Approaching the Scene 095: Why I Use Fluid Heads For Still Photography

[@michaelvail2446]

I converted several months ago after watching one of your videos. 500 AH, Kirk Bridge and LR3 rail. To be honest, the Kirk mods really make the 500 AH better, functionally and aesthetically. Mine sits atop a RRS TVC 33, RRS leveling head with RRS dove tail plates for quick changes. I love the multi functionality and stability of this set up. Pristine BH55 and BH40 haven't been used since. Thanks for all you give us by sharing.

[@Globetrotter-1]

I absolutely hate the Kirk quick release plates system and much prefer the far more robust and sturdy Manfrotto 501 locking QR plates. Plus it means no fussing about trying to convert a Kirk style QR to fit a Manfrotto fluid head. All my cameras and lenses have Manfrotto 501 plates or Manfrotto L plates permanently fitted to them. One of my lightweight tripods does unfortunately have a Kirk-style QR head, so I just use a Manfrotto 577 QR adapter plate screwed to a small Kirk plate.

[@Reason-fg4ik]

Hudson, thank you! I made the switch about a year ago because I've hated the ball heads for years. The fluid head, bowl adapter, and l-bracket have made sporting events, landscape, and studio shoots so much more efficient. Thanks a million! ✌

[@echoauxgen]

Thanks Hudson for your share of videos always simple and show a lower price for us! After watching your ON1 full tutorial I went for the Manfrotto Befree fluid leveling head even converted my L190 Both so great for panos. BUT I like Milky Way rainbow panos so I am out in the dark and hard to see even viewfinder stop points for coverage, but I worked it. I have also been a Sony A7S/iii (cameras are a personal choice and gear advice is always great) and got the Novoflex compact multi-row panorama compact system (vr-system slim) some time ago BUT again setting up in the dark and all... The Fluid head and leveling ball is superb for that level pano single level (fast setup). For the multi level, for MW's with a 12-50mm I just used a plain half round compass on the side with a weighted string hanging down with the compass degree points painted with glow in the dark paint I can see the degrees to set coverage. Why so "A"! If say you want to do a 3:2 vs 16:9 or whatever ratio I get the degree points from Planit Pro in the VR EVF view, in settings you select Ratio and Coverage but in the view you just select coverage degree (180 deg) and MM and at bottom and side are the degree points. The nice thing as you go through the MM's the size of the MW changes to the view of your capture you will get. The season of the Galactic Center starts Feb 11, 21 @ around 4am (dark and cold 30). But a good degree stopping attachment below the fluid head would be nice.

[@Reason-fg4ik]

I get ya, I was shooting a moon last night and used my flash light on my phone. Another inexpensive solution is a head lamp which allows for hands free work in the dark.

[@AbandonedwithBizzy]

how do you only have 27K subs!!! you are far more informative then most camera talking heads on KZbin because you actually have explanations on why something is better to use and you know this from experience not because some one is paying you to push crap down our throats. Subscribed keep up the great content.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Thanks for that. :)

[@matsudakodo]

Pro tip: I followed most of your advice but went with the Neewer bowl adapter from Amazon. It has the set screws, is inexpensive, very solid, and has a decent grip for cold weather. I actually got 2 of them so I can keep one on my Manfrotto 500AH and one on my Fornax FMW-200 astro wedge for easy swapping. Thanks for helping me take my setup to the next level! By the way the Robus is one hell of a tripod and I can't recommend it enough.

[@nateshf9303]

Read your comment and noticed that bowl adapters can range from $20 to $150+. So I'm wondering how is your Neewer holding up?

[@Reason-fg4ik]

Agree! I have the Robus, love using it, and the price was right.

[@petercseszarik6552]

Convert here, off your first vid. Absolutely love it never going back. Great update.

[@kevinmclin8263]

Second that. I switched over after I saw the first vid, too. It's fantastic.

[@garfieldirwin]

@@kevinmclin8263 Me three!

[@HankMiner]

I'll be me 4. Love that I converted and sold all my ball heads! Have the setup from the 1st Vid looking to update based upon this Vid.

[@Reason-fg4ik]

Yep, gave my ball heads to my kids. When they're ready I'll advise them on the fluid head setup.

[@stevenwaldstein2249]

Last year I added the Manfrotto 500AH, with 75mm bowl and Kirk bridge and LRP-3 as you recommended and love it on my older Gitzo 3541XLS. I can easily switch over to a traditional ball head , or gimbal head since for my bowl I did choose a RRS Leveling head with quick release clamp ( I know you don't like these). The ball head, gimbal, and fluid heads all have a dovetail adapter to allow quick swapping but admit I am doing that less and less. Now I just have one tripod setup with a gimbal head for bird photography and one with a fluid head for landscape and architectural photography. Really enjoy your recommendations and now will update to support full 2D panorama kit. I already had a RRS pano clamp/head so I only need one rail. Thank you for the great updated video showing your latest setup.

[@QueenOfHeartsx]

what a generous video, i really appreciate all the information you detailed and the effort you've taken to share it all!

[@andreak4280]

+1 👍🏼👍🏼🌟 thanks Hudson

[@subaquagene608]

Thanks so much for your videos on using a fluid head for still photography. I have used ball heads a long time but always struggled with alignment and steadiness. The fluid solution has improved my still photography tremendously. I don't do video at all but the stability has improved greatly especially with long lenses. Thank you very much.

[@jer3006]

Hudson, awesome that you posted this video today as I'll be assembling my Manfrotto Kit this afternoon with the Kirk components! Thank you for this refresher!

Great video! first time i see a real tripod nerd (sorry about the expression) going into every single detail about tripods and all the things related. I like it! :)

[@RonSkinnerPhotographer]

I have the same fluid head set up with the Kirk stuff on 2 of my tripods and love it. For a light weight travel and macro tripod and low to the ground stuff I just got the 3 legged thing Jay tripod that comes with a built in leveling base and fluid head and all three tripod legs can be removed and replaced with 3 inch long legs for a low to the ground set up. I don’t think I’ll ever use a ball head again.

[@steven9432]

Because of your videos I just bought my first fluid head (Manfrotto MVH500AH) and mounted it on a Leofoto LS-324C tripod legs with a leofoto LB-65 leveling head. So happy with this setup! Complete game changer compared to shooting with a ballhead, and I feel all the components were reasonably priced (especially amazed that the fluid head was much less expensive than I expected). I am also shooting much more video footage of wildlife, something I was rarely doing before. Can't really imagine going back to a ballhead now.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Nice! So glad to hear it.

[@kiench]

Steven, how do you like the leofoto + LB-65? They also have the 324cex that comes with the leveling base built in. I'm debating purchase that with leveling built in or use the LB that locks with the collar. I'm thinking to use 502AH which has adjustable fluid. I'm not so much a landscape photographer but more wildlife who's thinking to venture into video from still.

[@stephencurah1059]

Same here 😃 picked up the manfrotto head, leofoto tripod and lb-65 leveling base. The issue I'm having now is that the butterfly lock appears to be in the locked position and I have no way of unlocking it. I've tried and it doesn't budge, what a bummer

[@stevenwaldstein2249]

Follow up question. Have you tried the Kirk Large Tripod Quick Release Assembly? It wasn't available when I chose the RRS one that attaches to my leveling base/bowl that allows me to swap between ball head, gimbal, and fluid head quickly.. Use this when I only had one larger long leg tripod but admit need it less now that I have two tripods like this. Just wondering. Again thank you for your videos.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

I have one of the quick releases and one of the leveling bases with the quick release. I use the quick release on my Robus to swap between a fluid head, star tracker, and slider with an ultralight head on it that I'm testing form Acratech. :-) The setup is heavy, but when you have all that kind of tracking and timelapse, stuff what do you expect. :-) It's very well engineered and works very well. :-)

[@ddunnum]

Wow, that was an excellent video. I learned a lot about using a fluid head and I think in the end it will save me some money. I was especially impressed with the replacement of the Gimbal Head. I have a cheap one that needs to be replaced... well at least before today.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

I think you'll be happy with the switch Daniel. :)

[@scottudle1831]

Ok Hudson, you convinced me. Found a great deal on a Manfrotto kit with the MVH500 head on 190X3 video legs with a leveling base built in. I don't do video but have always been frustrated with having to level the horizon after minor composition adjustments. This seems like the solution I have been searching for. Hopefully all goes well. Thanks for the great content.

[@EdwardKilner]

I have just assembled a variation on your setup, after buying a Manfrotto 502AH fluid head yesterday. Manfotto 055MF4 carbon fibre tripod, topped with 438 leveling base, topped with MVH502AH fluid video head. My Z6ii has a no-name L bracket (to be replaced by a name brand item) with arca-Swiss compatible flange. It fits into a Haoge QR clamp w/ Manfrotto RC2 adapter flanges attached to long slider on fluid head via 3/8 bolt that came with the fluid head. Don’t have a scale handy, but this is not exactly a travel tripod setup. The 438 leveling base has been sitting in a drawer for a decade. I bought it for the 055 along with a pano clamp kit and then failed to use it much. Dug it out today to create my rig. It adds both height and weight, though it is lighter than I remembered. Old man’s memory … . My 055 is not the new version with the quick conversion of the centre column to a horizontal boom, but I’ve not configured it that way often. I has served me well and is still perfect after 14 years of occasional use. I am planning to put it to considerable use this summer. Part of that desire is due to the new configuration which should remove most of the awkwardness of previous ball head arrangements.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Mine is a hair under 7 pounds complete with the 324 CL LB75S Kirk bridge, LRP-3 and 500AH. There's a reason I never recommend the 502. It's huge, heavy, awkward and overkill unless you are working with a big studio monitor, focus puller and cine lenes. I've done videos on the misconception that fluid head weight ratings are for solid still lockdowns. They aren't. They are for smooth fluid motions for filmmakers. The 500AH will hold a pro body and long lens all day for stills. Return the 502 if you can. You'll be much happier.

[@TheMiniD3]

Thank so much Hudson finally worked it all out including links etc, after 4 views :) Regards, Gary ................. AU (and thank you for your advice to my questions)

[@simonlynch6080]

So my Manfrotto aluminium tripod started giving me trouble a few weeks ago, I have ordered replacement parts, but also decided to upgrade to a carbon fibre tripod. I purchased the Sirui 5214xls, which is a monster, but really wanted that extra height. Then I was deciding which ball head to buy for it when I came across your video on fluid heads. Long story short, I went with the Manfrotto 500ah and it has been awesome. I'm not sure though, whether it is ok to store it with the head locked fully forward's it fits in the tripod bag ? Thanks very much for your videos, they are very well received.

[@andreak4280]

Looks like a pretty sweet setup going with fluid head for all things photography/film but i do have a question as to a quick simple way to utilize my ‘L’ bracket into portrait mode on the smaller lenses that i use that do not have a lens collar mount ??? The plate fits in horizontal position just fine but if i want to flip the camera into portrait position ... i do not see how that is gonna work with the speed i have using my ball head🤔🤔 did i miss something along the video? are you using an additional plate that allows this on top of the one that comes with the fluid head?? or do you use a different tripod/ ball head set up when using smaller focal length lenses ? PLEASE let me know ‘cause im super curious and would love to try out a fluid BH setup while out in the field but when speed is crucial going from horizontal to vertical i do not want to be switching plate into position from one mode to the other. hopefully this msg makes sense and thank you for any advice 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@Reason-fg4ik]

I have two rails, one is always attached to the foot on my big lens(200-500mm). The other rail has a quick release RRS clamp attached perpendicular to the rail. So when I want to use a smaller lens on my body I remove the body from big lens, attach my l-bracket to the quick release, and remove the big lens from fluid head. Finally, attach the second rail to the fluid head, with camera already attached. Very quick and totally slick.

[@andreak4280]

@@Reason-fg4ik thank you very much!! im going to get a 2nd plate and do same thing! i found some nice arca style clamps to attach to the fluid head rail and will have extra one for my long lens as well! i much appreciate your reply 🙏🏼

[@Reason-fg4ik]

@@andreak4280 you're most welcome! 🙏

[@TimvanderLeeuw]

I'm finally understanding now your fluid head setup and how it really works, after hearing you talk about it in many videos. It looks like it works pretty similar to the Leofoto 2-way long lens head which I have since half a year now - and love for similar reasons. I have a simple Sunwayphoto levelling base below it.

[@terrytaylor5558]

I'm thinking of buying the Manfrotto MVH 502AH Head,I like the Kirk Arca-Type Quick Release Bridge System for it.You said the clamp does a half turn to lock,That will hold your big lenes with no trouble????Thank you for the video.

[@terrytaylor5558]

I'm also thinking of the Really Right Stuff Collar Foot Package for Nikon AF-S 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR Lens.

[@rerod7481]

That's why I stumbled upon your channel a few years ago. It makes me wonder why so few other famous photographers use a fluid head. Just that additional kirk adapters seem a little overkill to me, since the original Manfrotto slider is long enough to easily level each configuration.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Thanks. Oh man if you do panos, the Kirk bridge is the best thing ever. It's a definite upgrade no matter what, (lighter and more versatile) but for pano addicts it's invaluable. Putting that rotating clamp directly over the heads axis of rotation is incredibly useful.

[@CreativeCaptureCL]

This is a fantastic video. I just picked up a Sachtler ACE L with carbon legs for $250! Couldn't pass that deal up. Its a bit heavier than your sticks but I still think I will probably use it for mostly everything due to ease of use as you showed.

[@loganhall5580]

I see Kirk also has a 502AH bridge. Are you familiar with the Manfrotto 502AH, in comparison to this 500AH? I'm thinking about switching from a traditional gimbal to a fluid head, but when the 800PF comes, my Z9+800PF rig will be closer to 8+ pounds. The 502AH is a fixed balance at 8.8lbs vs the 500AH fixed balance of 5.3lbs... Would the 502AH be a better option since the fixed balance is closer to the actual weight of my rig? EDIT: I found the answer in another one of your videos: ATS episode 180, around the 22 min mark. As always, phenomenal content! I've spent hours watching your channel over the years... Looking forward to joining a workshop sometime in the future to learn even more!

[@vparikh08]

Excellent setup - I have been using this setup (500AH, Kirk bridge, LRP3 ). A question - would you use leveling display that is on the Z6 camera instead of the bubble displays (much easier)? Keep up the great work!

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

No, because of the time axis. Level with the heads bubble. :)

[@robertllawrencejr5503]

Thanks for your video. I have the Manfrotto fluid heard and a leveling base. I have a hard time (seems like it would be simple) leveling the base. I can do my set to level the base and lock it in place, but when I go to look at the camera or start to pan and the camera is not level. I have no idea what I am doing wrong. It is frustrating.

[@mauriciolee7349]

Thank you Hudson for your detailed and informative video about using a fluid head for photography. One question please, when you tighten the knob of the fluid head, will it create a LENS CREEP / composition shift? Thanks again

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Absolutely not. The opposite. Rock solid lockdown even at extreme angles with my Z9 and 800pf. Check out www.hudsonhenry.com/tripods for much updated thoughts and what I use now. This video is getting really old now.

[@jordiferrer5079]

I am thinking of buying this equipment to make real state photography and video and not have to change heads every time. You think it wold be practical to do both jobs? Is it possible to level the tilt if you don't have the panorama slider mounted?

[@elmachomen]

Great video Hudson, as always! You certainly are converting a lot of ball-headers to fluid ones :) Take care and keep up the good work!

[@1973Antoniob]

Hello mr. Hudson, any advise for protect\cover only the head (i don't want to use a bag for head and tripod like what I've see in one of your video)?. thank you

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Sometimes backpacking I place a padded stuff sack over it to protect from trees and rocks when strapped outside my bag, otherwise I don't worry about it. It's pretty bombproof and not that expensive. :-)

[@caryrules]

Fluid moves with you!!!! I started life as a video guy, I can't understand why anyone would even consider a ball head. Cheers, Hudson!!

[@stevenwaldstein2249]

Cary shaffer perception that it’s smaller and lighter

[@edwardneuman6061]

On average probably 1/3 the price

[@alaikens6353]

I am slow on the uptake, but now a convert using the center column setup. Hudson is absolutely right, once you try the setup, you'll not go back to a floppy ball head.

[@livedeliciously]

Did you remove the links to that custom RRS multi-row rig on your ATS page?

[@1pupil]

Hi. In your accessories links, the "Epic and innovative new Leofoto TFS long tripod spikes with threaded covers" link on Amazon is not valid. I thought you'd want to know.

[@AhmadThabet-qw1kc]

Please recommend a Fluid Head from Manfrotto that can accommodate both still and video photography. Many Thanks and best regards from Egypt.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Check out my links. Www.hudsonhenry.com/atslinks

[@cypherpls]

Hey, whered you get that pan lock bolt from? Looks to be better than the cheap plastic ones that came with my fluid head. Thanks!

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

It comes with the Kirk bridge arca assembly for the 500AH that I helped out in the design of. It's in my links: www.hudsonhenry.com/atslinks

[@cypherpls]

@@HudsonHenryPhoto Thank you sir!

[@madcat1007]

Hey Hudson, Great video. Thankyou so much. Can you recommend a cheaper, budget alternative to the Kirk plate. I am only a poor Scotsman!!!!

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

That's a tough one. I like what Leofoto is doing too if they make one for your camera. All the good L-brackets cost money though. This video is quite old. YOu might want to watch this newer one, but it isn't going to wind up costing less... :-( kzbin.info/www/bejne/bWbTl6Cort14n5I

[@madcat1007]

@@HudsonHenryPhoto Thanks Hudson. One of your fluid head videos (I cant remember which one) showed a small secondary plate that clamped into a long nodal type plate, and which allowed you to fit a camera with an L bracket in the correct orientation. Obviously, if you put an L bracket directly onto the rail type plate, it would be facing 90 degrees in the wrong direction. That clamp you showed is not in your gear list. Any clues?

[@kiench]

Hi Henry at 18:11 - video head for wildlife, what's the adapter on your Manfrotto head that clamps to your kirk telephoto foot? I use kirk foot for my long lens but it doesn't fit the head. Thanks.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Hey there. All that stuff is linked at www.hudsonhenry.com/atslinks IT's the bridge assembly.

[@zZola_Photography]

I was about to buy a new heavier duty ball head from RRS before I discovered you video. As a wild life photographer whom is diving into astro and landscape I love the multipurposeing with the gimble style capabilities of the fluid head! I'm in! Tried to use your links but all the Kirk's stuff you mention is all available from B&H now so I am not using your links for those (unless you can tag some B&H links for the Kirk Bridge and the LRP-3 rail up in the next week or so :D Not pulling the trigger till the end o the month) Found your channel today looking for info on the z7ii ... love what I'm seeing been watching your stuff for the last few hrs... keep it up!

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

You'll love it. Email me. [e-mail] :) the Kirk folks are so great, I prefer to send them direct business and they have me as an affiliate in return. If it's for tax purposes, I get it and I'm happy to send you B&H affiliate links in that case. Ball heads aren't my favorite as you can tell, but havng used Acratech's GXP and RRS's BH-55, the GXP is twice the head and half the weight. I'll still take a 500AH over either though, even without the great Kirk mods. ;)

[@zZola_Photography]

@@HudsonHenryPhoto I appreciate the quick response... and I 100% get the wanting to give them the straight business due to the love of a company. I feel the same way about Breakthrough. Ill use the Kirk links(it was more of a laziness thing of just not wanting to start an account with a new webpage). Ive looked at the GXP and I really like the look of it. At the moment I only need 1 new mounting option and I am going to go with the fluid head but for my star tracker I will keep the GXP in mind to replace my gitzo ballhead which I hate.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

👍 The folks at Acratech are awesome too. If you decide on a GXP let me know and l will shoot you a link to that too. Thanks so much.

[@mdturnerinoz]

Thanks for this update! I have used only fluid Manfrotto fluid heads since your initial video on this topic; one daily, after I save up my box tops (does that date me? :0) ), I will buy that Gitzo! :0))) Oh, I did keep my Manfrotto pistol grip for eBay shots, but my ball heads are now only used with my action/360 cameras!

[@ivovelinov8083]

What is the difference between tilting fluid head for taking multi row panorama and using this multi row kit?

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

This video answers that question: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i3TXeHqwgrCWqLM

[@tape2199]

What is your views on the Manfrotto 504HD video head? Have you ever used one?

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

I can't stand either the 502 or 504. Big ungainly and clunky. I have a sachtler I love for the studio, but the 500AH is the perfect head for everything where i need to carry support. Prefect.

[@zonhisham]

Hudson, thanks for the great info. Am thinking of converting to fluid head. However the weight of my rig (even with my heaviest lens) is less than the fixed counter balance of the MVH500, which is 2.4kg (from the manufacturer spec sheet). Am I able to balance my rig without them drooping down . Please advise. Thanks in advance.

[@JerryAulenbach]

Thanks so much for the recommendations. I've had to watch the setup videos a couple times and reread your kit list in order to understand what I need and what works for me. I'm looking at getting a Leofoto LM-364C. It comes with a plate and a bowl. I'm trying to decide if I add a LEOFOTO YB-75SK 75mm Leveling Half Ball Adapter or the Leofoto LB-60 Leveling Base Half Ball Quick Adjust Horizontal Head. Any preference either way?

[@edubassplayer2]

my travel tripod went good for the d7100 + grip and the 17-50 and 50-150 2.8 for a while, but with the 100-300f4 +tc and microphone... Will have to buy a sturdy tripod and a better head, will try a fluid head since i'm doing videos again anyway.

[@pelikan88]

Why didn´t you keep the original video plate and mount the Arca adapter on top of that? A video plate is already designed for balancing the camera, so you don´t need an extra macro (nodal) rail to do that! Is it just because it´s geared?

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

I did that initially, but it's pretty limited. If you mount to easily center for parallax free panos, then you loose a lot of range of motion. It's heavy, awkward and inelegant. I worked with Jeff Kirk to make an elegant, centered arca solution that saves weight, makes panos a breeze and adapts the head to the use of the LRP-3 as an adjustable sliding rail and no parallax tool all in one. I sure couldn't go back. It's a dramatic improvement. For the latest build notes, check out www.hudsonhenry.com/tripods

[@Acuamon1]

Hi, Hudson, I appreciate your videos. Question: With this setup, can we do 360 panoramas intended for a virtual tour? I'm using a Fiji Xt-2 with 8mm Samyang f2.8 fisheye. I worry the (big) tripod head can be in the way. Do you have a video on 360 panoramas?

[@meg-a-bytes]

You removed the 500AH top plate and replaced it with the Kirk version. Was there something specific about the standard plate that made you switch? Is there a limitation in the standard plate that the Kirk plate fixes (other than being smaller)? Great video. I will be replacing my older Manfrotto pistol grip with the 500AH.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Several. It's much lighter and it places the clamp directly over the heads axis of rotation for advanced panorama ease with a nodal rail. You do need a nodal rail to achieve balance for and at though. If you love panos it just becomes a part of your support system so there's no need to change your setup at capture. I've got links at www.hudsonhenry.com/atslinks thanks for considering using them. You'll love the change.

[@meg-a-bytes]

@@HudsonHenryPhoto Thanks - Great feed back

[@Jessehermansonphotography]

Can you explain why you upgrade the bowl? I just purchased the Robus you recommended and the fluid head with the Manfrotto bowl handle thing. But I’m feeling like the bowl doesn’t adjust as much. I was considering milling down the bottom a little to allow for more adjustability.

[@MartinFransson]

Awesome stuff! Just starting to look for a fluid head and you have lots of helpful content. Subbed! :)

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Thanks! Check out my links for the latest setup I rely on and some alternatives. I really am digging the new leveling adapter I'm using. Www.hudsonhenry.com/atslinks

[@tomservo3728]

Hi Hudson, Great video...I went straight out and bought the Manfrotto 500AH. One question...should the bowl be lubricated?

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Awesome! No. Absolutely not. And... If you check my updated links you'll see I've moved to a different leveling system that is even easier to use. :) www.hudsonhenry.com/atslinks

[@chrisstadler7111]

I love the idea of this setup. However I’m wondering if you have any recommendations for my particular use case? Long story short I have one arm, and I don’t think that I’d be able to easily level the bowl like you have it. Anything that requires holding something steady while twisting something else can be difficult. Wondering if you have any thoughts on other options to accomplish a fluid head setup for me?

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Hey Chris. You bet. The latest setup I reccomend and build has Leofoto's amazing LB-75S which has little wings to lock and unlock. I loosen it and put both hands on the head to level, then use my pinky finger to gently tighten the wing to keep it from moving before I reach down and snug it the rest of the way. You could do that with one hand with a bit of practice I'm sure. You can see what I'm talking about at my site: www.hudsonhenry.com/atslinks and all the parts are linked here if you want to build it yourself: www.hudsonhenry.com/atslinks

[@chrisstadler7111]

@@HudsonHenryPhoto thank you very much for taking the time to respond I will absolutely check it out! Thanks again!

[@simonlynch6080]

It is a Shame the Kirk replacement bridge doesn’t have the accessory screw...

[@niknakdesign]

Hey Hudson, fab video as always. How did you come up with this custom design??? :o

[@bensteinchen]

Where can I get the panning replacement know you are using on your Manfrotto fluid head?

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

That knob comes with the Kirk bridge assembly. It's all at my links. Www.hudsonhenry.com/atslinks

[@billensing1039]

WOW, just got this and how timely. I was just conjuring the configuration of tripod support for my Z7. I have rerun and rerun your earlier post on this and found it somewhat confusing. This is much clearer. Thanks Hudson.

[@AndriiPiddubrivnyi]

Hello and thanks Question about integrated ball in tripod (like Leofoto 284cex) and fluid head, that have higher diameter of tripod base, then integrated ball. Is it issue? For example base 50mm and base of fluid head 62mm. I ordered one for tripod and only today figure it out. Thanks one more time.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

No it's fine and won't cause any issues, but the acratech is a better fit on the 284cex.

[@slotown1978]

The head becomes the pan and clamp are there degrees that you can use

[@matthewguthrie7675]

I’ve going to go with the recommendations from Mr. Hudson Henry but I have one question if I can only get one pano head do I get the fluid head from Manfrotto or a Acratech panoramic head?

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Fluid head unless weight is your utmost priority. I talk about it all in videos at www.hudsonhenry.com/tripods First name is Hudson but no big deal. :-)

[@matthewguthrie7675]

@@HudsonHenryPhoto my silly auto correct got me and i didn’t catch it. Ok. I’ll get the Manfrotto. Thank you Hudson. I love your content.

[@ryanstark2350]

I have to agree with you about video heads for still photography. I bought a good video head and ball leveler tripod for video and realised how great it was for stills. However, it's too big and heavy for photography purposes so I'm looking at lighter options because you don't need a super smooth expensive and heavy fluid head for stills. The only advantage of ball heads is with the smaller ones because they can be very light.

[@physicianscare1350]

Hi Hudson thank you for your video. I have a D850 and use a 500mmF4 for bird photography. I like the way you have this set up. I have a wimberley 200 gimbal. I'm intrigued by your set up with the fluid head. Is the fluid head and tripod stable enough for my gear? I have an eagle trip coming up for Washington State in December and am looking for a tripod. I've been using my gimbal on a Sirui monopod. There is a heavier gitzo that gets the same height youre recommending. I'm just not sure I really need one heavier than the one you recommend here. I do some landscape and have always kinda hated the ballheads I have.... So I really like your fluid head recommendations . ....So, will the tripod you recommend be heavy enough and can the fluid head replace my gimbal ?

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

The tripod will be fine and the gimbal will work, but for eagles with the 500, you'll miss the gimbal if you don't take it. I sometimes toss a Wimberley Sidekick in the bag, lock my fluid head tilted all the way to 90 degrees and convert it to a gimbal with the sidekick. That's a lot less weight and space than two heads... :) you'll love the fluid head for everything except birding with the 500 though and it can do that in a pinch too.

[@physicianscare1350]

@@HudsonHenryPhoto thanks for the reply. Any chance you have video link that shows the sidekick set up?

[@OliveBranchOutdoors]

Would you still recommend this setup today? I'm looking for a video rig specifically for wildlife.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Www.hudsonhenry.com/tripods that's always the latest right there. :)

[@atoro3578]

Excellent follow up to the original video. I converted because of your video and find it to be an absolute pleasure to use. Looking forward to the multi row pano video soon.

[@JanineMKartist]

How do you get the camera to attach for vertical photos?

[@cmichaelhaugh8517]

Fascinating. Now I’ve got to start saving my pennies!

[@K9malinois_dog_love]

Canon user but following for the knowledge as knowledge does not have a brand. Cool stuff I too purchased the 500 after watching this video a few months ago.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Thanks for the shoutout. All the brands are making great gear these days. We see, test and shoot everything while teaching our workshops. Today's tools are so great across the board. The important thing is seeing and knowing how to use your chosen model. You might enjoy seeing some ways I've updated my tripods builds. This is quite an old video. Www.hudsonhenry.com/tripods

[@rktaylor51]

Hudson, when I ready to buy any equipment, especially your Tripod recommendation, how do I purchase from either B&H or Amazon so you will get credit? Also, do you ever utilize a Monopod and if so, which one do you recommend (including a head)?

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Just use my links at www.hudsonhenry.com/atslinks :) wait just a second on the legs though if you're getting a tall one. I really don't use monopods much. What application are you thinking of for it? I always think of sports sideline shooting.

[@rktaylor51]

Hudson Henry Photography I'm not a professional photographer, just a avid amateur who has done some traveling (including a safari in Africa), I enjoy taking photos of family, friends (including my son’s sporting events) and most recently taking daily hikes with my 3-year-old English Labrador Retriever... I now looking to upgrade my equipment and as a result, am enjoying getting advice from the pros (like you) to invest in the best products possible...

[@skymakai]

Appreciate your work! LMK if you come to Hawaii. Our family lives in PDX so we're there a couple times a year.

[@jaydigshistory36]

Are the Gitzo still your go to? Or do you find the Leofoto LM-324CL better?

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

No the gitzo are not as good. The newer ones aren't as good a quality. The rubber wraps on the leg locks fall apart. The metal parts are cast while the Leo is cnc milled and the Leo comes with a bag and accessories, weighs a pound less and costs half as much for better quality.

[@ThePandaPhotographer]

I'd like your studios set up, my dream setup one day

[@nnickers3355]

Nice vid. Will be going this route thanks. Question: Why do you use all the extra brackets for multi row panorama? Do you not get the same results straight off the fluid mount. Aim high lock tilt then pan & shoot, repeat level, repeat down. Is there some distortion from the camera being above the fulcrum vs inline or something?

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

It's fine for simple panos not for complex. If you have close subjects (like a crater rim or escarpment edge you're tilted down toward) then tilting will put you way off on your no parallax point. A down tilt puts you forward of it and an up tilt puts you behind it. Using another rail and vertical pan clamp gets rid of that.

[@nnickers3355]

@@HudsonHenryPhoto thank you for the reply Hudson. Moments after positing I found you answered my question with an excellent video already! kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpK4ZqeXoN9ggZY Just discovered you yesterday from a “fluid head vs ball head” search. Loving your content and the way you present. Makes sense if you’re doing a simple single plane pan or tilt, the fluid head will do and as said even complex distant pano may work out but if you’ve an interesting foreground I imagine it will have stitching issues/distortion. I’ve always relied on photoshop to resolve panoramic but often not happy now I know why! Thank you again. The only thing I would like to see more of in your videos is example photos from your successful/ not successful setups. Cheers.

[@mirasga]

I have never used a ball head in my whole photography life. :D I have only used a fluid heads and pan & tilt heads.

[@woodybear8298]

Why no links to these products?

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Hmmmmm I wonder how that happened. I'll fix it tomorrow. For now, just look here. I've updated it with a much improved set of legs and leveling adapter anyway. ;) www.hudsonhenry.com/atslinks

[@frankcruz8068]

Great logical points. Thank you!

[@micahcirlos]

in my experience i never had any issues with really right stuff ball heads even when I needed to make minor adjustments. i never had any issues with losing level on the legs. Some ball heads also allow you to pan which also never gave me issues with losing level or horizon as long as legs are secure of course. I think the real benefit is being able to adjust without the ball head flopping, but if you don't loosen the ball head too much it won't totally flop on you. I stick with ball heads because they are usually more compact, stronger, and faster to use.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

You'll never know what you're missing: precision and balance. It's funny I'd have said something similar after 20 years using Kirk, Arca and RRS ballheads, but then I was forced to share one with the film crew I joined documenting a historic climb of Denali in 2013. There's only so much weight you can budget climbing to 20,000 feet and my ballhead didn't make the list. After 30 days on the mountain with the fluid head, my BH55 was for sale the day I got home. Oh the load limits on fluid heads are for smooth video pan, tilt and crane motions, not load locking limits. The 500AH holds a bigger load than the BH55. No doubt about that. A pro body and 800 locks just fine. I've converted hundreds of ball head users, zero complaints. :) Compact, yeah. Better to mount on something tilted like a star tracker, yep. That's true of ballheads. Able to precisely tilt without losing level or balance like a gimbal and not flop... Not so much. The only time I use them is on a tilted slider or star tracker.

[@micahcirlos]

@@HudsonHenryPhoto i always bust out my fluid head for video work, but when I’m taking portraits I’m using my ball head. I can see why there are different tripod heads for different applications...

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Cool enjoy. If you love using the ball and get a chance, try acratech's GXP. It's the best on the planet. I love mine for my star tracker and timelapse slider. Their locking lever clamp is a work of art too. Whole thing's a pound and holds 50. It inverts to put the pan above the ball for panos and even has a sick gimbal mode too for long lens work. Insane head. Other brands should take notes.

[@tomhughes5123]

yeah just have q swiss l brackets on all my dslr's i mada an rc2 adaptor to arca swiss side on adaptor to fit my l brackets .. its a shame nobody sells the adaptors

[@waawaaweewaa2045]

Do you use this manfrotto head for video at all? I'm a photographer considering a fluid head for stills, but I am also interested in having a head that has professional fluidity when panned, im using a sony a7riv. In other words the most versatile fluid head possible that can do both photo and video excellent. thx.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

I sure do. It's fantastic for both.

[@waawaaweewaa2045]

@@HudsonHenryPhoto Great, is this fluid head as mechanically smooth in video panning and tilting as mid range manfrotto nitrotech fluid heads (around $500-700) ? Thx. I ask because my budget for a head is in that range, but if there is no performance difference then i prob wouldnt make the jump.

[@mseesea]

Looking forward to the next episode on multiple row panos!

[@mickphotos]

just caught up with this and ordered

[@CJGlynnPhotography]

Hudson, I am a fluid head convert thanks to you and will never go back to a ball head.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

We gotta catch up my friend. How the heck are you?

[@TheGreatLoco]

Was to buy a Gitzo fluid gimbal, maybe should get this setup for everything. I hate ball heads, this thing may be the solution.

[@pierrelaviolette670]

Love your videos

[@T-Slider]

Great vid! Thanks!

[@TheOgi22]

Awesome video and information. Thank you.

[@theshortlist]

i don't like ball head also... for photography, while expensive nothing beat the arca swiss D4 in my humble opinion !

[@johntighe931]

I like your old setup better because it doesn’t require an Allen wrench. The wrench is too easy to loose or misplace.

[@shireenlim6058]

this is awesome, thank you!

[@RogerZoul]

That seems like too much stuff to me. Do you really carry all that stuff around?

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

Haha. I hear that from people who haven't tried it, or picked it up. Yes, to the top of Kilimanjaro and Denali even. I take that tripod everywhere. It's only 7.5 pounds and it's rock solid. I would much, much rather leave a a lens or two behind than that system. Read the comments from those who've tried it. Good luck finding one that disagrees. :)

[@RogerZoul]

Hudson Henry Photography - I have been using your fluid head idea for at least two years now, or whenever you made that first video. I’m pretty sure you will find me in the comment section on those early videos.

[@huf67]

I'm not paying $900 for a tripod, I will keep an eye out for one with tape on it and steal that one.... But great info all the way around !!

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

I'm always amused to see people carrying thousands of dollars of gear and then attempting to use it with hard to use, unstable tripods and heads. I think the support gear is just as important as the gear that sits atop it. Many film-makers and serious wildlife photographers I know have tripod/head systems costing many times more. :-)

[@patrickparisienne1917]

I’m also one that converted after your first video, and have never looked back either! My set up weighs 6.5lbs which is great for a 61” 4 series tripod. I have always wanted lighter fluid head/ levelling bowl assembly, and came across the following: Flex shooter Pro and Mini. To me this does everything we need, in a lot lighter assembly. Not cheap hence I haven’t bought one yet, but perhaps you could try and review one?

[@micahbowen184]

Tried those hanging bags, they are the worst in windy conditions, I don't care how much weight you put in it, it's gonna wiggle and not be still

[@shirtstealer86]

Smuuuuuuth 😅

[@TaipeiGeek]

This is crazy heavy and bulky for me and so complicated. I can't imagine myself lugging this thing on a top of a mountain together with the camera body and lenses. My back would crack probably. This is not very healthy.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

7.5 pounds. It's right there on the scale in the first 2 minutes. The head weighs less than a RRS BH55. You can build it lighter with smaller legs, but I can't imagine lesser legs. I carried a 2 pound heavier version up Denali. But to each their own. Read some of the comments from those who've tried it. Complicated it's not. The simplicity of use will keep you from ever going back to a ball once you try it.

[@TaipeiGeek]

@@HudsonHenryPhoto 7.5 pounds for the tripod, and another 5-6 pounds for camera and lenses and backpack. It can easily be more once you add a few accessories. It's too much for me, I have issues with my back.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

@@TaipeiGeek Oh I'm very sorry you're back has issues. That really is a shame. As I age, I carry lighter gear too, but the tripod isn't something I'll compromise on. I have a photographer friend in his 70s who's done a lot of very acclaimed work. He carries the series 5 version of my Gitzo tripod and a Sachtler FSB8 fluid head that weighs over 11 pounds assembled. I've hiked up to Lago Torre with him in Patagonia where he had that over his neck with his body and 2 primes in the pack. :-) That's where I'm headed. Less glass, but no less support. We all have our priorities. :-)

[@mikenomadic5508]

Taipei Geek You could look at the Acratech Panoramic Head. It has similar pluses but only weights 1 pound. So you loose the fluid head ability but needs no additional adapter to make it Arca-Swiss. It’s also more expensive, but at 1lb I’m thinking of getting one. It’ll be so much better on my back too.

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

It's interesting looking. Expensive, but interesting. If I didn't do so much video, I'd check one out. The fluid is fabulous for smooth video movements, flop avoidance and pano shifts. The acratech is expense as hell, but they make nice stuff. Worth a try for you if don't do any video and have the cash. You save a pound. You'd still need the nodal slide I show to get balanced or shoot panos. Getting balanced would be even more important to avoid flop without the fluid too.

[@Name-ot3xw]

Love your setup, but it's roughly 3x what I can justify putting on it. E: FYI to others: You can knock about $500 off the price of this guy's system if you source your parts better (Amazon or B&H).

[@HudsonHenryPhoto]

I find that people frequently spend well over 1500 on a number of frustrating tripods that don't work well for them before they discover that money could have been better spent up front buying a tripod system that makes composing and capturing your vision effortless from the beginning. That was certainly my own experience. Yes, you can get a good system for less, but it will either weigh much more or be far less durable and easy to use. I make no compromises in the support gear I build and sell. :)

[@JerryAulenbach]

14:50 "BOOP!"

[@lawrencenimrichter9471]

Well... i guess the payboo is getting a workout tonight!

[@novasomar2623]

nice hair 😌

[@JB-wb3fj]

7