Reviews
Nice legs
Whether you're a beginner, an enthusiast, or a professional, there are some pieces of photography equipment you just cannot do without, one of which is a tripod. The dedicated enthusiast and those that earn their living from taking photos will already have one of their choice, so this review is for the newcomers and those yet to take the plunge. As with most pieces of equipment, there is a plethora from which to choose, so how do you make the right choice? K&F Concept has a tripod that sits in the middle of its range. The TM2324 has plenty of tricks up its sleeve to tempt you.Weighing in at a smidgeon over 4lbs (1.85Kg), including the ball head, it's not the lightest around and it's not up there with the top of the range tripods, but you're not paying Manfrotto, Gitzo or 3 Legged Thing prices. That weight might not sound much but bear in mind you might be carrying it around all day. Fortunately, K&F has supplied a more than decent carry case and shoulder strap to help.The four section legs can be adjusted into three angled positions for different shooting heights and the centre column can also be inverted for low level use. It's easy to do, too. To alter the angle, simply press on the gold clips at the top of the legs and move it. To invert the column, unscrew the bottom part, slide it out, turn it round and screw it back on to stop it falling through. The height can then be adjusted by turning the collar to the desired position. The leg extenders are the lever type and though some prefer twist lock ones, I have no preference. As for sturdiness, it does its job provided you don't go too heavy with your camera and lens. The recommended maximum is about 17½lbs (8kg), which is that of a high end camera and lens. And if you own that sort of gear you won't be buying this tripod; for CSCs and other DSLRs it will be ample for your needs.One leg is covered in a foam sleeve for when you're carrying it around without the bag (tripod legs are notoriously cold at the best of times) and the feet have a slightly raised centre for added stability. At this price I didn't expect to be able to change the feet, so these are perfectly adequate. There's an in-built hook on the end of the centre column from which you can hang your camera bag for extra stability. Just pull it out to use and when you're done it self retracts.The 360° ball head itself is more than satisfactory, too. It comes already attached to the tripod but covered by a velvet bag. A nice touch. The spirit level is an assist, as is the quick release plate. The only issue I had was attaching my camera to the plate. I found it easier to remove the plate, screw it to the camera and then replace the plate onto the head. A bit fiddly but nothing you can't overcome, and if you're using a tripod, you're not out for some instant photos, so the 15 seconds or so it takes won't matter.Though obviously not high on someone's criteria, the aesthetics are pleasant enough. Those gold coloured angle clips along with the same colour banding around the centre column collar set it off quite nicely. There's a carry strap attached to the central column not for extra stability, but to save you from having to scramble down a cliff or something; you wouldn't hand hold your camera without the strap (and if you do, don't), so this is a safety element. Although mine was missing, this does come with a manual. Well worth considering.Caveat: This particular model in the range cannot convert to a monopod.
01/02/2016