the quick release plate will not be effective. If you are using a different brand's quick release plate, we would always recommend that you try in on the tripod head without the camera attached first to ensure it works.
What are better, lever locks or twist locks?
This tends to be a marmite style question with strong opinions on both sides, and ultimately it comes down to personal preferences. We often hear the same three objections to twist locks: they take too long to set up, if you unscrew them the leg will fall out and you can't see when the leg is closed. There is some truth in all of these, but often this is based on an individual's experience (actual or heard) from many years ago and simple techniques and modern designs get around each of these. The benefits of twist locks to us are less weight, a tight lock in the field without having to adjust any screws, and it's allowed us to develop an easy-clean twist lock system to maximise the life of your tripod.
Why do Vanguard names mean?
Vanguard's tripod names may look a little complicated, but they are all designed to help explain the product and, with a few exceptions, is pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. For example:
