Lightweight sticks, any recommendations

[mdslammer]

Hi Guys,

I have a Bogen/Manfrotto tripod (528XB) w/the 503 fluid head. This setup works
great. I got this specific tripod because it can support up to 66 lbs. which works
fabulous with my Kessler 12' crane.

Anyway, I have to do a series of shots for the film class I'm taking and don't really
need or want to haul around this behemoth for this static shots.

What would you guys recommend for a lightweight pair of sticks? I would like the
tripod to be collapsible to 14" or so for low angle shots. Also, do you recommend a fluid head setup or not?

Thanks.

Mark

 

[moe_snodgrass]

Check out the Gitzo 1325V. It's carbon fiber--not cheap--but I think there's a cheaper alum equiv. Super light and supports up to 27lbs. Big reason I bought it is that it goes as low as 4.3", which in reality is more like 12" with the head mounted, lower than anything else out there. How? The legs fold out in stages to make the lowest stage almost horizontal with the ground. Comes with 75mm bowl but 100mm is available. Check out the article/review of the Cartoni Focus head on this site, probably the best fluid head for under $1,000 but it still leaves me with a lot to desire.