Ball Head - Or Geared Head?

[Ungaloob]

The time has come for me to retire my old Manfrotto 329 Pro 3-D head, and I'm at a bit of a crossroads. I like the control a 3-D head gives me over that of a ball head, and Manfrotto's new 405 geared head looks interesting to me. Has anyone used or seen a 405? Should I give up and make the switch to an Arca-Swiss style ball head system? That type of setup seems a lot more versitile to me. I shoot primarily landscapes and macro, occasionally wildlife, and I'd appreciate any comments anyone has on the topic.

Bob

[Jack M]

I am not sure what to tell you here, but I am very interested to find out my self. I have you basic tripod and have been wanting to upgrade for a while.

I look forward to someone's response who knows what they are talking about.

Specifically, what are the benefits of the different types of heads?

[Ungaloob]

Specifically, what are the benefits of the different types of heads?

Speaking for myself, the subject I'm shooting and the conditions I'm in determine the type of head I want to be using. I'm generalizing here, but I'll quickly run down the different heads as I see them:

3-D heads let you adjust the different axes (pan, tilt front/back, tilt side/side) individually, allowing for greater accuracy and control, but generally causing longer setup times. Geared heads can be even more accurate and allow for finer adjustment, but still usually work with the same three axes as a 3-D head. Ball heads are simpler and quicker with only one or two controls, where you loosen one knob and move the camera to wherever you want and then tighten the knob. Makes for quick framing and shooting, but in my view you loose some of that fine control. I like to shoot landscapes, architecture, and macro shots with a 3-D head, and wildlife with a ball head.

Bob