new tripod soon, what colour?
 

Unless I find a good deal on a used tripod, I'm probably going to buy a new tripod soon. Most likely a Bogen/Manfrotto 503 head/500 series legs.

The question is, should I get silver legs, or black? Black is $20 more.

Get the black. With silver, and in a studio setting with lights, you can get reflection from the silver legs. Don't believe me? I can show you some of my screwed-up pictures from bounced studio light reflecting off of my friend's (silver) tripod. (I have the black legs.) I suggest getting the Manfrotto case for the legs/head. You don't want scratches now.

Conversely, if you plan on shooting in the hot summer sun silver will be much kinder to your touch.

Of course, that may not be a major issue up there in the beautiful, moderate but moist climate of western B.C.

By God, you're right about silver reflecting the sun/heat on those hot sunny days. I've lived away from those hot Winnipeg summers too long. You're also correct about our cool summers here in Vancouver. At least I find them cool; and when you head up to higher elevations, it gets darn cold! I hate camping in the mountains. The nights are very cold---too cold for this guy. Hey! It's my birthday today (March 4). I'm 49 now! Help. What should I do? I know, buy some more cam gear.

Wear more black?

Happy Birthday Frank!

So one argument for silver, one for black.
The heat isn't as much an issue here.
Either one tent to impress the clients more?

frank,

my b-day to! i knew i liked you for some odd reason ;)


mb4

Most pros will opt for the black. I can't remember the last time I saw a set of chrome sticks. While we are at it, I am curious why you chose the 500MV tripod, as that uses a 100mm ball and is meant for a heavier load than most dv cameras. Not that you can't use it, but of course it is more expensive. It is usually shown with a heavier pan head, I think its the 516. This would be more appropriate for a betacam sized camera. Be certain the 503 will mate to the 100mm ball.

Wayne, you forgot to tell Vinten their tripods aren't used professionals.

Happy Birthday from me too Frank! Of course you should buy some more cam gear.

Have a nice day.

Best regards
Ivan

Happy Birthday !!!
 

My suggestion...as for what to do on the b-day...BUY MORE GEAR:)

Happy Birthday, Frank! Geez, we're the same age.

<<<-- Originally posted by Jeff Donald : Wayne, you forgot to tell Vinten their tripods aren't used professionals. -->>>

You're right Jeff. I see so few Vintens in the field, I forgot about them. But I don't think matte grey is the same as chrome. BTW, have you seen the color of the Vinten Pro line? Opps. Forgot. Not available in the States.

Happy birthday Frank. Hope to meet you someday seeing as we're in the same area and I read your posts every week.

Thanks for all the happy birthday comments---and happy birthday to you as well, mbuendia4. I was born late in the evening during a major Winnipeg snow storm (1954). The stork that brought me had to wear a parka.

Back to the legs, Black does look more professional also, as Wayne suggests, at least to me.