I've recently bought my first medium format camera (Bronica ETRs), but before I go out taking landscape pictures I'm in desperate need of a tripod that can support it.
My requirements:
- Weight is not an issue (The camera weighs so much that it's unlikely I'll be doing long hikes with it)
- Can hold a reasonably heavy MF camera with ease. By way of comparison, I'd say anything that could hold a 5D + 200mm lens will be ample.
- Stability is important. I've had my share of wobbly tripods and would like to get one that will last and be suitable for long exposures.
- Need to be able to accurately level or make fine adjustments
- Nothing fancy. I just want one that works, it doesn't necessarily need to be Swiss-made or gold plated. I'm aiming at the meaty bit of the price/performance curve.
What I want to know:
- What kind of head should I be looking at for landscape photography with this camera?
- Are carbon fibre legs an advantage in this situation? Why?
- What should my budget be? Ideally I'd like to keep this well under US$1000, especially as I'm willing to sacrifice on weight / portability / brand status
- What brands should I be looking at? Are there any that don't carry prestige but are still known for producing quality, functional tripods?