New tripod head

[rgs]

I have a Bogan/Manfrotto 3021/055PROB. For years I have used (and been quite happy with) a very solid old 3055 ball head with a Manfrotto's RC0 large hexagonal quick release.

I'm looking at doing a bit more architectural work including some interiors and stitched panos. In preparation for that, I removed the ball head and attached my 3047 (also old - all Bogan no Manfrotto name attached) tilt/shift head thinking it would be more precise. Now I remember why I went to the ball many years ago.

So here is the question. The tilt/shift head is clumsy to work with and the ball head has only a rudimentary scale system for panos and no bubble levels. What I need is a solid ball head with bubble levels, Arca-Swiss type QR, and scales that will work well for panos. I would prefer under $200. As you can probably tell, I tend to get very long use from tripods so I don't want something that will give up or stop acting smoothly in 1 year (or 5 or 10). I need suggestions.

Thanks.

[mhospelt]

If you plan to do architectural photos, look for a Manfrotto geared Head. Much more precise than a ball head. If you are on a budget, find a used one on Ebay.

[graeme]

A manfrotto 410 junior geared head. I've been using one for about 5 years for stained glass & ( sort of ) architectural photography. A very good piece of kit for the money. I bought it after it was recommended by forum member Kirk Gittings ( architectural & fine art photographer ).

Using a ball head for architectural stuff would drive me mad.

[ErikKaffehr]

Hi,

Hejnarphoto makes an adapter that can be used with Arca-Swiss type clamps: http://www.hejnarphotostore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=16_17&products_id=5

Best regards
Erik

A manfrotto 410 junior geared head. I've been using one for about 5 years for stained glass & ( sort of ) architectural photography. A very good piece of kit for the money. I bought it after it was recommended by forum member Kirk Gittings ( architectural & fine art photographer ).

Using a ball head for architectural stuff would drive me mad.

[rgs]

That was kind of my reasoning for getting the old pan/tilt out but a geared head makes more sense. Thanks

[philbond87]

I can also recommend the Manfrotto 410.
I converted it to Arca-Swiss with the Hejnar bolt-on adapter as well.

Although I've since replaced it I have to say that it was very good for the price and served me well and I had few complaints with it.

[Walt Roycraft]

A manfrotto 410 junior geared head. I've been using one for about 5 years for stained glass & ( sort of ) architectural photography. A very good piece of kit for the money. I bought it after it was recommended by forum member Kirk Gittings ( architectural & fine art photographer ).

Using a ball head for architectural stuff would drive me mad.

+1

[NancyP]

+1 for Manfrotto 410 with Hejnar conversion.

[Ellis Vener]

Another recommendation for the Manfrotto 410 converted with the Hejnar adapter to the  Arca-Swiss compatible dovetail Quick-release system..