Manfrotto BeFree Carbon, series

Everyone knows that using a tripod enhances image quality, yet many photographers do not carry one because they assume they will be burdensome and heavy. The compact and portable Manfrotto Befree Carbon series should overcome these concerns. Offered in both aluminium and now carbon fibre models with camera/lens combinations under 9 lbs (4 kg), the design results in a 15.7 inch (40cm) folded length and the Quick Release Adaptor makes for very tight packing of the legs. The carbon fibre version weighs a mere 2.4 lbs (1.1kg). Both versions have handy lock/release leg extensions and two leg-spread options, with a maximum extension of 144 cm (56 inches) with the centre column extended.