If you’re serious about a good tripod, B&H has the Manfrotto MT055CXPRO3 or PRO4 and MT190CXPRO3 or PRO4 carbon fiber tripods on sale for $80-$100 off with mail-in rebate! (All four range from $265 to $309.) For the offer on the 190PRO4 see: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1010693-REG/manfrotto_mt190cxpro4_190cxpro4_carbon_fiber_tripod.html After extensively researching tripods, I have to agree with James that the Manfrotto MT190CXPRO3 is just about the best. However, I am going with the PRO4 version, which has four quick-release leg sections and is 3.4″ shorter folded than the PRO3 with 3 leg section. (Gitzo might be a bit better quality, but their prices range from a low of $759 to a high of $3,999 for their anniversary version.) Bundle the Manfrotto tripod with James’ favorite 496RC2 ball head and it saves another $22 off the total price. Shipping is free and there is no tax outside of NY. Note: (Manfrotto is made in Italy and one of the few that are not made in China.) Offer is good until Aug 31.