Up close & personal - macro tripod review part IV

Gitzo Explorer GT2540 EX $649.95 (£490) + GH2750 off-centre ball £137

SPEC PANEL (exc ball-head)

Max Height (column down): 135cm
Max Height (column up): 164cm
Min Height: 3cm
Leg Sections: 4cm
Closed Length: 57cm
Weight: 1.8kg
Load capacity: 12kg

Quality 5/5
Features & Design 5/5
Value for Money 3/5
Overall 4/5

The Gitzo Explorer range all feature the must-have tilting centre-column and the GT2540 EX is the top-of-the-range model with 4-section carbon-fibre legs and column and magnesium alloy castings for low weight. There are just two knobs to operate; one for the column, and another for tilt and pan, making it one of the easiest and quickest to adjust.

Unlike other models from Gitzo, and some of those on test, the Explorer dispenses with the usual three-position catch for adjusting the leg spread. Instead it has a large clamp providing variable adjustment for each leg. While this means the legs can be adjusted a full 90 degrees from vertical to horizontal, permitting incredible flexibility for precise positioning, I found it difficult to set the legs evenly to level off. Be that as it may, it’s not a show-stopper for macro work.

To prevent splaying, the leg clamps are quite stiff for one-handed operation but the overall rigidity means the GT2540 can carry a load far greater than some of the heavier and bulkier tripods on test. The small size and low weight make it ideal for traveling plus the huge range of adjustments available make it a real winner for macro work but it all comes at a price.

Check back tomorrow for part V of the round-up.

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UPDATE 26/05/09 - Please note this tripod has since been upgraded slightly and is now known as the Explorer GT2541 EX.

Up close and personal: macro tripod review part I

Over the next eight days I'm serializing a feature of mine, Up Close and Personal, that originally featured in the UK photo magazine, DSLR User, earlier this year. Here's the introduction (part I):

One of the essentials for successful macro-photography is a solid tripod, we've taken a look at a cross-section of models to suit all budgets.

One of the essentials for successful macro-photography is a solid tripod, but some are much more suitable for the task than others. So what should you look for in a tripod suited for close-ups? If you’re using a macro lens such as a 50mm or a 100mm to focus within a few centimeters, a tripod with a tilting column will give you the greatest flexibility. But while this enables you to position your camera away from the centre of your tripod, there are other factors to consider.

I don’t know of any tripods that don’t have adjustable leg joints but those with infinitely adjustable legs are easier to set in position. Bear in mind you’re likely to want to carry the tripod, maybe even travel with it. I would advise 4-section legs over 3-section for compactness, but it does add to the price.


Tripods don’t have to be heavy to be stable, they just have to be rigid. You can always add a counterbalance or ballast (such as your camera bag). Tripods made from new materials like Carbon Fibre are both light and rigid, but they are much pricier than the more usual aluminium models. Over the following pages, you’ll find a range of models intended to suit both the needs and budget of the macro-photographer.

Be sure to check back tomorrow for part II and the first of the reviews; the Benbo Trekker Mk 3.