Manfrotto - 055 Series 70.3" Tripod

This is a great tripod - but probably better suited for a professional with some extra money to spend (I splurged because I had gift cards to spare). It is really solid - but with that comes weight. I recently went hiking and I felt lopsided once I got to my destination. One of the few tripods that I found that can set up to be taller than the average person so if you need to shoot over a crowd it comes in handy.

Bought this product to support my heavy 7D with its lenses. Although this Tripod is a bit heavy it is a great one for my day to day operation (portrait and sport actions).

I purchased this tripod because I wanted something to go along with my 502 head and also be semi compact. I've purchased the cheaper tripods before and they never last. I couldn't be happier with it and glad I spent the extra money and chose with Manfrotto.

This is a great tripod if you are not concerned about the weight, because it is not light! If you want light, buy the carbon fiber model but be prepared to pay the difference. I mainly use this tripod for landscapes, night photography, and in my home studio for product photos. I have no complaints. It is built like a tank, the quick release legs work great and don't bind, and fold down center column is a nice feature. I use the tripod with a 498 RC2 ballhead and it works great. Last weekend I was on top of a mountain with pretty steady winds. The tripod held steady with no worries about it getting blown over. I am really happy with the purchase.

I am glad I got a professional tripod and ball head, so far performance is great.