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One of the best revieuws of tripods by far. Well done.

So far i've been watching budget/sirui tripod videos and i couldn't decide but this videos has cleared most of my doubts, thank you i aprecciated this video saving me lots of time

@BayouJosh

Жыл бұрын

Glad it helped.

Thank you Josh. I have several and very seldom use them but I pack them everywhere.

I totally agree. Tripods drive me NUTS, but as you said they are necessary. Thanks for the useful info!

Excellent!

Good ideas. Thanks for taking the time to do it. I have had the same frustration with the latches on the Benro legs. I love their geared head though.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful!

I really like all of your videos and awesome content, thanks for sharing 👍👌

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

So nice of you Miguel. thank you for watching.

Good points! I like the fact that the tri goes to a mono…well thought out feature!👍

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Indeed.

My wife got me a Vanguard 263CB Tripod for my birthday and so far I am loving it. It is a little heavy but for versatility it can't be beat. I do a lot of macro work and the adjustable center column is amazing. There are several KZread videos on using it.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Vanguard makes great products! The oldest piece of camera gear I still have in my bag is an old vanguard tripod head. I’ve beat the crap out of that thing. Still works perfect. Has to be 10 years old now.

I have the ST 124. It is just superb. Sirui make superb, and price friendly gear. Thoroughly recomended.

Very interesting Joshua.

Hey Josh, great video as always, I have a monopod an a tripod sirui an I love it

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

They’re fantastic

I am a fan of SIRUI Tripods. I have the exact same model since last year. I love it.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Very cool!

i must be an odd duck🦆. I actually love tripods! I started my journey when asa 800 film was outrageously expensive and did not give the best results. So 400-speed film, a heavy tripod and some luck and you came back with awesome pictures. Now years later I use the tripod to get those crisp results I have grown to love. Thanks

your content is very informative and has given me some inspiration in to the hobby and its kinda made me realise where i should cut my budget and where i should spend my money for the hobby i would love to become more professional in time but for now i know where my money should be spent thanks for your hints and tips its made me re think my opptions

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching. I hope it was helpful. It’s an expensive hobby and it’s tough to prioritize what’s most important. 😀

Actually I was waiting for this video

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I hope it helped. 😀

@danivai777

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh ohh bro, it helped a lot

@danivai777

2 жыл бұрын

My dad is looking for one, and you just described all the scenarios he has been through. Specially the monopod and the ball head. Hahahahaha thanks for that video

Hi Josh, I bought this tripod last week and I agree that it's a nicely built unit. It was nice that Sirui provided a spare 4mm allen wrench, but they also added a 3mm wrench and I can't see any part on the tripod requiring that size. The hex tool that's part of the screw-on center column cap is also 3mm and I can't figure why they wouldn't have gone for a 4mm size to help with in the field leg and mounting plate adjustments. Maybe I'm just missing a detail. I did apply some bar soap on the threads so it doesn't make that annoying squeaking sound when I convert it to a monopod. BTW, instead of buying a separate monopod head I just flip the ball head 90 degrees into the slot and I can avoid situation where the camera flops around. Thanks for doing the video!

I clicked on this video because I like you, we have the same receding hair line, we are about the same age, we both enjoy photography, and we both have beards. 😎

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Are we brothers? 😄

@paulthevol

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh Possibly???

I second the wimberly monopod head I love mine!!!

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Awesome right?

@erichholton

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh I was using my regular gimbal head and a friend showed me the wimberly head I ordered one that day lol, super light and you were spot on with the ball head on monopod, doesn’t work, very aggravating.

I have two good tripods! I watch because I love your channel! You are just a regular guy😁. I am a recent F to Z mount convert and I noticed the Sony right away😂. I share and relate to your obsessive tendencies😅. My husband and I love birds and any other wildlife. He ends up carrying my camera bag. We are in Kentucky heading to Glacier first week of June!

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I’m so jealous that you’re going to glacier! Such an amazing place.

I have a FLM tripod that’s very similar in function to you’re sirui tripod (mine is a 36mm leg). I absolutely love the leg functionality. Tall and light. And with no center column and still 72 inches. you bring up great points in your video. And I think it’s easy to overlook the finer points on a tripod but they are actually very important out in the field.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

72" with no column. that's what I need. does it get super Low?

@brycepinson8641

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh so looking it up it’s actually 68.3” on my tripod. I’m about 6’3” and it works well for me 99% of the time. Mine is the FLM CP30-L4II (not the 36 I thought. I guess I need to look before I comment next time lol)… They do make a CP42-L4 that goes to 72” with no center column. Minimum working height on mine is stated to be 3.6 inches. I’ve not measure my tripod but that seems about right. I’m not out to push their products and have no association with them. I got this tripod and use it for about everything now. Only tripod I’ve every really enjoyed.

@Swindie

2 жыл бұрын

@@brycepinson8641 I am gonna look into this one! I’m 6’2” and like the look of this one but hate being hunched over. Never invested money into a nice tripod cause I e never knew where to start for my height! Thanks!

@georgedavall9449

Жыл бұрын

@@Swindie One word: ‘ROBUS’

Just received my sirui 284 after watching your mini review I was intrigued and was looking for a small travel tripod for an upcoming trip to Utah to try my hand at some landscape photography which is not my forte . “Yikes” but I’ll give it a shot. What a great little tripod so thanks for the great tip on some good gear.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

You’re welcome! It is a great little tripod. I was very happy with it. I’m in Alaska with it right now and it’s holding up great. Been beating the hell out of it to.

Excellent review, Josh. I've been through about 10 tripods, but have now settled into the iFootage TC9 Carbon with an RRS BH-55 for my R5, and a Peak Design Carbon for my R6 (for video). Love the "nice guy / starving artist" plea at the end. 😂

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I am not familiar with that Brand. I need to check it out. thanks for getting my sense of humor. for some reason, I get more excited about the $40 dollars I make from affiliate links than the Salary I make from work. senseless really. 😆

@PETERFRITZPHOTO

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh Nope - makes perfect sense. I was over the moon when I received my first $150 from Google/KZread!

Thanks for the info Josh. I enjoy reviews and learning about different kit. I’m still trying to figure out why I bought a tripod. Kidding aside, I have that exact Benro, and for what I use it for (not wildlife) it’s a great sturdy piece of gear. Specially if the wind is howling on the Palouse. I’m shooting with a Canon 100-400 L V2 on full frame for wildlife/birds and really enjoy the freedom of shooting free hand. In all cases I should probably reach for the tripod more often, but there is something to be said for running and gunning. All my best!

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I enjoy the freedom of shooting freehand as well that just doesn't work very well for video. I wish it did.

@jimtipton8888

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh Someday I’ll figure out how to shoot video :)

A simple pivoting head also works well on a monopod and has the advantage of putting the support directly under the load.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I’ve done that, nothing works as nice as the wimberly mono pod head. They nailed it.

My favorite use for my tripod is to set up aimed at a perch, nesting spot or subject and stand near the tripod with a remote trigger just relaxing and fire off a burst of shots as my subjects take off and land. I get beautiful wing positions and action shots and I don't have to hold or balance the camera at all. At my deckside bird feeding and photography area at home I can sit inside where it's cooler or warmer and look out the window and get my image bursts. Now if they will just add the pro capture feature to Sony and Canon cameras I'll be set!

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Damn. That’s brilliant.

I also ended up with the Sirui 284... after much research. I'm also a tall dude, so the max height concerned me, but getting flat was higher on the list and this tripod seemed to check all of the other boxes. I noticed they had an add-on stem (model SL-200); at $20 it was worth the gamble. It is... surprisingly solid. Adds around a foot with a 5" adjustment. Something to consider for folks that like the 284, can use the height and dont want (or have the space for) two tripods.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Interesting the add-on. I’m gonna look into that. Thanks for the info.

I just bought my first monopod the other day. I had intended to buy the wimberly monogimbal you mention but I have realized that you can get very similar performance with a standard ball head. Instead of using the ball head in the straight up position you let it fall over 90 degrees and rest in the "notch". It now functions identically to a wimberly head though it is not as smooth when panning up and down. Just thought it was worth noting for anyone who wants to try it out before buying a wimberly....

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I've seen people use it that way now that you mention it. great idea

Sirui makes a waterproof tripod, which I highly recommend to those who often shoot with tripod legs in water. Having wasted a small fortune on two Gitzo tripods that eventually locked up after being used in salt water, I found the Sirui, and couldn’t be happier with it after lots of use on both fresh and salt water. Never a single problem.

Hi Josh, great video and really interesting. About tripod for wildlife photography, now I'm using a Benro, like yours, but with the central column, and sometime is a pain in the neck, so when I'll be able to change it, I'll do it. The Sirui K20X ball head is good, but not perfect. I've been using that ball head for years in many different situations: wildlife photography, landscape photography, with tripod, with monopod... and after all it works, but it isn't so sturdy, so still when you close the knob. Maybe my item fault in some way, but it couldn't stay perfectly in the position I set, so I preferred to take another one, but only for landscape photography; for wildlife I'm still using a gimbal (photoseiki TB101), pretty heavy but super sturdy. 😜

Thanks for the comparison and thought process on the tripods. Now let's see it in action in the field! I enjoyed your earlier videos documenting your day, driving and stopping when you find inspiration, walking a fenceline, discussing your thought process and why the gear helped you get that incredible photo. I'm always looking for more info on what I would call bird photography "field methods". Like, what's your strategy for getting compelling photos in the field with your camera on tripod? Are you walking a known hotspot and set up the tripod when you come across a bird you want to photograph? What then- wait until a good composition presents itself? I struggle with either using a shoulder strap to carry my A7r3 and 200-600mm around (ouch) and deal with higher shutter speeds or go the "stop and wait" method with the camera+tripod. Maybe even carry the tripod in a backpack then pull it out when appropriate? So many options! Excited to hear how you succeed.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

thanks Daniel. those are my favorite videos to make. I have these dang gear companies that sent me stuff. I can't stand doing these gear reviews.

@danielknapp3267

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh Didn't know it was a #sponsored video, good on you for getting that recognition! I know you're out enjoying your new camera and lens, can't wait to see the next vid. Take care!

Hey Josh how convenient ! lol ....... just ordered the Manfrotto 608 Nitrotech Fluid Head with 645 FAST Twin Carbon Fiber Tripod yesterday. Will find out what it's all about but looks super easy to set up. Have a few others from Manfrotto and Peak Design. Can never have to much gear! Thanks for sharing ...... have a great day !

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Fancy!

@davidmotisko4552

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh lol

Hey Josh,, I’ll admit I clicked on this video just because I like ya…. LOL. I’m very happy with my ProMediaGear tripod.. Yes it’s a hassel to haul it around, But nice for tack sharp shots..

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

ProMedia gear is fantastic.

Josh, thanks for the video and suggestions. I like the Wimberley tri pod head and will put it in my buy list so when I get approval from my financial advisor (Wife) I will be purchasing it to replace my cheapo gimbal I bought which drives me crazy in the field. I too when I first got my big heavy Sigma 600mm lens on my D5600 put it on a monopod with a ball head. Never try that again, it almost hit the ground, not cool.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Good choice!

Very nice points. You start realizing these things once you use these products. I recently got a Benro TMA37AL. Initially I started with the same 3 points in mind (you mention in the beginning) . But soon realized after watching a few videos the convenience factor would be important for me. But then I had no other option as I wasn't able to find a tripod at $200 with the feature set. If I had a higher budget my next option was Sirui... Or something higher up in benro... The new benro mach 3's come with am extra small Centre column so you can get lower to the ground... Not completely flat, like some other offerings from Benro, RRS, Gitzo...

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

One thing I love about benro is they have a great selection between 200 and $400. Probably the best selections For wildlife photographers.

@mzeeshanch

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh I would agree 100% I personally couldn't find any tripods that could take a heavy load, open up till 5ft 10 (my height) and be rock solid, in the $200 price point, other than benro...

Thanks Josh, some interesting points made. I already have 4 tripods so really need another one like a hole in the head!!! I actually have one primarily for video - a Libec with a Manfrotto fluid head, a Benro Travel Tripod which is very light but ideal for holidays as it folds up so small I can get it in hand-luggage, however, I wouldn't use it for any heavy lenses. Great though, for low-light long exposures when using something like a 24-70. My main stills tripod is a Manfrotto carbon 055 model with a choice of heads. Overall I love this unit (as far as anyone can love a tripod) BUT, it does have one serious (for me) drawback - it has a central column. This, of course, means you cannot get the camera really low even with the legs spread out - or so I thought!! Earlier this year I found there is a way - a bit difficult to explain but you can pull the centre column all the way up and then turn it 90 degrees to be horizontal. I tried this out and felt I had it sussed then, back in March when my wife and I were on a photo shoot in Scotland and on a beach shooting rock-pools, I went to set this up, pulled the column up to turn it through the 90 degrees and the assembly fell apart with very small pieces falling into the sand!!!! Fortunately I was able to recover all the bits and put it back together later that evening in the hotel room but it has left me VERYT nervous of trying this again. A friend with a similar model told me he had exactly the same experience. The next pod I buy (not on the immediate shopping list) will definitely not have a centre column. But, hey-ho, you only learn by trying things or - of course, listening to someone like you Aho has already had these experiences!!! Thanks again.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

That does not sound like a fun experience. I'm not kidding about that AM284 Surui. it is my go to Low angle tripod. No center column and the legs go out a true 90 degrees. It is so sturdy. If it was about 15" longer, I would get rid of that big ass Benro tripod.

@SwanSycorax

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh One thing I have found out is that SIRUI tripods are available in the UK via Amazon, but are not, as far as I can determine, stocked or supported by any of the leading photographic equipment suppliers. I am happy buying low-cost items and accessories via Amazon, but when it comes to expensive equipment I want to go and look, touch, feel and try items before parting with scarce cash.

You can do the same thing with the ball head. There is a cut in one side.

JOSH-- Nice video kinda comical but your nature is always on Good Humor side! And yes I watched it cuz I like you! Randy Bocksnick(MT)

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Just me rambling in front of the camera. Thanks Randy.

I bought a very similar Tripod. The W2204 legs (I think they are just the water sealed version of yours), and A K20 head. Love the legs (although I do see that the part where the legs meet do look a bit weak. I bought it for roughly the same reasons.... but the other one is travel. The W2204 for the height, folds inverted, at just the right size to fit in a carry-on. I have swapped out the head for a Flexshooter... which is kind-of a ballhead gimbal head combo. Big fan of that....

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

It is a great travel kit. I need to check out that Ball head.

I have the Sirui 2204 but have just bought the Sirui R-3213X Bayou with the VH-10 x Video head for travel ! I have the big boy 5 series legs but I am enjoying the 1KG less weight ! Check this one out for video I love the Sirui range ! You can’t get enough support !

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

They make great products

As a bag-packer the only possible option for me was Peak Design's Travel one. I can wear it pretty much in every bag. Might be pricey but it's worth it. The only thing that I might add eventually is a gimbal head 🤠

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Those are great little tripods

I have a Leofoto Ranger tripod. It’s great, really functional, reasonably priced, carbon fibre. Decent height I’m over 6ft tall and it works. Will go flat to the ground as well. Their bullheads are really well built also.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Very nice!

@eliasneil

2 жыл бұрын

Good to hear, I was thinking about getting one. Have you used it on the field a lot?

@BryceJ82

2 жыл бұрын

@@eliasneil absolutely. I’ve owned it for close to 2 years. Overall this is a brand I would stick with.

Sirui is my travel, Benro my 'Big and Tall', and the one inbetween is also a Benro (Carbon Fiber). I have far too many tripods that I've collected over the years - but find those 3 to be my "go to" ones. There's so many uses for tripods, I don't think any "ONE" is going to fit every need. I also have a Vanguard Pro+ I got years ago - solid choice at a good price. I'm not in a position to spend over a grand on a tripod - I'll let the pro fill that market. And while I do have some ball-heads - they're not my first choice usually. Good video Josh - TY.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I think 3 tripods is the right amount.

I have a FLM CP34-L4ii with a leveling head and a Benro GH2 gimbal head that I use when I set up in a static location. Like a blind. If I'm moving around I use a Cobra 2 C150-II monopod with a Wimberly MH-100 head. The MH-100 is so easy to carry around and I adapted to the camera being off center in no time. I highly recommend it. The FLM tripod is very similar to the ones you have. You can get them from B&H for about $730.00. The Cobra monopod was designed for video but works great for stills. It has a mini tripod foot with a ball joint that makes setting up on uneven ground a breeze. Just my take on support gear. As always your videos are superb. Sorry to hear your so poor now but that's what you get for buying a Z9 then switching to Sony a short time later.😂😂😂😂

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I’ve heard great things about the FLM tripods.

interesting video and your thought process. I have the Benro tripod you talked about (or one darn close to it) and the thing works and is a tank. Problem is I just absolutely hate carrying a tripod along with me. I don't have the patience to stand in one spot more than 30 minutes or so before I want to move on.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I would not be carrying it at all if I didn’t do video. I’m with you.

@JeffandLeslie

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh I can see where it is a must for video. I'm still about 90% still vs. video but am shooting more and one reason I don't shoot more is lugging around more equipment. I'll get there some day Im sure.

Good stuff to consider and great points you brought up! I can relate, my stupid butt decided to do KZread haha, if not for that, I'd probably only use a tripod 5-10% of the time for actual photographs haha.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Right? Are we gluttons for pain?

@KevinNordstrom

2 жыл бұрын

If it wasn't for the vlogging tripod, I'd consider bringing the wildlife one I use more often. I find myself handholding more often even for video. Which is why my footage looks like it got drunk on 19 cups of coffee. I tried a wheelbarrow which made my back and shoulders happy, but only worked for two trips then I was like nope. This won't work unless it's on pavement lol. It's a love hate relationship I'm just to lazy to bring it out more often. I got too much crap in the field. Lol.

@JeremyNeipp

2 жыл бұрын

Kevin Nordstrom haha a real struggle 😂

There are quite a few good tripods. I have gone to a couple of promediagear tripods, and use their small and big gimble. I still use some older heavier glass. I also love their monopod and monopod head. The promediagear monopod head is the best design I have found (that is a personal choice). I really like that the promediagear has 1/4-20 threads on the apex, and a video monitor/recorder screws into the 1/'4-20 on orange tangerine arm with quick disconnect (I am 6'5" so use a tall tripod)

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I’ve never seen that mono pod head. I’ll have to check that out.

@michaelschneider9710

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh There is always a personal preference choice between several good ones, here is promediagear video. All of their products are manufactured in Tinley Park USA kzread.info/dash/bejne/aY6nk9d_crWxmpM.html

I clicked for reason #1 but stayed for the joke. Good gear. I love my iFootage tripod and monopod but I think that monopod head you mentioned sounds like a potential add. Cheers

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

😂 I figured this will be my least viewed video ever. I get so many people asking about these tripods though. Thanks Chris. I appreciate it my friend.

The Sirui Rep told me that the way to say it is "Hoo Ray for Soo Ray"

Good info. Question though about the leg wraps on the larger one, I assume its for comfort while you have it on your shoulder. What are they though?

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

yep. comfort. 2" pipe insulation with Camo tape. You can buy the camo tape in the description of this video. 😀

Sandy and I use the [pro]master SP528 with the SPH45P ball head. I like them but they have the flip levers on the legs which is quite a pain when folding them back up. I will be checking out those Sirui products.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

They do make good stuff.

I’m Tripod poor. Don’t keep buying cheap. It cost more in the long run. Invest in the best up front and it will last you a lifetime. Good talk brother.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I keep buying Middle of the line stuff. I honestly can't bring myself to spend $1500 on a tripod when my $250 benro and $325 Suriu has worked just fine. I do need to try out one of those top of the line tripods one day just to see what all the fuss is about.

Thanks for the hint on the wimberly monopod head. I've been using a Siuri tilt head for a while, and it drives me crazy because the arca plate needs to be tightened down ALL THE TIME or it wobbles :(

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

That Wimberly is fantastic!

I've been eyeing the Innorel RT90CG for quite some time. I have the oak design travel carbon fiber tripod which is awesome but I want something for non- travel that is more sturdy. Getting the additional center post will be a good option along with the telephoto long focus lens brackets from innorel. In going to use those brackets with my gimbal (Benro PL100LW with GH5C plate ) as opposed to a video/fluid head.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I don't know that brand. I need to check it out.

@spidersj12

2 жыл бұрын

*peak design travel tripod.... damned predictive text!

I have a bunch of tripods that are aluminum and carbon which have twist and lever tighteners. All kinds of heads. None of them are perfect. I like and dislike specific things about each of the tripods. I hate that my back hurts now because I was carrying around one of my older super heavy telephoto lenses yesterday photographing a allusive fawn. I like the idea of the mono pod head you showed. Maybe you should consider creating a cart to carry your gear? You could adapt a golf cart or beach cart to carry stuff. I took a type of shopping cart that you can buy at a big box store and I installed bigger wheels on it so I could pull it over things like logs or through mud. I had to change a couple things to make the larger wheels work but it was pretty cheap to make. It folds up for storage. I got the idea while photographing birds at a lake. A couple had a similar cart with small wheels for their fishing gear. The possibility of usage would depend on where you are going. But would be nice when possible to use.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

That is a great Idea about the cart. I've seen some guys out in the parks with those carts. I use my truck as a cart and the mountain trails I'm hiking would certainly not accommodate a wagon. I just need to suck it up. 😄

What a coincidence, I recently moved over to Sirui. I had spent a good deal of money on an Induro CT313 (471-313) carbon fiber tripod and a BHL 3 ball head. The head seized to the point it cannot be used and I struggle to open the legs and once I do, despite twisting the locks, two legs creep as soon as any weight is applied. The bubble failed after the first use and replacement soon failed. It now stays in the bag. I agree with you, Sirui tripods are well made and, well they just work. No fuss. Quick to open and adjust, which makes using a tripod more enjoyable. As enjoyable as they can be....

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Goodness gracious. So you're saying you don't recommend Induro Tripods. 😆

@AdrianW_photo

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh Based on my experience, I would avoid them. Of course, I realize mine may have been an isolated experience. Induro customer service wanted to up sell me to a new ball head. I replaced with RRS BH 40 and later purchased the Sirui tripod.

Useful comments and interesting 👍🏼 I think the lovely Katie needs to check your scripts adding in pronunciation and prices, we know she can do this 😂 she’s a good lass!

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

😄 She definitely knows better.

I have a hard time finding a tripod that I can use at eye level (I am 6’4”). I have the benro monopod with the wimberly mh100 and that works when I need to use it. I hand hold 95% of the time, but I am looking to use a tripod more, although not a fan of sitting still, much like yourself. I typically am moving around a ton. I did just purchase Sirui gimbal (it should be arriving today) to use with my groundpod. With summer approaching, I will be using the groundpod a lot for shorebirds.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Those ground pods are fantastic

@bassangler73

2 жыл бұрын

I have the same trouble and went with the Benro as well

There are two types of people in this world. Lever lock and Twist lock. I am a lever lock person. Quick and easy and visual feedback. To each is own. After wasting many dollars on tripods I found the iFootage line. I have been real happy with that brand.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I’ve had a couple of lever lock tripods. They just lose the tightness every few months. Always adjusting it. That’s just been my experience. Maybe I need to buy a better one next time.

Hey Josh, you are a true photographer, buying photography gear before shoes and feeding your family.... Ha. Now without pulling back the curtain to much... how do you handle using two tripods? One for shooting and one for the video camera setup? I am with you tripods suck! 😝 Greg

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Let me just say it’s not very graceful. I get tired thinking about it. But it sure is fun making pretty videos. I especially regret the horrible footage I get without the tripod.

i need a sirui tripod that'll hold my 5d + 400mm 5.6 for wildlife and I also have a 70-200 for landscapes. Bayou Josh, what can you recommend me?

I can attest to what can happen with a cheap, unstable tripod... cost me my a7RIII and Sony 100-400 GM in one fell swoop. Had to have them re-built for not much less than what I paid for them brand new. Don't skimp out. You don't need to spend a grand for a Really Right Stuff tripod, but don't get the el-cheap-o Amazon special like I did. I ended up going with a Vanguard Alta Pro 2 with a BH-100 ball head. Best tripod I ever owned. It has a center column, but you can pull it out the whole way and pivot it on its side so you can still get the legs right on the ground. I'm partial to Vanguard, Sirui, or Leofoto for tripods that are good but won't bankrupt you either. That all said, I've given up on tripods for wildlife and use them only when shooting landscape. Just too unwieldy to carry around. I went with a dedicated monopod and a "moneymaker" style leather sling/shoulder strap to carry them when walking around. The Sirui P-326 with a Leofoto monopod head. Absolutely love it. Completely changed my wildlife photography game. Worked flawlessly with the 100-400GM, 200-600 G and the few times I got to shoot with my uncle's 400 2.8 and 600 f/4. I swear I don't work for any of these companies, I just like their products lol.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

That is an excellent point. I totally agree that you should not skimp out. If I were not carrying two tripods everywhere I went I would certainly be on a mono pod. Got to make pretty videos though

Hi I would like to ask if this tripod has a locking mechanism for the attachment of a gimbal head to the tripod , to make sure the gimbal doesn’t unscrew from the tripod while I’m walking

Great tripod deep dive! Due to a balance disorder, I use a ski pole as a walking stick when out in the field. I've been searching high and low for a monopod that can also function as a walking stick, but have yet to find anything approaching that kind of double duty. My gear gets about as heavy as a Nikon body and a Nikon 200-500 lens. The walking stick has no large weight support requirement because it is just for balance. Are you aware of any such monopods that I should consider? Thanks for any help in advance.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I am not sure you are going to find one that works perfectly for both situations. However, I have used a monopod in the past to keep balance while crossing streams.

For photographers on a budget, I use the Innorel rt90c with their 52mm BH and VH. For $350 it's a tank and takes a beating. But like you........I hate tripods lol. Good video man.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

That’s a good price point for sure. That’s kind of a sweet spot. Much lower than that and the tripods are too cheap. Anything more than that and you really don’t see a huge improvement in quality.

@KevinNordstrom

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh I agree. I made the mistake a few times of buying cheap $100 ballpark tripods. I have a Vanguard that is $199. But that's my vlogging set up. For wildlife with heavy gear, yeah I agree nothing less than 300 bucks. Which is still cheap when you see they go up to 1,000 bucks lol.

I've purchased and sold more tripods that I care to admit, but what I've learned is that the most expensive brands absolutely perform the best. That doesn't mean everyone needs to spend the big bucks to get the last ounce of performance -- there are many excellent, less expensive options for less demanding needs. FWIW RRS is my number one choice.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I’ve handled those really right stuff tripods and the Gitzo tripods. They are fantastic without a doubt. But holy cow, so expensive.

@garfieldirwin

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh True, but IMO they're worth it for the most demanding work. I recently purchased and returned a Leofoto series 3 for video work. I've owned Leofoto in the past found it to be an excellent tripod for stills for the price. But when I compared it directly with my RRS Series 2 24L, it fell short in terms of stiffness. Quite noticeable. It all boils down to one's needs I guess. BTW, love your channel!

That affiliate outro LOL

I have the Benro tripod you use, its a beast... But yes, its a big and heavy thing! is the Sirui MT-2204 just as stable? or do you still use the Benro for your "big" gear? I would love to get some lighter but still very stable.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I only use the 2204 with my video gear. It’s very stable but not tall enough for my big lens. That’s the problem I run into is replacing the benro for a tripod that’s light enough and tall enough. I have used the other smaller tripod on the ground a lot with the big lens. It works great.

@Jimmiehammarstrom47

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh i see! well, if either one of us find something to replace the benro with, that would be great!

Thanks for the recommendation Josh. If you’re good, maybe Katie will let you use her 100-400 GM once in a while to return to the days of innocence ! You two together have everything you need. Good work brother !😀🌈🐿🕊🌸

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Robert. We are addicted to making these videos. she like videoing me with her 100-400. 😀

Is this the mt 2204 or the w2204? I can’t find the mt 2204 on Sirui website

It's good equipment. However, I have an even better one and I highly recommend the tripod: Rollei Rock Solid Beta Mark II. Why in my subjective opinion is better? The answer compared to the model advertised here: A similar price, it is also carbon, weighs less by 270 g, higher lifting capacity -25 kg max (Sirui 12 kg max)., Working range: 22-174 cm vs (Sirui from 52 to 145 cm ). Robust and reliable! In my opinion, Rollei is the winner. I also recommend a very good product for the tripod Benro GH5C carbon head. I recommend it to all lovers of nature photography.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I never heard of that brand. I need to check that out. Thanks for the recommendation.

Purchased the W 2204 on eBay for very good price. Put my Manfrotto fluid head on it and found i don't need to fully extended the last legs. So far checks all my boxes - but NOTE one BIG issue - for some reason the feet screws are not a standard size - they are 10m with 1.0 threads !!! Yikes no standard spikes, claw feet etc will fit -EXTREMELY disappointed. Only the very small included spikes fit

sirui has other variants of the 2204. like the R 2204. would they be as good?

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Yes however, the carbon fiber versions are certainly my preference.

I have a Sirui dry cabinet and a monopod. Broke it apart. Eventually i need a decent tripod, which one do u recommend?

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I think the biggest thing with tripods is to get one that’s thick. I would not buy a tripod under 20 mm leg diameter. My biggest tripod is a 47 mm leg diameter and the other two are over 22 mm. All very sturdy.

I've got a older Manfrotto Tripod (Carbon Fiber) that weighs about 8.2 Lbs and built like a tank, purchased a Travel Tripod (Peak Design) for the size/weight savings and fits into a bag so its about the size of a small collapsed umbrella, carbon fiber, great design but not as functional as the beast and can be a bit wobbly when fully extended (the last section of legs are pretty thin). But something that makes travel a breeze, now I just need money to travel.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

oh Jeffrey, if it wasn't for time and money, we'd just do whatever we wanted to do right?

@selectiveimagery

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh Absolutely, waiting for that lottery money but as they say , "You can't win if you don't play", I fall into the don't play category most of the time.

Tripods and can of worms should be categorised in the same sentence. There's so many options. Yes, I could do with a new one, one day-ish. The thing is, I need to go to a camera shop and physically try them, feel them and maybe not go quite as far as caress them but ...........yeah, it has to feel right as well as being functional. Surely it's not much to ask for, a company to make the ultimate tripod without wanting me to sell my other kidney, I'm down to one as it is, for all my Sony stuff. Have fun, regards, Mark.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I totally understand your need to feel a tripod. It kills me that we do not have a camera store within 100 miles of Boise Idaho. Somebody needs to open one. Seriously.

I think you should do a, how to choose the right camera video.. LOL

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I am working on another one.

@IAmR1ch

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh Yeah. let your wife choose :)

When you replaced your 600 (or 500, can't remember) with the 500 PF I could not understand your decision and wondered how long it would take you to go back to a 600 f4 and tripod. Now I know :) There is a place where handholding is the right thing to do, and when a smaller lens is useful, but I don't think anything will replace a 600 f4 (or a 400 f2.8 if you don't show just birds).

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Indeed! That’s 600 F four is just special. Undoubtably they go to Lynn’s for bird photography. And unfortunately, if you want to do video you need a tripod. I could hand hold that Sony 600 mm all day. It’s very light. Much lighter than the old Nikon 200-400 f/4 I used to have

Try RRS and forget about it. I bought Manfroto, Benro, Surui and Gitzo, and none of them is compared with the ReallyRightStuff. Expensive? yes ! The best in the market ? Also yes.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

It’s definitely the best. No denying that.

I got myself a Sirui R-4213X last year for my 500 f4. I'll be damned if I'll ever have to buy another tripod again in my life. 😂

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Right on

I got sucked into the marketing hype and got the peak design travel. After trying it for some time I can safely say it’s crap-Spindly little legs and not stable enough for a dslr and 150-600mm lens. I do have a Sirui (sew-ray) monopod though and it’s built really well. I’m in the market for a sturdier tripod and was also looking at a number of Sirui’s options.

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I just keep going back to that brand because I’ve never had a problem with them. I had a manfrotto that did not do very well. Like I said, the surui Pro pods are built like a little tanks. And they’re light.

I like you

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I like you too.

@amaimani

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh thank you ☺️

@katanaphoto

2 жыл бұрын

You need to try our ProMediaGear tr344L made in USA here in Chicago suburbs. Contact me if you are interested we can send you one to test drive.

@amaimani

2 жыл бұрын

@@katanaphoto can I try and test your promediagear here in Oman. I do have yor katna jr gimbal and love it

I was Just watching for reason no 1 😅

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

You are very kind! I figured there wasn’t a huge group of people out there dying to watch a tripod video.

@hanscapiau

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh to be honest, I am a happy Soeseosoro (sirui) user. Both macro and bird photography.

I seem to have collected more tripods than The War of the Worlds movie… I’m thinking there is no such thing as a perfect tripod, they all have their uses in different situations. That’s why you need 10 or more. 😂👍🇬🇧

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Ain't that the truth. 10 though? Mercy!

HI, Pay no attention to the spelling. Sirui is pronounced Sue-Ray. I work with the Canadian Sirui importer and that is the official pronounciation.

I keep ending up watching gear videos despite not being able to afford any of it! :)

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I do it all the time brother. I just watched a video about a $12,000 video camera this morning that I will never buy. So fun.

@naturebydavidm

2 жыл бұрын

@@BayouJosh HAHA, I watched a video about lenses between 10,000 and 20,000 USD today. ;)!

Wait a minute…. Didn’t you just say ‘alright, no more gear talk!’ In the last video? Hope the channel doesn’t devolve into just another ‘gear’ channel

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

I hate doing these videos. I have commitments to a couple of companies that sent me stuff. I am doing those and never accepting another product again.

According to Sirui it's pronounced Sue-ray btw (I'm sure I'll forget and butcher it)

Please don’t become just another gear focused channel 🙏🏻

Do we need to send you care packages? I have tin boxes I can fill with chocolate chip cookies if you need food. It's sad to see someone being dragged down by their addiction and starving as you obviously are. Hang in there.... I am thinking about starting a group, PAA, to help with chronic GAS disorder; B&H offered to lend us their back storage room for our meetings but I'm not sure that's wise... :-)

@BayouJosh

2 жыл бұрын

Hi, my name is Josh....And I have GAS! Sign me up. I need it. 😆

@angelawilkins3624

2 жыл бұрын

😂