Updated Jan 30/12
Find Vanguard magnesium ball heads here
Manfrotto 391RC2 Photo/Video Head - $79 - more in soon
This new 3-way aluminum head features a built in quick release plate system that allows your camera easy access on and off the head. Teflon friction pads to ensure smooth pan and tilt movements that are controlled by independent locks. Designed for photographers using lightweight DSLR, compact and bridge cameras, this head is a great choice for any photographic application or for lightweight video support. Height 3.7”/9.5 cm; Weight 1.3 lbs./0.57 kg; Max load 11 lbs./5 kg.
Manfrotto 496RC2 Ball Head - $99 - in stock
This ball head has been total redesigned for better ease of use. A new design friction control knob allows the photographer to achieve superior control when handling the camera and making micro movements without having to totally lock and unlock the ball head. The knobs have been redesigned to be more ergonomic, easier to handle and more user-friendly. The ergonomic shape allows the user to better lock the ball securely. A repositionable Locking lever allows the user to place it in a comfortable position in order to use it in the most convenient way. Just pull it outwards, put it in the best working position and then release it. This model features a RC2 quick release plate including an additional safety system that prevents the accidental detaching of the camera from the head. The locking lever securely locks the head both in the +90° -90° ball positioning and in the 360° pan movements. Max load 13 pounds.
Manfrotto 498RC2 Ball Head - $139 - in stock
Redesigned replacement for the 488RC2 features a new friction control knob that allows the photographer to achieve superior control when handling the camera and making micro movements without having to totally lock and unlock the ball head. The knobs have been redesigned to be more ergonomic, easier to handle and more user-friendly. The ergonomic shape allows the user to better lock the ball securely. A repositionable Locking lever allows the user to place it in a comfortable position in order to use it in the most convenient way. Just pull it outwards, put it in the best working position and then release it. This model features a RC2 quick release plate including an additional safety system that prevents the accidental detaching of the camera from the head. The locking lever securely locks the head both in the +90° -90° ball positioning and in the 360° pan movements. Max load 17 pounds.
Manfrotto 804RC2 Ball Head - $85 - special order
3-Way Pan/Tilt Head with Quick Release. Supports 8.8 lbs. The 804RC2 head uses a counter spring system to help protect your equipment. Built into the forward/back tilt axis a fixed spring helps to absorb the shock of the full camera weight from crashing down. The spring also makes it easier to position the camera on this axis since it oppses some of the camera weight. For example, without the spring, if you are using a telephoto lens and tilt forward using a standard head, your arm needs to work hard to counteract the weight of the camera plus lens. But, with the 804RC2's built-in spring, the head is actually doing most of the counter work for you thereby helping you to easily set the camera in shotting position. Maximum weight load is 4 kg.
Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Photo-Movie Head with Q5 Quick Release
$339 - special order
The innovative photo-movie head is developed to simply be the best and most ideal solution for the new HD DSLRs with embedded video functions. With a single product it is possible to take advantage of an extraordinary Photo Head and a Fully Featured video head. The unique Photo-Movie selector makes switching from shooting photos to videos quick and immediate, experiencing the best of both worlds. In Photo mode the head provides the speed and maximum freedom in all directions, like a ball head combined with an incredibly precise, smooth and controlled movement never experienced before, thanks to the fluid cartridges and an adjustable counter balance control. In Video mode a fully featured video head allows for a precise and fluid movement for pan and tilt with all of the typical video settings, including friction control. The pan bar is reversible for right or left hand users and it can quickly be removed and fixed on a tripod leg, thanks to the included rest clip. Max load capacity 7 kilos
Find Manfrotto tripod legs to pair with photo heads here
Find Manfrotto photo release plates here
Mini Ball Heads
Manfrotto 492 Micro Ball Head - $59 - in stock
The Manfrotto 492 Micro Ball Head features a strong die-cast aluminum
housing plus a hard, tough ball that moves smoothly into position.
It has a single control for complete 360° pans and ±90° tilts,
fast even movements, and can be instantly locked off in any position.
Load Capacity 4.41 lb (2.0 kg) Height 6 cm. Mounts via 3/8 thread or
1/4 thread. You can add a shoe adapter to
convert to hot shoe mounting. This is for small devices or cameras.
Find all-in-one photo tripods here