Tripodic advice

[walwyn]

*sigh* My tripod doesn't go high enough *sigh*

Recently I've been shooting inside churches and for table tombs I need a couple of extra feet so that I can shoot down over the top of them. By raising the central column I can reach a height of 6ft, but I need more height. By standing on a chair or steps I can get the height I need but flash swamps the delicate colour given off by natural light.

So is there a tripod that is going to telescope up to around 8ft. Or is there an counter weighted boom type attachment I can use?

Recommendations please.

[yelvertoft]

If you are using a cable release, or infra-red remote control, you could use a lighting stand. These aren't as wobble-free as a tripod, so if you're manually pressing the release button on the camera then it will oscillate badly after you've pressed the button. If you're using a remote and use mirror lock-up as well, then it should alleviate this problem. Lighting stands go very high and are dirt cheap compared to tripods. Have a look on Calumet to see what you can get. If it doesn't work because of wobble, you've still got yourself a useful bit of kit for flash work.

[walwyn]

I've just ordered a cable release. The mirror doesn't lock up as the pana doesn't have one, so that should reduce vibration. I see that there is a place in Birmingham so a visit to try out a few things is in order.

Nice suggestion.

[andy153]

How about a light 3 or 4 rung step ladder? Clamp your tripod to the top platform? Never done it myself but have seen it done in Cathedrals and other churches. It also enables you to get up to the higher wall memorials.