Arca
Swiss system of tripod heads
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The
Arca Swiss Monoball for 35mm and 6x6cm. cameras
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This
Arca Swiss monoball has lasted over 20 years and is still
in full service. I use it for Leica and Hasselblad.
For
4x5 and 8x10 cameras and especially for the Dicomed and Better Light
digital systems, try out a Manfrotto
tripod head.
You
can buy a dozen different kinds of quick release tripod adapters.
But there is only one international standard, that set years ago
by Arca-Swiss.
So
if you travel around the world you have a greater chance to find
substitutes if you start with the Arca-Swiss system.
I
have seen many photographers try to shave a few dollars off their
equipment costs by using cheaper systems. But in the long run, Arca
Swiss tripod heads are more cost effective.
Two
different American companies make useful after-market components
for the Arca-Swiss system. I have tried them both and found that
Kirk is far superior in friendly service and personal attention.
If
you have to travel light and can't carry the Manfrotto, the Arca-Swiss
head will support
considerable weight. But the advantage of a Manfrotto
model 3263 head is that it has no ball joint, so the heavy camera
always remains horizontal. Ideally you need one of each, since you
need a monoball for your 35mm and medium format 6x6 cm cameras.
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