Tripod Setup Recommendation for SL2 + 24-90 Vario-Elmarit?

[gtownby]

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Curious what you SL + 24-90 Vario-Elmarit shooters are using for your tripod set-up. Yes, the SL2 body feels like a tank, but that lens is also a beast - with no collar. Any concerns with using that combo with just the body-screw or a short body-screw plate? (I'm concerned.)

 

[darylgo]

Yes, concerned also with this combination.   Novoflex makes a collar for the lens.  

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1265615-REG/novoflex_astat_sl_tripod_collar_for_select.html/?ap=y&ap=y&smp=y&smp=y&lsft=BI%3A514&gclid=Cj0KCQjwgtWDBhDZARIsADEKwgNm4jb4T2v4mUjf2y-NBhZbVkYBddRkdF6bgj-KnQUnZG1sLVmWZkYaAgQmEALw_wcB

I have used it mounted body to tripod and it doesn't appear to damage the mount with the 24-90 but for long term or more than occasional usage I would prefer a tripod collar.  

[gtownby]

Daryl -

Yes - that Novoflex collar looks perfect! I'm going to put together a new full tripod set-up, and I've heard good things about the Arca format.

Thank you!

[darylgo]

3 minutes ago, gtownby said:

I've heard good things about the Arca format

It's pretty much a standard, if you're referring to the arca swiss plates.   Something to keep in mind is there are slight variations on these plates, for instance Really Right Stuff has a slightly larger plate than the original arca plate.  This only matters if you buy the RRS quick lever clamps and regular (not RRS) plates, the plates will slide loosely.  I prefer the manual method of tightening my tripod clamp with the traditional knob.  Some clamps have a short knob that is not easily accessible and tightened, best to get one with length if possible.  

[Jeff S]

With IBIS (and 24-90 OIS), I rarely use a tripod.  But when necessary, I add the RRS L plate to the body for superb support and easy switch between vertical and landscape orientation.  It goes on an RRS TVC-24L with Arca Swiss P0 head and RRS plate.
 

Jeff

Edited April 14, 2021 by Jeff S

[Einst_Stein]

The most problem I had before was shooting vertical. Now I have a L-brcket on SL, With 24-90mm it is enough to solve the vertical problem. So my Field Optics Reseatch 6233A + Sunwayfoto MAC44 ball head works OK with it. 

I had a tripod collar, it makes the vertical shooting a little bit better than the L-bracket, but the collar itself is kind of intrusive. It is a trouble maker on everyday use. I found its contribution on vertical shooting not justifying the troubles it made.  

[Slender]

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I have this combo and used it with vanilla Gitzo GT2545 with its ball head. I must admit I had second thoughts about the lens mount of the camera but I I were to leave it mounted for hours on a tripod: for video I would use a lens support 15mm tube accessory... I didnt know there was a collar for it for stills. Could be good for landscape people indeed.

[gtownby]

Lots of good intel in your responses, all. I’ll do some exploring now of the products mentioned . . . .

Thank you!

[darylgo]

2 hours ago, gtownby said:

Lots of good intel in your responses, all. I’ll do some exploring now of the products mentioned . . . .

Thank you!

Perhaps tmi (too much information).  A good tripod is necessary but technique is critical, for instance the cable release attached to a camera if swinging freely can destroy image sharpness,  conversely using the self timer is one of best ways to shoot on a tripod.  Lightweight tripods and extended center columns work fine with good technique.  Strong wind and lightweight tripods can have issues.  Tripod/head/camera combinations can easily be evaluated with magnified live view.  

[Eclectic Man]

There is a thread about expensive tripods for Leica cameras:

 

[Ph0t0Bo55]

On 4/13/2021 at 2:54 PM, gtownby said:

Curious what you SL + 24-90 Vario-Elmarit shooters are using for your tripod set-up. Yes, the SL2 body feels like a tank, but that lens is also a beast - with no collar. Any concerns with using that combo with just the body-screw or a short body-screw plate? (I'm concerned.)

 

What you're saying about the SL2 is absolutely right. It could be difficult for many because of its body, but its lens is simply splendid.

[Ph0t0Bo55]

On 4/13/2021 at 3:11 PM, darylgo said:

Yes, concerned also with this combination.   Novoflex makes a collar for the lens.  

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1265615-REG/novoflex_astat_sl_tripod_collar_for_select.html/?ap=y&ap=y&smp=y&smp=y&lsft=BI%3A514&gclid=Cj0KCQjwgtWDBhDZARIsADEKwgNm4jb4T2v4mUjf2y-NBhZbVkYBddRkdF6bgj-KnQUnZG1sLVmWZkYaAgQmEALw_wcB

I have used it mounted body to tripod and it doesn't appear to damage the mount with the 24-90 but for long term or more than occasional usage I would prefer a tripod collar.  

The Novoflex collar looks incredible my friend. Thank you so much for sharing this link.