Under the gun to make that 5PM deadline for the local news? Or recording this week's last-minute hot story for the corporate roundup on the internal company intranet? You need a tripod that won't weigh you down and sets up in seconds. The Velbon DV-7000 is a great place to start. Its pro-quality, two-way oil-fluid head features smooth, responsive handling and a quick-release platform for easy transitions to hand-held mode. A four-position handle is interchangeable from front to back, and sets up easily for left-handers and right-handers alike.
You'll be on a secure footing with the braced, three-section legs that adjust to multiple heights and terrains. Gain even more height flexibility with the geared center column that adjusts with a few turns of the hand-crank. And avoid slips with the heavy-duty, rubber-armored feet.