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Posts Tagged ‘Manfrotto’

Manfrotto Advanced & Street lineup expanded with bags for mirrorless cameras

13 Oct

Manfrotto has launched five new bags in its Advanced and Street Collections, each of them designed for use with mirrorless cameras, lenses and other items. Referring to them as the company’s new Advanced & Street selection, Manfrotto says these bags are aimed at amateur and ‘advanced hobbyist’ photographers in need of Compact System Cameras (CSC) bags. The bags are, according to Manfrotto, a mixture of lightweight, durable and stylish.

The new lineup is composed of the Advanced Compact 1 and Street CSC backpacks, the Street CSC Messenger, Advanced Compact 1 Shoulder Bag and Street CSC Shoulder Bag. The two backpacks are designed to accommodate a mirrorless camera or compact DSLR, as well as up to three lenses, a 12.9-inch iPad Pro, and accessories. The Street CSC Messenger is similar, though it can only accommodate the smaller 9.7-inch iPad Pro, while the two shoulder bags can accommodate either camera type, as well as two lenses and ‘personal items.’

The Advanced Compact 1 shoulder bag is priced at £39.95 and the backpack at £79.95. The Street CSC shoulder bag is £39.95, the messenger bag is £59.95, and the backpack is £79.95.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Manfrotto launches Pro Light Reloader 55 carry-on roller case for kit-heavy travelers

27 Sep

Bag and accessory manufacturer Manfrotto has announced a new roller case that has enough space for three DSLR bodies and eight lenses, which is designed to meet carry-on limits for most airlines. The Pro Light Reloader 55 is suitable for stills and video equipment and can hold a gripped DSLR with a 400mm F2.8 lens still attached and can also be re-arranged to fit lights.

The external 55 x 35 x 23cm/21.65 x 13.78 x 9.06in dimensions are said to make the case acceptable on ‘most’ airlines as cabin baggage and the bag with its dividers weighs just under 11lb. A fold-away rain protector is included and the rip-stop nylon of the outer has been coated to make it water repellent. Internal dividers are adjustable and Manfrotto has included laptop and tablet pouches that are separate from the main kit compartment so that they can be taken out without having to open the whole case.

The Pro Light Reloaded has large user-changeable wheels and will retail at $ 359.99/299.95
For more information see the Manfrotto website.

Press release

MANFROTTO PRESENTS: Pro Light Reloader-55
YOUR FAVOURITE CABIN SIZE PHOTO ROLLER

The new solution for the travelling professional:

  • International carry-on size roller bag for photo and video cameras
  • Fits gripped DSLR with attached 400/2.8 or 200-400/4 or 500/4 (detached)
  • Fully customizable dividers also fit Canon C100 w/ light stands inside
  • Manfrotto Camera Protection System absorbs shock and safeguards equipment
  • TSA-approved combination zipper lock
  • Strong, wear-resistant, weather-resistant protection
  • Comfortable handle, high-mileage replaceable wheel system

Manfrotto, world leader in the photography, imaging equipment and accessories industry, presents the Pro Light Reloader – 55 Photo Roller bag, the new carry-on size camera roller designed to give professional photographers and videographers a highly protective, comfortable and stylish bag to travel and work with.

The Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader-55 is built to carry typical pro DSLR camera sets (e.g. 3 bodies with 8 lenses), super-tele DSLR sets (e.g. 1 body with 400mm f/2.8 lens attached and 3 more lenses) & camcorder with lighting set (e.g. disassembled Canon C100 with 2 light kits).

Fitting the standard for carry-on luggage for most airlines, it gives professionals the peace of mind of having their most valuable possessions near them at all times. When it’s time to shoot, the roller becomes a workstation, with gear and accessories visible and in easy reach.

The low profile design handle securely holds the bag, leaving more space for the kit. Inside the fully customizable Manfrotto Camera Protection System dividers provide shock absorption and vibration reduction with all configurations – from full day photo or video shoots to intercontinental assignments – or a personal photography adventure on the go.

The outside of the bag is made of high quality, water-repellent Pro Light Rip-Stop nylon fabric, ensuring reliable protection from external shock & extreme weather conditions.
The corners & bottom of the bag are carefully designed to resist wear. Large 84mm wheels ensure comfort and extensive mileage, and users can easily replace them when needed. A built-in TSA-approved combination zipper lock ensures a hassle-free travel experience through TSA partner airports.

The Pro Light Reloader-55 features independent padded pockets for 17” laptop & 10” tablet outside the equipment compartment, so they can quickly be taken out at security without opening the main zipper. The bag also carries a tripod and comes with a rain cover to keep its contents dry in the rainy season.

The Pro Light Reloader 55 is priced at £299.95.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Manfrotto and Benro settle 90 degree center column dispute

18 Aug

Tripod manufacturers Manfrotto and Benro have settled their patent dispute after Mamiya America Corporation (MAC Group) agreed not to market its GoClassic and GoTravel series of tripods in the USA. The battle between the two brands began when Benro began selling tripods that allow the center column to be lifted out of the collar and held at 90° to facilitate shooting directly downwards, an idea that Manfrotto claims is protected under a collection of patents it filed in December 2000.

Manfrotto said that the Benro design copied its own for ‘tripod camera supports wherein the column can be housed alternatively and removably either in a seat coaxial with the principal axis or in a second seat perpendicular to the principal axis’ that was first introduced in the Manfrotto Q90 range. Defendants MAC Group denied their products infringed Manfrotto’s protected designs and claimed that Manfrotto’s patent itself is invalid.

The case was resolved when Benro agreed not to sell the offending products in the USA, though Manfrotto has not agreed that this means Benro hasn’t infringed its rights. In the complaint Manfrotto claimed that MAC Group had achieved a great deal of success with its copied designs which had harmed Manfrotto’s income and market share. The company also accused MAC Group of poaching its employees, and demanded compensation not only for the infringement but also ‘treble damages’ as the Benro continued on its course even after Manfrotto filed its complaint.

For more information read the complaint and see Manfrotto’s original patent.

Press release:

Manfrotto Resolves Patent Infringement Lawsuit with MAC Group and Benro

Upper Saddle River, N.J. (August 16, 2016) – Manfrotto Distribution Inc., Lino Manfrotto +Co S.p.A., Mamiya America Corporation (MAC Group), and Benro Precision Industrial Co., Ltd. (“Benro”), announced today that they have resolved Manfrotto’s patent infringement lawsuit which has been pending in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. Manfrotto and Lino Manfrotto had sued MAC Group and Benro contending that Benro’s GoClassic and GoTravel lines of tripods infringe Manfrotto’s U.S. Patent No. 6,164,843, for a photographic tripod providing support in various axes. MAC Group and Benro had denied that their products infringe and also contend that the patent was itself invalid.

Manfrotto is dismissing the litigation with prejudice and Benro and MAC Group have agreed not to import or sell the accused product in the United States until the expiration of the ’843 patent on November 12, 2018. The terms of the settlement are otherwise confidential.

Manfrotto Distribution Inc., and Lino Manfrotto +Co S.p.A., are Italian manufacturers of photographic equipment. Benro Precision Industrial Inc. is a Chinese-based manufacturer of photographic equipment. MAC Group is a New York-based distributor of photographic equipment.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Manfrotto launches new Digital Director models and updates app with extra features

04 Aug

Manfrotto has added depth of field preview, an intervalometer and time-lapse controls to the app that runs its Digital Director camera-remote-control and external monitor device. Version 2.1 of the app, that is now compatible with a wider range of iPad models, also brings auto playback so images can be displayed automatically after they are recorded, as well as exposure bracketing and a more precise focusing system. The new app makes it possible to download Raw images to transfer via Wi-Fi web server, e-mail and FTP, and users can now send processed and resized JPEG files directly to social media apps on the host iPad.

Version 2.1 also imports metadata into the desktop version Adobe Lightroom via a plug-in. While the device offers controls for shooting video content it still isn’t possible to play video back through the Digital Director or to download movie files to the iPad. The Digital Director is compatible with 14 Canon EOS cameras and 15 DSLRs from Nikon but the company says that the new depth of field preview function only works with Canon models.

Manfrotto has also released a rigid case for the Digital Director as well as a sun shield and a range of frame inserts that convert the physical structure of the device to accommodate the different form factors of a series of iPad models.

The Digital Director now has configurations for iPad Pro 12,9”, iPad Air 2, iPad Air, iPad mini 4, iPad mini 3 and iPad mini 2 models, all of which cost $ 299.99/£249.95. For more information visit the Manfrotto website.

Press release:

Digital Director App V. 2.1, new Digital Director iPad compatibility and new accessories

Manfrotto, the leading global innovator and manufacturer of premium photo, video and lighting support products and accessories, announces the launch of Digital Director App V 2.1, new Digital Director models compatible with iPad Pro 12,9“ and iPad mini 4 – and new accessories including a new semi-rigid case, sunhood and frames.

Originally launched in 2015, Digital Director won Videomaker’s Best of NAB 2015 and was recently awarded the prestigious Red Dot Award: Product Design 2016.

Digital Director is the only Apple certified (MFi – Made for iPad Certification) electronic device that connects your camera and iPad for easier, more effective image making. Just tap the iPad screen to set up and control your camera, shoot, check, edit, share and manage your pictures. Digital Director ensures a reliable USB cabled connection between the camera and iPad, and its free dedicated App allows shoot monitoring and camera setting control. It is compatible with select Canon and Nikon DSLRs and iPad Pro 12,9”, iPad Air 2, iPad Air, iPad mini 4, iPad mini 3 and iPad mini 2.

Capturing, editing and sharing all your moments has never been so easy: it’s all just a touch away on your iPad!

The new Digital Director App V. 2.1 is available in the App store now and brings exciting new features and improvements, including:

Camera and shoot set up:
* Quick and easy Intervalometer + time-lapse set up
* Bracketing
* Depth of field preview in photo mode for Canon DSLR
* New, high-precision control step focus
* Optional continuous auto-play displaying full screen pictures as they are shot
* Simplified workflow

Album and picture management:
* Keyword assignment
* Pictures are easily moved to other albums
Edit with history option manages previous edits on images post produced in Digital Director
* Faster Gallery access

Sharing options:
* More sharing options: via social networks, using installed apps, via Wi-Fi web server straight to computer
* Manfrotto Digital Director Plug-in for Adobe Lightroom desktop imports Digital Director metadata into Adobe Lightroom for desktop
* Optional download of RAW images for sharing via Wi-Fi web server, e-mail and FTP
* Optional picture resizing when sharing
* Improved FTP configuration with subfolder option

The updated compatibility for iPad models is as follows:

* Digital Director for iPad Air 2 £249.95
* Digital Director for iPad mini 2 £249.95
* Digital Director for iPad mini 3 £249.95
* Digital Director for iPad mini 4 £249.95
* Digital Director for iPad Pro £249.95
In addition to the updated app and new compatibility, a range of new accessories will also be available:
* A new semi- rigid case designed to organize and carry Digital Director for iPad Air 2, iPad Air, iPad mini 4, iPad mini 3 and iPad mini 2. RRP £49.95

* A Sunhood, designed to protect the iPad screen from direct sunlight. Compatible for Digital Director for iPad mini 4, mini 3 and mini 2. RRP £24.95

* Separate frames for the iPad Air, Air 2, mini 2, 3 and 4, and iPad Pro 12.9”. This allows you to easily swap the frames to accommodate different iPad sizes with one Digital Director unit.

For more information please visit www.manfrotto.co.uk/shop-by/collections/digital/digital-director

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Manfrotto launches secure backpack with concealed rear opening

11 May

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Accessory manufacturer Manfrotto has launched a new backpack that hides the opening of its main camera compartment between the bag and the person carrying it. The Advanced Rear backpack’s main compartment zipper is between the shoulder straps on the back side of the bag, so that when it is being carried no one can open it from behind.

Manfrotto says that the lower part of the bag is big enough for a professional DSLR along with three wide aperture zooms as well as accessories such as flash units. The camera compartment in this lower section is removable and comes with its own zipped cover so items can be stored when the rest of the bag is being used for something else.  The top section can be used for more accessories or personal belongings.

An additional pocket is suitable for a 13in laptop, a tablet and documents up to A4 in size. A tripod can be attached via the tripod pocket, and a cover is built-in to protect against rain and dust. The company says that the pack is a suitable size to carry as hand luggage on most airlines.

The Manfrotto Advanced Rear backpack costs $ 159.99/£119.95. For more information visit the Manfrotto website.

Press release:

MANFROTTO PRESENTS: Manfrotto Advanced Rear Backpack

Manfrotto, world leader in the photography, imaging equipment and accessories industry, announces the launch of the new Manfrotto Advanced Rear Backpack.
The Advanced Rear Backpack can be used as a camera backpack, a laptop backpack, or just as a protective camera case.

Protective for photographers
Featuring the Manfrotto Protection System, the lower part of the bag is dedicated to holding photographic equipment, and will safely hold a professional DSLR camera body with up to 3 lenses. The zip for the camera compartment is hidden on the back of the bag, giving maximum security to your equipment. The camera compartment is completely removable, meaning the bag can be transformed into a spacious daypack.

Practical for travellers
The new Manfrotto Advanced Rear Backpack features plenty of space for personal belongings when you are travelling. The front pocket can store a 13” laptop, A4 documents, 10” tablet and small book and can be opened separately without affecting your camera equipment. The side pocket is suitable for a notebook and water bottle and the upper compartment can contain other documents and personal items. The zips can also be locked for further security.

The bag comes with a dedicated tripod compartment, a side pocket perfect for a small tripod and a branded rain cover to keep equipment protected in all weather conditions.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Review: Manfrotto 5001B Nano Light Stand

27 Mar

Rating: 10/10

Among the most essential parts of a photographer’s lighting kit, is a sturdy light stand. While there are a wide variety of options that definitely fall into the sturdy category, many of these light stands are also heavy, bulky, and difficult to travel with. One light stand that is pretty much the complete opposite of every other option out there, is the Manfrotto 5001B Nano. Compact, lightweight, and surprisingly tall for its size, this light stand is my go-to favorite that accompanies me on every one of my photo shoots, however it won’t necessarily meet the needs and expectations of every photographer. Here are some reasons why you might love this light stand, and why you might opt for another option.

Manfrotto 5001B Nano Lighting Stand 1

Manfrotto Nano 5001B shown next to the Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 lens and light stand adapter (neither of these is included and must be purchased separately).

Manfrotto 5001B Nano Specifics

Weighing in at a mere 2.2 pounds (1kg), this aluminum light stand stands at just around 19-inches (0.48m) when it is collapsed, and can extends up to 74.8 inches (1.9m) tall when all of its 5-sections are fully extended. According to the product manual, it has a maximum payload of 3.3 pounds (1.5kg) . Compared to other light stands, most of these stats aren’t particularly impressive, and it should now be apparent why the Manfrotto 5001B Nano won’t be suitable for every photographer. But, here are some situations when this light stand absolutely shines.

Manfrotto 5001B Nano Lighting Stand 1

Lighting stand as seen with a Speedlight adapter attached. Adapter sold separately.

Extremely Compact and Travel-Friendly

The main benefit of this light stand is its compact size, which makes it easy to carry when shooting on location, or in situations when you need a stand or two without carrying an excessive amount of gear. When pairing this light stand with a speedlight, and simple lighting modifiers like an umbrella or any of the Westcott Rapid Box series, you get a simple yet effective lighting setup that won’t take up a ton of room when assembled for use, and when transporting it.

Flexible Light Stand Legs

Unlike most other light stands, the Manfrotto Nano’s legs have little rubber tips to prevent sliding, and the legs themselves are very thin and not rounded, allowing the stand to fold down to 19 inches. The method of folding the stand can take some getting used to, but another unique aspect of the stand is its ability to get extremely low to the ground, thanks to the unusual folding of the legs. This increases the light stand’s overall footprint, offering increased stability, as well as the option of lighting areas close to the ground, without taking up a ton of floor space.

Manfrotto 5001B Nano Lighting Stand 1

Light stand with adapter, speedlight, and umbrella attached. The ideal use for this stand.

Trading Stability for Compact Size

As mentioned earlier, not every photographer will be in love with the Manfrotto 5001B Nano, as it often trades stability for its compact size. Flexible legs are great for packing up small, but also a recipe for disaster if the gear it holds is not balanced or is too heavy. Being very lightweight, without the option of suspending sandbags, this stand is also susceptible to being knocked over by even a slight bump or gust of wind, so outdoor photographers will want to have an assistant to hold it in place.  It’s definitely not as sturdy or as beefy as other light stands, meaning you won’t want to rely on it if you use heavy strobes, or big lighting modifiers.

In Summary

If you’re a location shooter, who doesn’t carry a ton of camera gear and has compact lighting equipment, the Manfrotto 5001B Nano will be your new best friend. Having one or two as travel light stand alternatives, will give you the flexibility to do a quick and easy lighting setup in tight spaces, without carrying extra weight. However, steer clear of these light stands if you prefer uncompromised stability and/or have heavy, valuable lighting gear.

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Manfrotto introduces six new monopods for XPRO range

13 Feb
From the top down, Prime, Over and Land monopods from Manfrotto

Tripod and accessory manufacturer Manfrotto has announced a total of six new monopods that it has added to the XPRO range, including models in carbon fiber as well as aluminum. The models cover three families of monopods: Prime for the heaviest equipment, Over for those who need height but for lighter kit, and Land for traveling.

The Prime models come in three variants, one of which has four sections and is made of carbon fiber. The other two are aluminum, and one of those features a pop-out three-leg support system that is concealed within the lower leg section. The Prime models can support up to 10kg / 22lbs and offer a maximum height of 168cm / 66.14in.

The Over series can support up to 7kg / 15.43lbs, and offer heights of up to 176cm / 69.29in, while there is only one Land monopod – a 5-section model which packs down to 41.5cm / 16.3in and weighs only 0.7kg / 1.5lbs. It can hold 6kg / 13.23lbs and can open to 141cm  / 55.51in.

Each of the models offers dual 1/4in and 3/8in threads and Manfrotto’s new Quick Power Lock leg clamps, as well as D-shaped tubing to help prevent rotation.

For more information visit the Manfrotto websiite.

Model Material Leg Sections  Price
 Prime Aluminum 3 £54.95
 Prime with legs Aluminum 3 £99.95
 Prime Carbon Fiber 4 £149.95
 Over Aluminum 4 £69.95
 Over Carbon Fiber 5 £169.95
 Land Aluminum 5 £69.95

US pricing is not yet available.

MANFROTTO PRESENTS: NEW XPRO MONOPODS

Manfrotto, world leader in the photography, imaging equipment and accessories industry, announces a new photo monopods range: the New XPRO MONOPODS. These products bring the premium style and performance of the 055 and 190 series tripods on single-legged camera supports and are superbly designed and crafted for professional and advanced photographers. The new XPRO MONOPODS range consists 6 of new models of the PRIME, OVER and LAND monopods.

COMPACTNESS, PORTABILITY & PAYLOAD
With 6 new models available – 4 in aluminium and 2 in Carbon Fibre, the new XPRO MONOPODS come in different sizes and with ¼” or 3/8” mounting threads.

The PRIME Monopods provide the highest payload in the range and are able to support up to 10kg (22lbs) of weight. Available in 3 models (2 aluminium and 1 carbon fibre), one features a unique retractable mechanism that allows the three feet to fully disappear inside the last tube – only coming out when needed.

The OVER Monopods have increased the maximum height by 16% more than previous model, widening the shooting angles’ versatility whilst still maintaining remarkable compactness. Available in aluminium and carbon fibre.

Extending the range further, the LAND Monopod is a 5 section monopod ideal for travelling. It folds down to 41.5 cm (32.6 in) for easy transportation and can be packed into Manfrotto backpacks or messenger bags. Available in aluminium only.

EASE OF USE & STABILITY
The New Quick Power Lock provides stability of use to all XPRO MONOPODS and a fast locking grip, which can be released with a single hand movement.

The D-shaped tubes greatly improve the anti-rotation resistance allowing for a solid locking grip by eliminating jerky movements.

Remove problems of vibration, speed and portability with the New XPRO MONOPODS: suitable for Sport photography, Bird watching, Travelling and Nature photography.

Prices from £54.95. For more information, please visit www.manfrotto.co.uk

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Review of the Manfrotto 322RC2 Joystick Tripod Head

31 Jan
Manfrotto-322RC2-Joystick-head-in-horizontal-position

Manfrotto 322RC2 Joystick Tripod Head

I don’t use my tripod extensively in the same way a landscape shooter does, but I do consider a tripod an essential part of a photographer’s arsenal.

With regard to tripod heads, I have used a ball head for many years and they are extremely versatile. They’re very quick and easy to adjust. The most basic models having a single locking screw or lever; release it and you get a full range of pan, tilt, and swivel adjustments. Once you have the camera in position, you simply tighten the screw/lever to lock the head in place.

I use my tripod essentially in the following ways:

  • When the shutter speed is too slow to hand hold my camera, and I want to get a tack sharp image (s), or shooting in low light conditions.
  • Framing the shot through the viewfinder and then taking in the scene with my eyes without having to hold my camera, or having it on me. I like to see the shot I want to to take, rather than take the shot that I see through the viewfinder.
  • Most simply to act as a perch for the camera, ready to go. I spend most of my time prepping the shot before taking it.

The ball head that I used was the Manfrotto 486RC2 compact ball head which has now been discontinued and replaced by the 496RC2.

Manfrotto-496RC2-Ball-Head-2

Image courtesy of Manfrotto

Over recent months, I have found this system of loosening the screw/lever on the ball head to make small adjustments frustrating, due to the weight of the camera and lens. I had to hold the camera with one hand and move the lever with the other. This was cumbersome at times, as the lever was sometimes too tight.

This may sound fickle. But I like my gear to work efficiently, and for me not be conscious of it, or thwarted by it. I prefer to concentrate on the shot I am about to take.

It was time for me to purchase a new head but I was undecided over whether to stick with the ball head type, or try a different style head altogether. Recently, I was working on a job in tandem with another photographer. He had the joystick type head on his tripod. I gave it a go, and found it it incredibly intuitive to use.
Talk about being smitten. I just loved it. It turned out to be the Manfrotto 322RC2.

Build

Manfrotto-322RC2-Joystick-head-in-vertical-position

The Manfrotto 322RC2 is built out of magnesium. It weighs 1.43 lbs (.70kg).

The 322RC2 is made of magnesium, and is designed to keep the weight of your kit as close as possible to the tripod’s centre of gravity, by way of its reduced height. It weighs 1.43 pounds (.70kg), and while it’s not lightweight, it doesn’t feel heavy either, and the accompanying literature states that it can accommodate up to 11 lb. (5kg).

Camera-in-horizontal-mode

I have my Nikon D750 with the 24-120mm f/4G ED VR attached which is roughly 1.510kg (just over 3 lb.).

Key Features

Let’s take a closer look at the key features:

  • One single lever for quick control of all movements
  • Quick release plate with built-in secondary safety pin
  • Built-in bubble spirit level
  • Friction control, adjustable for different camera weights
  • Customizable for left or right handed use, in a vertical or horizontal position
Top-view-of-322RC2-joystick-head

Top view of the Manfrotto 322RC2. The trigger is big so that all your fingers rest against in when squeezing it.

Camera-in-vertical-mode

Going from horizontal to vertical mode is so easy using this joystick head.

Straight out of the box, I was able to attach the head to my tripod. It does come assembled for right-hand users, but the 200PL quick release plate assembly can be removed and positioned for left-handed use. Uniquely, it can also be placed on the top of the grip in a vertical position like the traditional 222 design, but when used in this position the maximum load reverts to 2.5 kg capacity.

Where-the-200PL-assembly-plate-sits-on-the-grip-handle

Top view of the end of the grip on the Manfrotto 322RC2, where you can attach the 200PL assembly plate, so that the camera sits on top, similar in deign of the 222 model by Manfrotto.

I was able to adjust the friction wheel by turning it either to the right or left. I then placed my camera and lens onto the quick release plate, and made further adjustments allowing for the weight of both. This friction control wheel lets you regulate the power of the blocking mechanism to match the weight of your camera/lens, which is key to its design.

close-up-of-tension-indicator

The friction wheel scrolls to the right or left. The small red strip is the tension indicator which moves to the left or right as you adjust the friction wheel.

The built-in bubble spirit level is a nice touch. There wasn’t one on the ball head, so this feature just makes orientating your camera, horizontally or vertically, quick and easy.

Spirit-bubble

The bubble spirit level is a handy feature, especially if you are adjusting your camera positions between landscape and portrait modes.

Observations

I’ve only had this joystick head a mere six weeks, so I can’t really comment on what the cons may be at this point. Obviously, this type of tripod head may not be to your liking, or suit your photography needs.

Although, this tripod head isn’t lightweight, I feel the weight justifies what it will be holding, especially when you combine the weight of a DSLR body and a large zoom lens. That said, from my experience, I only wish I had come across it sooner. The two areas I find it most useful are:

Title-Manfrotto-322RC2-Joystick-head

  • It is easy and intuitive to use
  • It offers very flexible camera positioning, using just one hand

In fact, the more I use it, the more I like it. Maybe over time, I will encounter some negative aspects, one thing I noticed is that it doesn’t fit into my existing tripod case with the head attached. By placing the head in a vertical position, this adds another nine inches to the total length.

I didn’t want to buy another dedicated camera tripod bag, as they can be expensive. So instead, I just bought a Hockey bag ($ 16.00) to store my tripod away when not in use, or to bring to location shoots. I now use my old tripod case for my small light stands and umbrellas.

There isn’t an independent pan lock. This doesn’t bother me, but I can see this being a necessary feature for some photographers who shoot panoramas, and so forth.

Conclusion

I would definitely recommend this tripod head, but I think the best advice is to test it out first. This type of tripod head is a matter of personal choice. Plus, this head is not new on the market, so check around for deals.

Disclaimer: I was not contacted or sponsored to test the above equipment. Opinions are purely by the author only.

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Manfrotto introduces carbon fiber version of its 190Go travel tripod

30 Jan
The new carbon fiber version of the Manfrotto 190Go, with the existing aluminium version behind it

Manfrotto has launched a new lighter version of its 190Go travel tripod that is made with carbon fiber. The new model joins the aluminum version of the existing 190Go, and is essentially the same other than the amount it weighs – and costs. While the aluminum version weighs 1670g / 58.9oz, the new carbon fiber model is notably lighter at 1350g / 47.61oz. Both can manage 7kg / 15.43lbs of equipment and have a maximum shooting height of 147cm / 57.87in.

The 190Go Carbon fiber will be available legs-only or in a kit with the 496RC2 ball and socket head or the new 804 Mark ll 3-way pan-and-tilt head. UK prices are as follows (US pricing is yet to be announced): 

  • 190Go! Carbon fiber 4-section – £309.95
  • 190Go! Aluminium 4-section (for reference) – £159.95/$ 199.99
  • 190Go! Aluminium kits with 3 way head or ball head – £214.95
  • 190Go! Carbon fiber kits with 3 way head or ball head – £359.95

For more information visit the Manfrotto website. 

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Manfrotto introduces next generation of on-camera LED panels

19 Jan
Left: CROMA2, Right: MICROPRO2

Italian accessory manufacturer Manfrotto has introduced three improved LED panels that are designed to be used by professional and serious enthusiasts in the hot shoes of their cameras. The new panels, which are powered by Litepanels, are the CROMA2, MICROPRO2 and the SPECTRA2. Each of the new models features surface-mounted LEDs, with new lenses that improve the intensity of illumination in the light path thus delivering better efficiency and less fall-off. The company also says the new technology benefits the accuracy of color rendition. 

The CROMA2 and MICROPRO2 panels are very similar, except that the CROMA2 offers variable color temperature so that it can work in both tungsten and daylight situations – as well as those in between. Using a mixture of daylight and tungsten LEDs, the dominance of colors can be controlled via a continuous dial between 3100K to 5600K. The CROMA2 has a maximum output of 900lux, while the MICROPRO2 can manage 940lux. 

The SPECTRA2

The SPECTRA2 is a smaller panel with a maximum output of 650lux, and is daylight only. A dimmer switch allows its power to be reduced to 50%. 

There is a range of diffusers and colored filters available for each of the panels, and they all run from 6 AA type cells, an AC adapter or an L-Type Li-ion battery. They all have a ball and socket tripod head included, and the larger panels come with AC adapters and a bracket for an L-Type battery. For the SPECTRA2 these are optional extras.

The SPECTRA2 costs $ 219.99/£154.95, the MICROPRO2 $ 349.99/£259.95 and the CROMA2 is $ 418.99/£329.95. 

For more information visit the Manfrotto website.

Press release: 

Manfrotto, world leader in the photography, imaging equipment and accessories industry, announces the new generation compact LED lights for professional and advanced hobbyist videographers and photographers. 

CROMA2, MICROPRO2 and SPECTRA2 offer the latest LED technology available (SMT – Surface Mount Technology) in a portable size, which guarantees images with perfect color rendition and improved optical efficiency.

These on-camera LED panels, powered by Litepanels, are part of the new ready to use Manfrotto LED lights. 

CROMA2 AND MICROPRO2: COMPACT NEW LED TECHNOLOGY

A new range with the same design, the SMT LED panels embed innovative lenses, which have been specifically created for high efficiency and CRI (Colour Rendering Index).

The intensity of the LED devices can be controlled by the user – CROMA2 up to 900lux and MICROPRO2 up to 940lux. The colour temperature in CROMA2 can be regulated from 3100K to 5600K, which makes this device the perfect versatile LED panel to match the existing ambient lighting. MICROPRO2 is Daylight 5600K and permits the colour correction thanks to the diffuser and gel filter included in the pack.

CROMA2 and MICROPRO2 operate on six AA standard batteries, from mains through the included AC adaptor or on L-Type Li-ion batteries through the included battery adaptor.

Compact and powerful, thanks to the included ball head they can be used for both on camera as well as off camera use.

SPECTRA2: MINI BUT POWERFUL

The most compact LED Panel in the professional range – high efficiency in the palm of your hand. SPECTRA2 features the state-of-the-art LED SMT technology, which guarantees images with perfect colour rendition and flicker-free functionality.

SPECTRA2 is perfect for on camera use with the included new ball-head, as well as for off camera use.

The LED device is dimmable, capable of emitting 650lux, and provides a further increase in the light output thanks to the boost mode (+50%). The colour temperature of the LED Panel is Daylight 5600K but it can be changed thanks to diffusers and filter gels.

SPECTRA2 can operate on six AA standard batteries and offers, as optional, AC or L-Type Li-ion batteries adaptors.

These new powerful and compact Manfrotto LED lights guarantee best performance with a high quality light. CROMA2, MICROPRO2 and SPECTRA2 represent the top range of on-camera units.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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