Need advice on which tripod to buy for off Alien Bees off camera flash

<p>Hi!<br>

Was interested in getting a new tri-pod. The one I currently have is too heavy (9.2 lb) for me to lug around at shoots. It is a manfrotto 3046 with 3047 3 way pan/tilt head. I do like the fact that it does reach up to 89" which has been ideal with large group shots.<br>

Am interested in a tri pod that would be able to hold an Alien Bee's - about 4 lb. (or the like) flash that is sturdy enough NOT to blow away in the wind (I shoot a lot at the beach) and yet has a tall reach and is not 9 pounds. Will sometimes shoot with diffusion on flash as well (softbox).</p>

<p>Does anything like this exist? Don't want to spend too much... (over $500)</p>

<p>Was looking at Bogen, but would be willing to consider others.</p>

<p>Thanks for your advice!</p>

<p> </p>

<p>I'm a little confused, are you looking for a tripod for a camera, or a lightstand for your alienbees? Generally you have two different screw sizes, so you should have two different types of stands.</p>

<p>I'm with Zach. Are you looking for a light stand or a camera tripod? On a typical light stand, you pan by simply pointing the light where you want it to go, and tilt using the tilt mechanism built into the mount that's part of the light.<br /><br />You can get all sorts of lights stands - from solid C-stands to lightweight aluminum ones of all shapes and sizes for well under $500. If you're going up as high as you mention, I'd want one with a fairly large footprint, and I'd consider using sandbags. Depends on the environment. You're not going to find a 4-pound light stand that's wind-proof. That's what sandbags or assistants are for!</p>

<p>Zach and Matt....<br>

ok, now I sound like an idiot no? Guess I'm looking for both. <br>

I need a good quality/strong (or sand bags/assistant) light stand for the the AB and then a tri pod that is tall enough, sturdy but does not have to withstand 'wind' issue for light. <br>

I normally use an assistant with my off camera flash (speedlights) but am hoping to move out of using one and using a stand/AB instead.<br>

Thx for advice</p>

<p>To be honest, in windy conditions, I haven't had much luck on stands staying up, especially in uneven surface conditions. I shoot with Manfrotto Stacker stands and Elinchrom Ranger Quadras. I use the packs to counter balance the relatively light heads. If I use the standard reflectors, I really don't have an issue. If I throw on anything bigger (beauty dish, umbrealla, softbox), they just become big sails. Overall, I am happy with the stackers as they are portable and easy to store.<br /><br />I am guessing you Alien Bees are monolights being powered through a Vagabond? Or have they released a battery system similar to the Rangers? If it is the monolights, they are going to make the stands very top heavy. There may be no replacing an assistant. Besides, my favorite stand is the one I learned from Chase Jarvis, The human powered stand. I have an assistant (ok, it's my girlfriend and I pay her by buying dinner and flowers), follow the subjects around and point the light. Works very nicely and fluidly. Makes the whole shoot just that much more simple.</p>

<p>As for lightweight tripods, I love my Benro Travel Angel. However, I do not think it will meet your needs in the height requirement area.</p>

<p>Thanks Zach. Yes, the monolights are powered through the mini lithium vagabond. Honestly, I'm now wondering if I should go to the Ranger system. Trying to determine which is best for my use. I like the fact that they are light in that you can have an assistant hold them up for a few hours (wedding/etc) with no issues at all. The AB's are heavier. <br>

Looks like I'll have to keep employing an assistant. I really like working solo, but for the right flash angle/etc. it makes a big difference in my photography. Never found a bracket that could replace a person :-)... unless you know of one?!<br>

Will check into the Manfrotto Stacker Stands. When you say you use the "packs" do you mean the packs that come with the Elinchrom system?</p>

<p> </p>

<p>The Ranger Quadras will be infinitely better in run and gun situations compared to the Bees. The weight and compactness makes them a great system. I have had usually good luck with the skyports, but they get finicky if the battery on the camera module is low.<br /><br />As for the "packs", yes, I meant the battery pack for the lights. I have two heads and two separate packs. I like this more than one pack and two heads, as it allows the lights to be placed any way you want.</p>

<p>As for brackets, I gave up on them. Willing to sell one, used only once, if you want it ;-)<br /><br />Oh, and I should add, the Quadras are great because the give off almost no heat. But, if you are shooting in a studio (I don't, so not an issue), I would recommend something plugged into the wall. Supposedly you can shoot these while plugged in, but I never have. </p>

<p>I don't understand why you can't use sandbags at the beach... Buy any decent lightstand that won't break and collapse on itself in the wind. Carry some sacks and a shovel, maybe also some string if it's especially windy.</p>

<p><a href="../photodb/user?user_id=425339">Indraneel</a> - Who said you couldn't?</p>

Avenger C-stand with a "mountain leg" which let's you adjust the height of one leg to adjust for uneven surfaces + a

couple of 25lb sandbags.

Alternatively a Lowel Grand Stand with sandbags. The problem is any moderately sized light diffuser is a big wind

catcher.