Tripod for Rolleiflex

[jpa66]

I know... another tripod thread. However, my needs are relatively specific: I need a tripod for my Rolleiflex, and I'd like one that I can travel with. Weight isn't too much of a factor, but size is - it needs to fit in a smallish ( carry-on ) piece of luggage. Obviously, I don't want something heavy, but I won't quibble over say, 3 pounds versus 3.5 pounds ( just to use an example ). I'd like it for travel purposes, but I most likely won't be carrying it too far when I use it. I plan on using it for night shots in towns and cities, mostly.

Any suggestions are welcome.

Jan

 

[wallace]

I use a (second hand) Gitzo traveler with ball head and Rolleifix.

Thomas

 

[Peter_Jones]

Hama traveller pro

 

[axiom]

i use berlebach mini tripod

 

[Vics]

I like my Slik F630. It's light, fits (just) in my Rick Steves baclpack, and it's full featured w/quick-release, bubble level, and a nice nylon case. I paid about $39.00 on sale at a local shop. No good in a stiff breeze, though.

 

[FrankS]

Use of the Rolleifix is important as the back/bottom door of the Rollei does not have the structural integrity to support the camera in any but the most gentle of conditions/situations. If you plan to keep the camera on the tripod and walk with the tripod held horizontally for example, the lateral forces will deform the camera's back.

 

[t.s.k.]

+1 on the Gitzo traveler but with a leveling head.

Ballheads have a bit too much "action" for me on a lighter tripod.

 

[f16sunshine]

As FrankS mentions the Rolleifix is quite important if you value your Cameras integrity. I've never warped a Rollei but have seen a few that had been ruined presumably by tripod use.
As to tripods there are many lightweight options. Always carry an empty drawstring sack that you can fill with stones or a bottle and add weight to the tripod.
For such a lightweight camera as the rollei you don't need a monster tripod for support. You do need some weight for stability.
Look closely at the leg telescoping clasp locks. It's important that they are very sturdy and will not slip.
When adding weight this is a very important area.

Cheers!

 

[peter_n]

When it comes to camera support I believe in overkill. My two main tripods are a Gitzo series-3 systematic and a Benro traveler. I use my Rolleiflex (with Rolleifix) on both. Travel tripods are very popular and there's a dizzying range to choose from.

If you judge by price probably the top of the line models are the new RRS TQC-14 at $850 and the Gitzo 1542T at $756. However the competition from China has done wonders for the photog and the top Chinese brands are really well worth looking at if you're interested in a value purchase. If you're >=5ft 10in then the Feisol tripods (from Taiwan) are good as they cater to taller people, unlike Gitzo and RRS. If you're smaller than 5ft 10in the Benro line (from mainland China) are very well made. These tripods run in the price range of around $350, and are good value for money. I own both Gitzo 1541T and Benro C2680T travelers and I think the comparatively inexpensive Benro is the better tripod. If you care to read the details there's a review here.

There's really only one choice when it comes to a quality ballhead; the Markins Q3T. Like most modern ballheads the Q3T uses an Arca-Swiss type quick release clamp. Get the screw knob clamp and buy a SunwayFoto DP-39 plate, screw that into the bottom of the Rolleifix and you'll be all set.

If you're interested in a Feisol or Benro I can point you to reputable places to buy. Below is a pic of my Benro/Markins combo with a Fotoman 617 panoramic on top. This is a sturdy little mount and the Fotoman is much heavier than a Rolleiflex!

 

[FrankS]

I was once stuck with a too short tripod which resulted in converging verticals. I went out and bought a (used) Linhof Giant. Extends to 10 feet, I think. I've never been caught short since. But it's not a travel tripod.

 

[jpa66]

I do have the attachment for a tripod, and don't intend to carry the carry around on the tripod itself, so that's not a problem.

Man, the price of a good tripod is a lot more than the $100 or so that I paid for my Slik way back in 1987.

 

[VictorM.]

The problem of camera damage is exaggerated-it's only the back that might be bent/warped. The result of the bending is usually light leaks. Really, how many people attach any camera to a tripod and then walk around? My thinking is that a film camera on a tripod should be at least a 4X5 format.