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Tripod and flash suggestions

Old Apr 11, 2009 | 03:08 PM
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Default Tripod and flash suggestions

Alright I'm happy with my camera and lenses (Nikon D40, 18-55 kit, 55-200 VR, 50 f/1.8 ) so now I think it's time to invest in a new tripod and a flash. I do alot of studio and night type photos so the cheap $20 tripod I have now isn't cutting it anymore and I've never had an external flash before.

For the tripod I was hoping to get something very sturdy and easy to use, weight isn't too much of an issue and I kinda wanted to keep it in the price range of $50-$100. I know I'm not gonna be able to get the best for this price but are there any decent ones available or should I just deal with the one I have now until I can spend more?

As for the flash I'm completely lost haha, I kinda wanted to find a cheap slave just to learn with, maybe around $35, or again I guess I could hold off until I can spend more on a speedlight or something. So what do you guys suggest? Thanks
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Old Apr 11, 2009 | 05:32 PM
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Dont get any tripods from best buy or ritz. they wont be sturdy, at least the ones i've had/seen. go take a look over at NTP for the tripods. I'm about to go get a new one cause mine sucks and has been demoted to being a light stand.

As far as flash, I went right to the sb-600, no questions asked, good to go.
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Old Apr 11, 2009 | 06:32 PM
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i lost mine.. i need a new one!
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Old Apr 11, 2009 | 06:57 PM
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I've been looking at the: Vivitar 285HV I guess I can push my price up and just grab this flash, is it worth the $90 or should I just grab this cheapy for $35?
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Old Apr 11, 2009 | 07:14 PM
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i have 2 285hv's, wanna buy them?
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Old Apr 11, 2009 | 07:41 PM
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yea if the price is right
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Old Apr 12, 2009 | 01:32 PM
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Seriously, Ill buy em both if the price is good, let me know cause I want to get some soon so if I can't get those I'll just order something offline
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Old Apr 12, 2009 | 03:28 PM
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Buy btuners 285s I have one also. Its a good flash for a beginner.
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Old Apr 12, 2009 | 04:42 PM
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Yea I think I'm gonna take him up on his offer

EDIT: Bought em, thanks Brandon!
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Old Apr 13, 2009 | 11:29 AM
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I have a Slik Pro 700DX tripod. It's heavy but ridiculously stable and solidly built. They go for about $140.

What don't you like about your cheap $20 tripod? Unless it's completely rickety at the head or something, you might be surprised how much stability can be had by simply adding weight to the bottom of the center post (hanging, assuming it has a hook).

It's really a weird topic. The more light you have, the more shutter speed you need and the less stability you need. In well-lit situations, I consider any tripod nothing more than something to hold the camera.

I got my new one due to shake caused by wind and needing to take 1/2sec shots at night with poor lighting. The head on my cheapie sucked and would vibrate in the wind, so no bagging helped.

Just saying...
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