like i've stated before, im really new to whats good and whats not in the field of photography. Thanks to this forum, my knowledge (and skills) are slowly growing .

Now i could be wrong, but i was under the impression that night shots are mostly used with a tripod, is that true. If so, I have one but would like something more "flexible". Is there such a thing?? any info. would be appreciated

 

Flexible in what way? Your using the tripod to get a perfectly still shot so you can have a longer exposure and come out with an un-blurred pic. In order to get a correctly exposed shot you've got to have the lens open for longer to allow more light in, doing this handheld would end up with a blurry shot. You can bump up the ISO to its highest setting to reduce the exposure time but you'll end up with a grainier shot then if you had a low iso, longer exposure and tripod.

Do you mean flexible as in angling the shot? You can get ball mounts for the tripod which makes getting the angle you want a little easier

 

Check out these

http://www.joby.com/

 

those look really cool actually

thats exactly what i was talking about. With the tripod i have now, i can angle the camera for a shot, but not as much as i would like.

Now that i think about it now, i might not need a new full-size tripod, but maybe a small table-top tripod for really low angles.

 

I was in a market for a tripod but now that I have seen this gorillapod I think I rather have this instead. It looks very portable. I have a Canon G5 so I should probably get the more expensive SLR since the G5 is a bit heavy.

 

When buying any platform, especially one that is "flexible" check the max weight that it can handle. I would be concerned to place expensive equipment on anything other than a tripod & head that couldnt sufficiently handle the weight of my kit.

For what it's worth, I usually do my homework before buying anything and when it comes to platforms, I take max weight of what the rig can handle and divide it in half!

 

Another unusual option is the Benbo line. I was always curious if I'd like 'em or not. I have a vision of wrestling with a limp squid so I'm thinking no, but sure look flexible.

 

I use a Bogen 3021 BPRO and Bogen 322RC2, both being flexible.

THe 3021 BPRO allows you to move your center column into a vertical position, which allows for overhead shots, macro shots, or get even lower to the ground.

The 322RC2 is a pistol grip tripod head and allows for a quick adjustment, the only downfall being the limited weight when in the vertical position (I think it's about 5-6 lbs in vertical, 13 lbs horizontal).

 

Exactly what I'm using, and I'm a big fan. The ball mount is SO much easier to position, you squeeze the grip and get your position, then just release it and it stays. Very user friendly, with great coverage.

 

(sort of - I have the 3021N) and get the Bogen 488RC2 Ballhead. Pistol grips are nice, but very limiting if you're shooting anything that moves with a large telephoto lens.

Bogen 3021 Pro legs: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller...egoryNavigation

Bogen 3021N legs: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller...egoryNavigation

Either will do the job, but the Pro gives a little more flexibility.

I recommend the 488RC ballhead because you can pan with it: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller...egoryNavigation

The Quick Release 2 system is nice if you have a matching monopod head that uses the same system....

Bogen Monopod head 3229: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller...egoryNavigation

Bogen Monopod 676B: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller...egoryNavigation



If you want to get really serious, check out the Gitzo Carbon Fiber legs with an Acra-Swiss head. There is some very useful reviews and information on this site: http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews...ccessories.aspx - the link is to accessories the author uses. Her support systems are $$$$$ though.