What is the best $150 budget tripod/tripod head ?

Question

My budget is $150. Planning to take some night landscape, HDR and infrared pictures. My current tripod is not sturdy and precise (tight) enough (cheap $30 tripod). I need advice on what to choose, especially the tripod head (ball heads etc.) within my budget (if there is any)

Thank you.

Answer 1

$150 is close to just a body. The head will be maybe an additional $70.

A tripod is another investment towards your gear. Like you said, your current tripod is not sturdy.

Save up for a good tripod and ball head combo.

Answer 2

The slick pro 700 dx tripod.

Answer 3

Hello to you.  You know,  there is no excuse for skimping on a tripod.  I know the best brands like Giottos, Bogen and Manfrotto are expensive, but they are the best in  terms of longevity of service and craftsmanship.  After shopping around for a fine quality tripod some years back,  I saw just how expensive they were and decided to look for used.  Now I have a couple of very sturdy Bogen Manfrotto tripods I purchased used.   I saved alot of $$$$  and still have best quality that money can buy.   Tripods are not like cameras...though they have moving parts there are no electronics or reasons to be worried they may not work.    I am sending you a link below to one I just saw on eBay.  It is well below your budget but one really great set.   If you cannot use eBay,  check with Craig's List or with Photo.net.  I wouldn't consider being without a good tripod... and I sure would never pay new retail prices.   Wishing you luck...  I am certain you can find a nice one used.