Manfrotto 725B Digi Tripod with Integrated Ball Head with Dove Tail Plate and Carrying Bag (Black) by Manfrotto
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Digital camera reviews of Manfrotto 725B Digi Tripod with Integrated Ball Head with Dove Tail Plate and Carrying Bag (Black)
Digital camera Review: Bogen-Manfrotto 725B Digi Tripod with integrated Ball Head
Summary: 4 Stars
I was looking for a lighter version of the Bogen 3021, which I use with a generic ball head. The 725b came the closest: 1) It has quick release leg locks, 2) a ball head with quick release base plate, and 3) it is 3.5 lbs lighter than my Bogen 3021.
I am 5'8" tall and I had to extend the 725b halfway up for horizontal shots and all the way up for vertical shots. Ideally, the tripod should not be extended for greatest stability. I mount a Nikon D70 with an 18-200 zoom lens. Even with the extension all the way up the stability was firm. I would use my 3021 if I were using the D70 with my 200-400 zoom lens. When shooting with a tripod, you should be able to look at the viewfinder standing straight up. Having to bend over to look at the viewfinder is uncomfortable. If you're taller than 5'8" tall you should consider a longer tripod.
Unfortunately, the 725b does not have a release to allow you to pan. There is only one release on the ball head. The extension lever, unlike my 3021, only allows you to move the extension up or down. If you shoot panoramas and want to pan on the exact plane, or if you plan to use it with a video cam, try finding a tripod that pans.
If you're using a full size ball head, the full size base plate may not fit the 725b. However, the 725b plate may fit the full size ball head.
While there is only a 3.5 lb difference, the 725b feels much lighter than the 3021. Carrying it is a breeze. It opens quickly, cameras can be mounted or released quickly and the ball head makes framing a breeze. I highly recommend this tripod if these are primary considerations. If you're taller than 5'8" tall, plan on doing a lot of panoramas, or mounting an extreme telephoto lens, I would not recommend this tripod.
Digital camera Review: Bogen-Manfrotto 725B Tripod
Summary: 5 Stars
It is just as good as what I learned from the reviews. It is light, but sturdy. Excellent for traveling. The features are sufficient for average photography need. Even though the instruction says it is for
light digital cameras. It is in fact good enough for my Nikon D200 with nikon 18-200 and 105 micro lens. It comes with a beautiful carrying case. The price is really reasonable. I am very happy with the product.
Digital camera Review: Bogen-Manfrotto 725B Tripod
Summary: 5 Stars
I purchased this lite weight tripod for travel. My only concern was its ability to hold my Nikon D200 with a heavy 17-55 Zoom lens and a 180 MM lite tele lens. It handles both with ease.
The tripod is easy to set up and take down, sturdy and goes high enough for me (and I'm 6' 2"). The mini ball head has a bit of downward creep with a heavy lens, but this is not a surprise.
All in all I consider this a good value and a quality piece of equipment.
Ciao.
Harry Campbell
Digital camera Review: By far, a true steal for a GREAT item!
Summary: 5 Stars
This item was recommended by my FLICKR group and it was well worth it. The cost is minimal yet the advantages are huge!
It also arrived very quickly and packed very well.
Digital camera Review: Excellent Travel Tripod for Pro-sumers/Professionals
Summary: 5 Stars
I love this tripod. I've given away my other travel tripod as this one is far and away better than all others I've had.
It is lightweight, easy to carry all day on your backpack (I don't recommend using the sling on the cover that comes with it, but have done it), and is FULL HEIGHT (at full extension it is over 5'10')!
Don't let the name "digi tripod" fool you, this thing is a real tripod. I use it with my D200 with heavy lenses (200 VR and 300 lenses). It takes a full load, and provides rock solid stability, even with hard mirror slap and a stiff breeze. I've taken shots of 30 second exposures with no shake with it.
The most advantageous thing about this tripod is that it can fit in your roll-aboard luggage. I use a standard 21" set for fitting in the plane overhead (Samsonite or TravelPro standard size). It will fit in a 19", though a bit snugly. This has opened all sorts of new options when I am traveling on business, and even when just heading out for a stroll for dinner.
There are 2 things any serious photographer should know, that aren't exactly clear in the description. I don't see these as impediments, but: 1) There is no panoramic head - it is pan and tilt free form (so your hand does all the work), 2) the head is not replaceable, you get the one that's on it (so you can't bring a panoramic spare if so inclined). It does come with a standard dove-plate, so you can use it in a variety of means (ie flash, fill light, etc).
If you would question what to take on a trip besides the camera, this tripod is it. In less than 6 months, I've had mine travel over 100,000 miles and on over 2 dozen shoots. It is an essential.