quick question about buying something

H

homer

Well-known member
hi I'm buying my first decent tripod, anyways, the guy said its a fluid head. FM-18 Fluid Head
these are the pics.. I just was wondering if i could get some opinions on whether or not it is fluid head. He's a photographer, and seems very nice, i just don't want to be taken.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/weddingmoments/2432049142/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/weddingmoments/2431788177/

(incase it didn't take you directly to the tripod its picturues BM80227 and BM80228)

its the provista 7518 i believe. i'm getting it for 150, retail says around 200.

i read good reviews, i need it for my short films and my budget is low.
 
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I have this head and coming from a sunpak it is great BUT it is not GREAT. My budget was low as well and I couldnt afford a really nice tripod, but if you do have the money, Buy a Bogen 503 at the absolute least. The one you are looking at works OKAY and is smooth for the money, but after a while it will break down on you and the cost of two can almost get you a Bogen. Cartoni and Satchler seem to be the best, but they are so expensive. As far as it being a REAL fluid head, I am not really sure since this is the only decent tripod I have ever owned, At least until next month.
 
thanks, yea thats too much even for the bogen 503. I'm going to get it and rely on my skillz to compensate. plus I don't do too much panning with my shorts.
 
I have worked with this head before. Pan is fluid and adjustable. Not bad for the money. Tilt is just friction only so it is REALLY difficult to get a smooth movement. It sort of just comes 'unstuck' as the friction lets go and so won't be a smooth start. Once it is moving it's not too bad (again for the 150 beans your about to shell out). Please note it is nigh on impossible to do a smooth pan and tilt at the same time with this head.
Good luck with your films:thumbsup:
 
I have the Provista Airlift tripod. Samething as that except there is a 1.5 foot pneumatic lift attached to the head. Anyhow, the head is pretty good for the price but beware about the legs. Mine are falling apart. 1 screw has fallen out while the others loosen themselves rapidly. I have to tighten them up every few minutes to make sure they don't fall out and i can get a smooth pan.
 
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