Thanks, for the replies! You think the carbon fiber ones are worth the extra $$$, for the lightness and strength? Will definitely get a ball mount, as I backpack quite a bit.

 

I went the normal route, thinking that the basic tripod would be good, then the $100 one would be enough. Finally splurged on a Gitzo 2541 with the ball head. Costly, but very light and stable. Recommendation was to go one size up on the ballhead then you'd think you'd need for 'tomorrow'. I've had no real issues with it. The legs are small enough to fit in a small suitcase, and the ball head goes into a shoe or just loose in the bag.

I actually think the ball head weighs more than the legs!

 

Not only are they lighter, but they are also somewhat weather resistant, have easy to touch surfaces when out in the cold, and dampen vibrations faster than aluminum tripods.
The downside is that they are more expensive.

 

Thanks, for your replies! I went with a low-moderate end Manfrotto. Carbon-fiber, ball mount pod. Seems lightweight... which is good since I'll be packing it on some summer hikes.




I also got one of these, for my close-up, guitar amplifier work.

 

Wow! Very nice purchase! Let us know how it works out in the field. I am jealous that that Manfrotto weighs so little and folds up so compactly. I may need to get something like it when we go traveling this summer.

I wanted to add that I just bought an inexpensive manual shutter release. That will help avoid vibrations from pressing the shutter in long exposures. I think it was only $8 from Amazon.

 

Got one of these lens --- used --- for pretty good deal. Tell you how the lens & tripod works with my Sony NEX-7. [when it arrives].

https://www.ephotozine.com/article/s...s-review-21956

 

Here's a photo of a succulent I have on the balcony. I don't know what it is, but the fascinating thing is that the flowers on it have been there for at least six weeks without dying. It's amazing.

 

Those flowers and the leaves on the plant look similar to one I have in my office. It blooms from time to time and the flowers do last a few weeks. I'll try to add a pic later.

 

OK. I'm no botanist. But maybe Kalanchoe?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalanchoe

Google image search shows some varieties that have a very similar leaf structure, along with four petal blossoms.

 

Don't think that is it...there are lots of long spindly branches coming out of the pot with the flowers on the ends. Came from my mother's house. The leaves definitely look like some kind of succulent.