Do I need a leveling base for still photography. (1 Viewer)

[MattN]

Hi, currently looking at upgrading my tripod and tripod head. I am looking at buying a gitzo tripod (GT3543xls) and the gitzo gimbal. Do I need the leveling base and adaptor ring for it? I am sort of thinking that if I am in a bird hide already, I have the time to get the tripod level and set myself up properly. I am only shooting still photos at the moment. Maybe if I was looking at getting in to videos I could see the use of a leveling base + fluid head. Anyone had any experience using this set up with or without the leveling base or has any thoughts/suggestions?

 

[Bryan Maltais]

Hi, currently looking at upgrading my tripod and tripod head. I am looking at buying a gitzo tripod (GT3543xls) and the gitzo gimbal. Do I need the leveling base and adaptor ring for it? I am sort of thinking that if I am in a bird hide already, I have the time to get the tripod level and set myself up properly. I am only shooting still photos at the moment. Maybe if I was looking at getting in to videos I could see the use of a leveling base + fluid head. Anyone had any experience using this set up with or without the leveling base or has any thoughts/suggestions?

Hi Matt, I haven't specifically used that Gitzo setup, but I can tell you that when using a gimbal, if your tripod is even slightly off level, your rig will slant and change height as you rotate it, potentially driving you mad. I use a tripod with an integrated leveling base like this one.

 

[Pheasant Plucker]

Hi Matt,

personally, I'd say it's a must for video.

As for stills, I only use a tripod if shooting relatively static/slow moving subjects. I also find them quite restrictive in a hide, depending on window height/size etc.
I much prefer to just throw a gimbal on a mono-pod. Provides a bit of support and easy to manoeuvre and follow the action.

Just personal preferences.