Can someone explain Tripod Terms?

I am thinking of buying this as my first tripod. VEO 2 204AB

 

Can someone explain what Independent Pan Lock, Friction Control, Multi Angle Central Column mean?

 

Thanks

 

:)

This model does not include an Independent Pan Lock, which would allow you to control and release/lock rotation of the head independent from the ball lock. For me, I would not buy a head which does not include this feature. Friction control allows you to set a fixed level of friction on the ball head, so you can set precisely the level of resistance that will hold your camera+lens combination in position, while still allowing you to reposition without releasing the ball. A Multi-Angle Central Column allows you to set the central column at various angles relative to the tripod top fitting (Oben offers some of this type, among others). The most common types only set the central column normal (perpendicular) to the top fitting. Unless you are doing severe angle or highly specialized macro or still life photography this feature is not needed.

 

I have a Vanguard tripod and head, and they are fine for what they are, but certainly not top end. Vanguard offers a number of models you might also consider, including models with both pan lock and friction control, which I recommend. You might also consider buying the tripod and ball head separately. This is a higher-end solution, but allows one to purchase exactly the combination of features you want. It's tempting to buy a low-end tripod to start, but you will quickly wish you had spent a relatively small increased budget to have a fully functional model. After using my Vanguard for a few years I upgraded to a Calumet knockoff of a high-end Gitzo model, which I love. Sadly, Calumet no longer operates in the US. You will want a tripod which is tall enough that you can look directly through the viewfinder without crouching, and without extending the center column more than a few cm. You've not said what type of photos you will be making, which could have a significant impact on recommendations for a tripod and head combination.

Also weight? My choices will vary depending on how far I have to lug the thing and how heavy a camera/lens setup I'm going to support. I like a traditional head with separate angle controls. Then you have attachment- some like quick release plates, some don't.

There are so many variables here that nearly everyone will have different needs. It's like trying to buy underwear for someone else.

 

For me, two parameters are critical - (1) enough height so I don't have to bend over to use the tripod and (2) steady enough to mount up to 1500 mm lenses.

If I get these, I can't also have 'light weight' and 'cheap'.

 

As Katherine Hepburn said

 

You can't have it all-you have to make choices-win here, lose there.