buying a new tripod
 

hey more of a video guy, but tripods are universal... i'm in the market for a new tripod that can go at least around 6 ft when fully extended. basically with the camera and head attached it has to go above the average person's head. i think i want a manfrotto something or other. i'm not really familiar camera stores in general, so is there a camera store that people go to because it consistently has cheap(er) prices than the competition?

Try looking at the Manfrotto 055 series. They can go quite high. What's your budget?

+1

I have the 055 and it goes up to about 6' (centre column extended, without the head). lots of variation of it as well so you can pick the one that fits your budget. Overall a solid and sturdy tripod.

budget is hopefully around 150-200 or under? any places i should check out?

$150-$200 including head? If so, then forget about Manfrotto or Gitzo - take a look at the Giottos or Benro brands. Try the Lens & Shutter main store.

If you will be using it more for video then I would recommend something stronger like a twin-leg design with spreaders. This will help to prevent unwanted movement and twisting. Also look for a fluid head. Not sure if you can find a Manfrotto within the budget though. If you need to compromise I would look for fluid head first, spreaders second and then the twin leg if still within budget.
Hope that helps.

well $150-200 would be my ideal price i suppose. i would actually pay more depending on what i'm getting. my main priority is that it has enough height to get above a crowd. a cheaper head with less options would be fine as well as I run another angle also.

I'll check out lens and shutter store thx.

Also factor in what body and lens you'll have attached, a cheap one won't hold a 5D + 70-200 2.8IS well. I recommend the manfrotto 055pro legs like senna said above, I have them and with it attached to my ball head grip I have to tippy toe to look through at full leg extension. I'm 5'7" btw.