Leica Tabletop Tripod

[sanyasi]

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As I am sure is true for many hobbyists (pros will have a differ answer), anytime they travel they ask themselves, "Do I really need a tripod?" I am thinking of a regular size tripod that we are all familiar with.

 

I am therefore curious whether anyone has had experience with the Leica Tabletop Tripod that sells for just over $100 with a Leica head that sells for just over $200. I take tabletop to mean any relatively flat surface. For those who have used this, what creative techniques have you developed? Put it on the sidewalk and tilt upward, put on brick wall, put it on a table on a balcony and shoot down? Bottom line: Are there ways to use this thing to get you somewhat close to a full tripod? How close can you get?

 

Thanks

 

Jack Siegel

[Jeff S]

Here's a recent thread...http://www.l-camera-forum.com/leica-forum/leica-m9-forum/114499-tripod-monopod-nothing.html

 

If you use the search box on the forum, and enter related phrases (Leica tripod, recommended tripod, etc, etc), you'll find many other related threads, with comments on the Leica tripod as well as other tripods and methods of stabilization.

 

Jeff

[rcoles]

I have used one for years with my Nikon SLR and DSLR cameras and lenses and I plan to use it with my M9. It works as chest pod to add support, for low shots or off the hood of the car. You could us it on a brick wall or other solid surfaces vertical or horizontal. It stands about a 9” high with the head and the height is fixed. The extended legs cover an area about 9” x 9” and they have rubber like tips for better traction. It is very solid and folds for storage, but is not as light, or compact as other similar items available today and is likely more expensive. The head is also easy to use and adjust and locks down completely. With a heavy lens, just put the longest leg forward to provide better balance.

Bob

[ceflynn]

Photoethnography.com - Classic Cameras

[likalar]

I've had the Leica tabletop tripod for years. It will never fill the shoes of a full size tripod, but has been useful on occasion. Nicely built, will last for a lifetime, and with a decent head is fairly versatile. Other heads besides Leica heads can be used.

 

Larry

[fotoism]

The Leica table tripods are works of art, and I have both the black and the hammertone ones. However, you do need further support most of the time when a tripod is needed, whether it be your chest, a wall, or a pillar...etc.

Last summer when I went on a month long trip to Hong Kong and China I thought for a long time if I should bring my table pod or a full size tripod. I decided on the latter. It was more bulk and weight, but when I look at the night scenes I made using the full tripod to hold my camera I had no regrets.

[Guest ccmsosse]

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I typically carry the

709B Manfrotto 709B Digi-Table-Top Tripod with Ball Head - Black Finish - Supports 4.5 lbs.

in my Billingham Leica combination Bag - it's small enough to fit in the front-zipper pocket, has a ball head, is sturdy and very inexpensive. It is better than nothing, surely not a full tripod.

 

Has anyone used the Gorrila-pods

Gorillapod Overview - Joby ??

[geesbert]

first: the gorillapod is junk. looks funky but is nearly impossible to fine adjust.

 

the leica table top tripod is nicely made, but it is too heavy, too bulky, doesn't collapse properly and is too expensive.

 

My choice of really-always-in-the-bag-tripod is the minox one. it collapses into something a tad larger than a pen, has a cable release build it, hold a lot of weight ( I used to use it with my Mamiya RB) and is such a beautiful piece of german James-Bond-Gadget, you want to play with it. second hand they go for 40€ and less, they are still in production. there are two versions, I prefer the old, shinier one with its more movable head. the newer one are a bit duller in finish. I had them both, the older one being bought new in the 50ties by my grandfather, still works like a charm

 

look here:

 

Tabletop Tripod Comparison

[Pindy]

I have to admit love for the Leica tabletop set. It fits in my Urban Disguise bag (and never gets removed) without having to disassemble it and it ideally shaped to allow for wall use with an M. It's expensive, but will last a lifetime.