Im not sure if this belongs here, but I wasn't sure where to add it. I'm looking for a good tripod for hiking. I like my current one, but it's a little cumbersome for hiking. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Here are some threads that have discussed the issue, from monopods to lightweight tripods. Personally, my Manfrotto 190XPROB is my go-to; it has a little more weight to it than my monopod but the reliability more than makes up for the extra ounces. http://365project.org/search/discussions?q=hiking+tripod
I'm with Aaron @grizzlysghost A good Manfrotto is your best option. I have two tripods and a monopod but the Manfrotto tripod is my go to. It has a little more weight but it is more stable for the slow shutter speed shots if there is a breeze.
What I'd do is to stick with my Manfrotto legs but ditch the centre column and use a lightweight head - anything would be preferable to the #029 which is on there now. That should halve the weight, just about ... you can always add stability by hanging a rucksack underneath or rigging a guy rope.
The DIY approach is to attach a string or line to the camera with a simple screw that threads into the plate attachment in the bottom of the camera and is long enough to reach the ground from where you typically hold the camera. At the bottom, you can tie a stick or get a more permanent solution but have something you can stand on with one or both feet. By standing on the stick and pulling the string tight, you create a more stable platform.
Another option is to create a "beanbag" or "sandbag". Get an old sock (or two) and fill them with the largeish plastic craft beads that kids use to make bracelets. That will be lightweight and allow your camera to remain stable while you use a rock or tree limb or what have you as the support.
I know these aren't tripods per se but they are some lightweight alternatives that you could pack in your bag as insurance or in place of your tripod, depeding on what you are going to be doing/photographing.
@grizzlysghost is the Manfrotto 190XPROB good for taking a lot of Macro pictures, wedding pictures, nature, landscape, sports, and sunset pictures as well? I'm still saving my money for not a basic tripod but a really awesome tripod.
What would you suggest that I be using for a tripod?
@sam45 The 190XPROB has a unique cantilever central column; you raise it up all of the way, push a button on the bottom and it cantilevers horizontal so you can get very up close and personal with pretty much anything macro; very versatile. Here is a YouTube vid on it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-6wW1XC_Ko
I use the Manfrotto 496RC2 ball head.
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http://365project.org/search/discussions?q=hiking+tripod
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Another option is to create a "beanbag" or "sandbag". Get an old sock (or two) and fill them with the largeish plastic craft beads that kids use to make bracelets. That will be lightweight and allow your camera to remain stable while you use a rock or tree limb or what have you as the support.
I know these aren't tripods per se but they are some lightweight alternatives that you could pack in your bag as insurance or in place of your tripod, depeding on what you are going to be doing/photographing.
What would you suggest that I be using for a tripod?
I use the Manfrotto 496RC2 ball head.