Gitzo G0011/G0012 Table Top Tripod

I needed a very compact traveling tripod that could fit in my small camera bag (I like to travel light). I found it to be a bit pricey but the quality of the unit is superb as one would expect from Gitzo. I fitted it with a Velbon QHD-41Q ball head and the combination works great. The head leaves some to be desired but I opted for the most compact head I could find with a quick release and it does the job well. This particular head has a shorter column so that it keeps the center of gravity of the camera more towards the center of the tripod so you can use a heavier camera at 90 degrees without it falling over. If you're looking for a table top but need something that is a bit more versatile this tripod is it. You can use a smaller SLR on it without any issues. I've used smaller table tops and they often just don't cut it for the situations where you need a bit more height.

Extremely compact and light. Build is superb as expected from Gitzo.

The legs only have one position. If they spread out a bit farther it would give the tripod a better center of gravity. This is only an issue if you have a heavier camera.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but there's really not much else in this category worth mentioning. There are not too many table tops that fold under 10" that will extend to 18".

For a table top tripod this is an elegant and permanent solution.

It is a perfect tool. I lusted after it on sight, because it was a miniturization of Gitzo quality. I had just purchased a Canon G1 camera and this was the perfect table top unit. I had a good Bilora ball head to put with it and it is a superb unit.

Gitzos are not fast but they are exquisite.

there are no peers.