I do a lot of video: I film tutorials, I write advice, I get into more artistic projects, …. Over the years I have accumulated a good amount of equipment. In this collection there are a number of tripods that I purchased, most of which are now unused because I have since discovered a standout model that has served me well. In fact, I like this tripod so much that I bought one for my studio and another for on the go.
Before you get carried away, know that this is not an expensive Manfrotto tripod (which I considered buying, but the price is a bit too high for my budget). Some tripods of the brand can exceed 1000 € and my budget is far from reaching this level.
Since I generally look for more budget-friendly gear, I spent a lot of time researching which tripod would best suit my needs and settled on a product made by a company called Geetoko. This tripod has a very practical advantage, which I have used on several occasions and which I can no longer do without today.
This magic feature allows you to work with the tripod in a vertical position or rotate the main rod 90 degrees, giving you more options. This feature alone justifies its price. I’ve used the 90 degree function a number of times when the traditional upright position didn’t work.
Specifications of the Geetoko tripod
Here are the technical characteristics for the APN enthusiast that you are:
- The central column can be used horizontally and at an angle (0° / 22.5° / 45° / 67.5° / 90°) or .
- The working height varies from 60 cm to 191 cm.
- Can be converted into a monopod.
- The spirit level.
- The ball head is equipped with a 360 degree panoramic sight that moves smoothly and can also be locked.
- Magnesium aluminum alloy tube 25mm in diameter, with a load capacity of up to 10kg.
- Non-slip feet
- The angle of the legs can be easily adjusted for use on uneven ground.
- The central hook allows you to attach sandbags for better stability.
- The 1/4 inch screw hole allows other equipment to be attached (such as magic arms, monitors and LED lights).
- Weighs 2kg
- Includes quick release plate and carrying case
My experience with the Geetoko tripod
This tripod is easy to use. The ball head moves smoothly to enable exceptional panning. Thanks to its all-aluminum construction, the Geekoto is rock solid and should last a very long time.
You won’t find cheap plastic parts on this tripod, so every adjustment can be made reliably and safely. Even when the tripod is in the 90 degree configuration, I find that it can easily support an SLR camera. The only challenge is when I attach my cinema camera to the tripod. In this case, especially in the 90 degree configuration, I always fix something on the central hook for more stability. A multi-thousand dollar camera shouldn’t crash to the ground…
A really cool trick with this tripod is to invert the center column for low angle photography. Cool.
The makers of the Geekoto tripod seem to have thought of everything. You’ll find position marks on the ball head, allowing you to pan more accurately, and the plate is incredibly easy to handle.
The Geekoto ball head is impressive. Jack Wallen/ZDNET
Although the Geekoto tripod is not as light as a carbon fiber model, its 2 kg weight is light enough to be easily transported while giving you the security of a more robust tool. Since this device can double as an all-in-one tripod, you’ll probably only need to pack one piece of gear. And if you’re not filming on the go, the Geekoto will be masterful for producing video content at home, in the office or in the studio.
About a year ago, when I was looking for the perfect tripod, I seriously considered buying a Manfrotto. Instead, I bought two Geekoto and didn’t regret my decision. These accessories have served me well (even better than I expected), and I’m sure they’ll help you get better results in video production.
Source: “ZDNet.com”