Friday, August 1, 2008

Review: Bogen-Manfrotto BO 190XDB with 484R Ball Head

I just returned from an awesome camping trip to Southern Utah, Bryce Canyons and Zions National Park and just to make sure I can get some awesome shots, I bought a tripod to use when I get there. My best friend recommended that I get the Manfrotto BO 190XDB with 484R ball head. I paid approximately $130 from B&H photo and I'm very satisfied with is overall.

The legs are very sturdy and lightweight (3.5 lbs) at the same time and also the legs are independently adjustable so they are great for leveling on uneven surfaces. This is the first time I've ever used a ball head and it took time to get used to. I didn't think about this when I bought is but it is much harder to do landscape photos with a ball head since you cannot independently make horizontal rotation without affecting the vertical shift. I would say that was the only down side with the head.

For the legs, the only downside I can think of is the locks for the legs. Instead of the common quick release lock, BO 190XDB uses screw lock, which means you have to screw and unscrew every time you want to release the legs. Although this is disadvantageous, it was very easy to release the legs and worked very smoothly .

Overall, I would definitely recommend this tripod to anyone who is looking for a solid tripod for a good price value. I'm hoping to do a video review on this tripod so check back again sometime soon!

Pictures from Bryce and Zions





Taking panoramic shots at Bryce Canyon's Fairyland Loop (left and below right)


















On top of Angels Landing in Zions. Because it was soo windy up there I had to weigh down the tripod with my backpack. (left and below right)

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