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Archive 2023 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

Ming-Tzu
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p.1 #1 · p.1 #1 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

B&H and Lonely Speck has it at almost 21 inches, while the Leofoto website and Center Column site has it about 17.5 inches. Is the 21 inches with the ball head attached?

When traveling, I shoot with a Fuji XT2 and the longest lens on there would probably be a 10-24

Looking to get a more travel friendlier option than my current setup, which is a Gitzo 2545T and RRS ball head. The 2545 folded length is about 17.5 inches, so matches the Leofoto. But the Leofoto is lighter, comes with a smaller ballhead that seems reliable, and the lack of a center column means it takes up less space in the backpack. So considering getting that. Other budget options are welcome.

Thanks!

Mar 27, 2023 at 04:41 AM

Bobarino
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p.1 #2 · p.1 #2 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

Ming-Tzu wrote:
B&H and Lonely Speck has it at almost 21 inches, while the Leofoto website and Center Column site has it about 17.5 inches. Is the 21 inches with the ball head attached?

When traveling, I shoot with a Fuji XT2 and the longest lens on there would probably be a 10-24

Looking to get a more travel friendlier option than my current setup, which is a Gitzo 2545T and RRS ball head. The 2545 folded length is about 17.5 inches, so matches the Leofoto. But the Leofoto is lighter, comes with a smaller ballhead that seems reliable, and the lack of a...Show more →

The Leofoto 284C is sold in several configurations; legs-only,,,w/head, or w/levelling base (CEX) The folded length would include whatever head (if any) it's sold with. You'' probably want to pay attention to the overall height of each configuration. The 284C legs-only version is 47.5" tall..Adding a ball-head will probably increase the height by 4-5", depending on which head you choose. Add the camera-body/view-finder height, and that's another 4" or so.

The CEX version, which includes the levelling base, folds to 20.5", but is considerably taller (57.5" max w/ no ball-head)

Here's a video explaining the differences. He's using the 3-series Leofoto in this video.

Regarding the Gitzo Traveller,,, the folded length doesn't change because the head and column are positioned between the folded legs for travel..

One feature you should consider regarding the ball-head, is a smooth and reliable friction-control. The Gitzo GH-1382QD is a superb yet compact head with excellent friction-control, and fits perfectly between the GT-2545T's folded legs. Be aware that Gitzo also has the similarly-named GH-1382TQD head (notice the added letter "T" in the name). That version does not feature friction-control, and is optimized/sized for use with the 1-series Travellers..

Edited on Mar 27, 2023 at 09:34 AM · View previous versions

Mar 27, 2023 at 09:30 AM

jeffbuzz
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p.1 #3 · p.1 #3 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

The LS-284C legs alone are 45cm (17.7in) long when folded. If B&H has it listed as a combo with a head, the dimension likely include the head.

Mar 27, 2023 at 09:32 AM

Cinstance
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p.1 #4 · p.1 #4 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

Maybe a better idea is to trade your GT2545T for a GT1555T with a 1 series head. The GT1555T folds only to 14" and is only 17" even in the non-reversed position with a travel sized head. I typically use it with a RRS BH-30 and keep it in non-reversed position because I don't feel the need to fold it. If I fold it, it is actually too short for me to attach it to my back pack

. It should have no problem handling your camera set up, and you will still have a decent maximum extended height if needed.

Mar 27, 2023 at 09:45 AM

Ming-Tzu
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p.1 #5 · p.1 #5 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

Thanks for the info!

I'm only 5'7" so the Leofoto will suit me fine I think, especially since the xt2 has a screen that I can flip up. I'm intrigued by the fact that it has no center column and wondering how much more compact it is folded, especially when compared to my 2545. Weight savings is nice too, for hiking purposes.

CEX version of that tripod is a no-go for me it seems as the larger folded length would not fit into my 30L backpack.

Appreciate the info about the GH-1382QD ballhead. Need to research that option. But you're saying that I can have that screwed into the tripod while folded and the legs won't be splayed out at all?

Bobarino wrote:
The Leofoto 284C is sold in several configurations; legs-only,,,w/head, or w/levelling base (CEX) The folded length would include whatever head (if any) it's sold with. You'' probably want to pay attention to the overall height of each configuration. The 284C legs-only version is 47.5" tall..Adding a ball-head will probably increase the height by 4-5", depending on which head you choose. Add the camera-body/view-finder height, and that's another 4" or so.

The CEX version, which includes the levelling base, folds to 20.5", but is considerably taller (57.5" max w/ no ball-head)

Here's a video explaining the differences. He's using the 3-series Leofoto...Show more →

Mar 27, 2023 at 10:24 AM

Ming-Tzu
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p.1 #6 · p.1 #6 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

I'd like to keep my 2545 for home and non-travel use, since I do have a Canon full frame setup as well.

Cinstance wrote:
Maybe a better idea is to trade your GT2545T for a GT1555T with a 1 series head. The GT1555T folds only to 14" and is only 17" even in the non-reversed position with a travel sized head. I typically use it with a RRS BH-30 and keep it in non-reversed position because I don't feel the need to fold it. If I fold it, it is actually too short for me to attach it to my back pack

. It should have no problem handling your camera set up, and you will still have a decent maximum extended height if...Show more →

Mar 27, 2023 at 10:25 AM

Cinstance
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p.1 #7 · p.1 #7 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

I actually have both and below is a picture showing the 2545T with the 1 Series non-travel head folded, and the 1555T with a small inverted ball head in non-folded position:

Ming-Tzu wrote:
I'd like to keep my 2545 for home and non-travel use, since I do have a Canon full frame setup as well.

Mar 27, 2023 at 10:42 AM

Ming-Tzu
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p.1 #8 · p.1 #8 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

Appreciate the picture! I'll need to weigh the costs associated with buying another Gitzo tripod and ball head vs buying the Leofoto tripod/head lol

Cinstance wrote:
I actually have both and below is a picture showing the 2545T with the 1 Series non-travel head folded, and the 1555T with a small inverted ball head in non-folded position:

Mar 27, 2023 at 10:48 AM

Cinstance
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p.1 #9 · p.1 #9 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

The series 1 non-travel head is a significant upgrade over the travel head. It is a lot beefier and has the friction control which makes it a lot more comfortable to use. So maybe all you need is buying a new head so that you can fold the 2545T to a more compact size, but not a new tripod

Mar 27, 2023 at 10:51 AM

Bobarino
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p.1 #10 · p.1 #10 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

Ming-Tzu wrote:
Thanks for the info!

I'm only 5'7" so the Leofoto will suit me fine I think, especially since the xt2 has a screen that I can flip up. I'm intrigued by the fact that it has no center column and wondering how much more compact it is folded, especially when compared to my 2545. Weight savings is nice too, for hiking purposes.

CEX version of that tripod is a no-go for me it seems as the larger folded length would not fit into my 30L backpack.

Appreciate the info about the GH-1382QD ballhead. Need to research that option. But you're saying that I...Show more →

That's correct. The Gitzo GT-2545T Travellers' legs fold perfectly parallel when using the Gitzo GH1382QD head.

Regarding fitting in a small bag; virtually any tripod can be shortened by simply removing a component, such as the head,,, or the feet,,,, and you can completely remove the lower leg-sections by loosening the top twist-lock, and sliding all 3 lower leg-sections out as a unit.

Edited on Mar 27, 2023 at 11:25 AM · View previous versions

Mar 27, 2023 at 11:19 AM

Ming-Tzu
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p.1 #11 · p.1 #11 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

Pretty much zero reviews about this ballhead that I can find. Most of the reviews for the T version of this model unfortunately.

Bobarino wrote:
That's correct. The Gitzo GT-2545T Travellers' legs fold perfectly parallel when using the Gitzo GH1382QD head.

Mar 27, 2023 at 11:22 AM

Bobarino
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p.1 #12 · p.1 #12 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

Here's the folded GT-2545T with the GH1382QD head
https://www.gitzo.com/ca-en/tripod-kit-traveler-series-2-4-sections-gk2545t-82qd/

Mar 27, 2023 at 11:29 AM

Ming-Tzu
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p.1 #13 · p.1 #13 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

Thanks!

Not sure if I'm a fan of the screw in knob to tighten the camera onto the plate. I know the Leofoto head has that too. I'm used to my RRS ballhead with the lever.

The Gitzo head is pricey though at like 400, unless I can find a deal. On the other hand, the Leofoto + ballhead + optional center column is like low 200s brand new. Both heads seem to get good reviews, at least from what I can see on the b&h site reviews.

Bobarino wrote:
Here's the folded GT-2545T with the GH1382QD head
https://www.gitzo.com/ca-en/tripod-kit-traveler-series-2-4-sections-gk2545t-82qd/

Mar 27, 2023 at 11:37 AM

Bobarino
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p.1 #14 · p.1 #14 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

For me, that would be a minor detail, The lock knob on the Gitzo is very smoothe and precise. Far more important for me is the ability to pan smoothly,, and the excellent friction control which prevents droop when composing/framing your shots. Personally, I think that's a big deal.

Ming-Tzu wrote:
Thanks!

Not sure if I'm a fan of the screw in knob to tighten the camera onto the plate. I know the Leofoto head has that too. I'm used to my RRS ballhead with the lever.

The Gitzo head is pricey though at like 400, unless I can find a deal. On the other hand, the Leofoto + ballhead + optional center column is like low 200s brand new. Both heads seem to get good reviews, at least from what I can see on the b&h site reviews.

Mar 27, 2023 at 12:30 PM

Ming-Tzu
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p.1 #15 · p.1 #15 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

Not sure if I'm thinking of the same thing but don't think I need friction control. I use the BH-30 head and there isn't a separate knob to control friction, and don't mind it actually. Maybe I'm missing out on something but is the friction control knob simply to control the movement of the ball head when loosening the main knob, so that the camera doesn't flop hard? If so, I find that I can use hold the camera with one hand and loosen the main knob without friction control.

I care mostly about stability for long exposures so maybe the GH1382TQD should be considered?

Also looking at Gitzo 0545 vs 1555. Depends on price but 0545 looks appealing, maybe paired with the GH1382TQD or a BH-25

Bobarino wrote:
For me, that would be a minor detail, The lock knob on the Gitzo is very smoothe and precise. Far more important for me is the ability to pan smoothly,, and the excellent friction control which prevents droop when composing/framing your shots. Personally, I think that's a big deal.

Mar 27, 2023 at 12:55 PM

Bobarino
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p.1 #16 · p.1 #16 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

Friction control becomes more important when you switch between various weight classes of bodies and lenses.

The GH-1382 TQD with no friction-control, is a very compact (small) head, specifically designed to fit between the folded legs of Gitzos' smallest Traveller tripods,,, the 0 and 1 series Travellers.

https://www.gitzo.com/ca-en/center-ball-head-traveler-quick-release-series-1-gh1382tqd/

https://cdn.gitzo.com/media/catalog/product/cache/50294efa952a939bca81e4365dc1e09d/b/a/ball-head-series-1-gitzo-gh1382tqd.jpg

https://www.gitzo.com/ca-en/gitzo-center-ball-head-quick-release-series-1-gh1382qd/

https://cdn.gitzo.com/media/catalog/product/cache/50294efa952a939bca81e4365dc1e09d/b/a/ball-head-series-1-gitzo-gh1382qd.jpg

Ming-Tzu wrote:
Not sure if I'm thinking of the same thing but don't think I need friction control. I use the BH-30 head and there isn't a separate knob to control friction, and don't mind it actually. Maybe I'm missing out on something but is the friction control knob simply to control the movement of the ball head when loosening the main knob, so that the camera doesn't flop hard? If so, I find that I can use hold the camera with one hand and loosen the main knob without friction control.

I care mostly about stability for long exposures so maybe the...Show more →

Edited on Mar 27, 2023 at 03:02 PM · View previous versions

Mar 27, 2023 at 01:51 PM

Ming-Tzu
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p.1 #17 · p.1 #17 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

Yeah, that makes sense with the friction control. I have long lenses but the longest/heaviest I've ever used on a tripod is probably the 5d4 + 100m macro or 70-200 f2.8. Most of the time, the tripod is used for landscape so smaller lenses like the 16-35 on FF.

But makes sense!

Thanks!

Mar 27, 2023 at 02:04 PM

Cinstance
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p.1 #18 · p.1 #18 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

It depends on the design of the head. On BH-30, it is very easy to lock and unlock the head by a simple flipping of the lever, so friction control is not that big of a deal. But on some other heads without friction control, like the Gitzo series one travel head, you need to turn the knob a lot to lock the ball, and you never know for sure when it is locked tightly enough (very often it will drop when you think it is locked), or how far to loose it to unlock the ball. The addition of the friction control on the series 1 non-travel head makes the life a lot easier.

Mar 27, 2023 at 03:39 PM

Ming-Tzu
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p.1 #19 · p.1 #19 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

Leaning Gitzo 0545 and maybe getting a plain BH-25 and using the clamp from my BH-30. Will think about the Gitzo ball head with friction control though if a deal comes along.

Mar 27, 2023 at 03:41 PM

Cinstance
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p.1 #20 · p.1 #20 · Folded length of the Leofoto LS-284C tripod?

Ming-Tzu wrote:
Leaning Gitzo 0545 and maybe getting a plain BH-25 and using the clamp from my BH-30. Will think about the Gitzo ball head with friction control though if a deal comes along.

Wish you had posted earlier, as I just sold my second copy of the series 1 head on Ebay last week (for $200)

Mar 27, 2023 at 03:43 PM

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