Should you leave a tripod head attached between uses or remove it for travel?
Asked 1/30/2012
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Is there any recommended practice for storing or transporting a tripod with the head attached versus removing it? For example, should you normally leave the tripod fully assembled, or break it down into legs and head for flights or packing? Does it matter mechanically, or is it mainly about fit and convenience?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
14y ago
2 Answers
5
I always leave the ball head attached to my Manfrotto tripod. It does have three little retaining screws holding it in place but even if it didn't I wouldn't be inclined to remove it unless I had a particular reason for doing so.
My tripod mostly lives under the cargo net in the back of my car fully assembled and ready to go as and when I need it.
This may not be entirely related to the question but does involve a removable part of the tripod. The Manfrotto clip on screwdriver tool that came with my tripod lasted about a week before falling off somewhere and becoming lost. I think there is a design flaw in that when the tripod legs are fully closed the clip is actually pushed away from the leg it is connected too. The clip should really lock in place to avoid becoming lost. If I had the tripod again from new I would take this off and leave it at home.
Originally by user8209. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user8209
14y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
In general, it’s fine to leave a tripod head attached between uses. Several photographers do this routinely and only remove the head when there’s a practical reason, such as making it fit in luggage or a case.
There’s no special rule that says a tripod must be broken down for storage or travel. The main considerations are:
- whether it fits in your bag or suitcase
- whether protruding parts like pan handles need to be removed
- avoiding the hassle of reassembly or losing small screws/parts
For travel, either approach is acceptable: keep it assembled if it packs safely, or remove the head if that makes transport easier. If you do pack it assembled, padding it well is sensible. If your head uses retaining screws or removable handles, take care not to lose them.
So the recommended behavior is mostly about convenience, packing size, and protecting the tripod—not a mechanical need to remove the head.
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