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ZEISS DTI thermal imaging cameras. For more discoveries at night, and during the day.

Gimbal or Ball head? (1 Viewer)

geordiebeginner

Well-known member
I am currently using a Tamron 200-500mm lens with a Nikon body and Manfrotto CF tripod.

I am debating as to whether or not it would be better to invest in a gimbal head or stick with the b&s I am using at the moment.

Any advice?
 
If it moves or is likely to then a gimbal wins hands down. If you need to acquire subjects very quickly then, again, a gimbal is the better choice.

On the other hand, if you are not in a rush, a good ball head is both cheaper and lighter. Add to that a ball head is great for landscapes, portraits etc.

It is all down to what subjects you are after - I use both head types.
 
Thanks John.

I have a ball head which is ok, but when panning it tends to get away from me when I try to keep it level which is why I thought the gimbal may be the better option and keep the ball for other work.
 
Pity you don't live closer as you are welcome to try out my tripods/heads to help see what suits you. Have a look at what your local Togs are using and try and pick their brains - most will be helpful.
 
Maybe you have already solved your problem since this is an old fred, but if not ... take a look at Acratech ballheads. I have the Nomad (with a Acratech leveling base on a Gitzo tripod) and it doubles quite nicely as a 'gimbal' when needed. In fact for most of the time I run it as such with a Fuji X-T3/XF 100-400/XF 2x TC on it.


Otherwise I can recommend the Promedia Gear Katana Junior.
 
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