Zadoq

Hi, I've tried to research this, but really struggled because of the amount of choice available in that area. We're looking for a really good tripod to use for imaging with a Canon 5D mark iv, Skywatcher Adventurer and a series of DSLR lenses from 12mm to 200mm focal length. We might be tempted going for a heavier scope later on depending on the success we get with our current equipment, so it's worth bearing that in mind regarding upgradability. We are going to travel to Abisko by plane and we are going to carry the kit around while trekking (hence the Adventurer rather than a full size mount), so weight is important but we're not necessarily looking for the lightest tripod: something around 10kg or more would definitely be too heavy, but something around 3kg would still be acceptable, although lighter is better. However stability is really the most important feature we're looking for. Subjectively, I'm quite keen on a spread stopper because I think it would make the structure more sturdy, but if a tripod is renowned for being stiff and sturdy without a spread stopper, then that's probably good enough. I'm also quite keen on being able to fit a levelling bowl such as Manfrotto 500BALL 100mm Bowl with Knob in order to be able to use a large round spirit level for easier and more accurate levelling, as I want the polar alignment to be as good as possible in order to attempt imaging with lenses of 200mm and maybe a little bit more. Because of this and in order to minimise flex, I would prefer a tripod that can house a levelling bowl directly instead of a standard tripod with a central column to which a levelling head would have to be attached. The logic I have there is that I think it makes sense to minimise the number elements and connections as they introduce flex. Budget wise, we're not made of money but we'll get what we need to get: we don't want the tripod to be the weakest link. While we're at it, advice on a good tripod head (between the Adventurer and camera, e.g. for time lapses) would also be appreciated. I've read that a geared head was probably the best option there (again, we favour stability over anything else). Thanks in advance

Hi The other-half and I are going to the Kelling Heath star party in a couple weeks (but going a week early) We're looking forward to it (fingers crossed for decent weather), but although we booked our camping pitch when we left last spring, there were only a few not very nice pitches left. The one we currently have is below a tree :-\ so far from ideal... So we were wondering if anyone had a spare pitch that we could arrange a swap for with the Kelling Heath camping site... If so, please get in touch We've bought a monster of a new tent and we're also worried it won't actually fit on that pitch because of the tree. Thanks Nico

Very interesting image. Nice to see a different object too

wow that looks amazing

Hello and welcome to SGL

Hi and welcome. You've come to the right place for advice

Hello and welcome

Welcome and clear skies

Welcome to SGL

Hello and welcome to the forum

Hi and welcome to the forum

Welcome and clear skies

Hi and welcome. You've come to the right place for advice

Hi Gregg and welcome. Hope you had some luck with the instructions above...

Hello and welcome to the forum