Nothing like trying to get your tripod set up on slick, barnacled tidal pool rocks waiting for that perfect wave to photograph and your ball head slips a little bit, you hurriedly try to get it level again and the best wave has passed you by. Really love this gearhead you reviewed. Excellent review and presentation, loved that seascape photo and your panorama shot! Subbed and gave the bell a ring!
An explanation of the spring-loaded quick release knobs and the secure locking of the top plate would be helpful. Also, your great still frame photos: the zoom out in post editing detracts from the full sized images - better with just fades. I wanted to see the compositions. 👍😎🇳🇿✨
Hi Great review. I just received one. I find that the knobs are stiff to move and do not have a fine adjustments as you need some force to turn them, resulting in jumping movements. The unlocking wheels have springs which return them as I try to unlock to make for easier movements of the adjustment knobs. I guess I am doing something wrong or perhaps something is wrong with the copy I got. Thanks.
I remember mine being a little tight at first but after a few uses it was fine. It shouldn’t be clunky though. If you keep having problems I would contact Benro
At the 2 minute mark, I notice when you touched the camera there was a slight movement. Once you set the gears to your position you want, do the (star knobs) tighten to lock everything down.... I love the precise movements but I wanted to know if you can lock down all the knobs so not movement if you accidentally touch the camera... Thanks for a great video..
Yes you’re right from memory I think I knocked the camera but the head was locked down. You do need to make sure it’s aligned within the grooves though as there is a tendency to knock it
Will this mount tip up for astro/solar work or is +30' the limit? I'm interested in photographic eclipses where the Sun/Moon could be close to zenith (straight up).
How far does the vertical axis travel go? Can you tilt it up 90 degrees? I want to use this for astrophotography and i need to be able to tilt it up at least beyond 45 degrees.
Not sure on the exact spec for this but I have tried it at 90 degrees, depending on what camera you use you can put the camera on back to front as it were to achieve this.
Hi Lee, I am starting with large format photography and thought I might get a geared tripodhead. Would you still recommend the Benro? Sunwayfoto also have nice ones like the GH-Pro which holds upto 12kg, a bit more expansive. Thanks.
Good review - very helpful - Just one question that I seem unable to find an answer for, is:- Does the centre axis of the head rotate over the centre of the triopod? I cannot find an image that actually proves that it does.
Tim Evans Hi Tim. It does when the camera is placed horizontally in landscape format but once flipped up into portrait mode it doesn’t. I use an L- bracket 90% of the time so not an issue
@@LeePengellyPhotography Thanks for such a prompt reply. Thats good to know because I want to use it for panoramas. I will also be using an L bracket as well. Also there have been some reports concerning 'slop' in the mechanism after a while - how is yours holding up, any problems?
Tim Evans I’ve been using it all the time for the past year and a half, including travelling with it and no problems. When the mechanisms are employed it sometimes ends up in a notch in the gearing so need to make sure it’s fully turned ( hope that makes sense 🤔), it’s not a fault just the gear mechanism. Absolutely no slackening though
This looks like a sturdy head...i have been using a 3 way manfrotto but there is a slight bit of play...i have read up on the B3 ballhead that is advertised with the tripod, but it appears there is no level built in with that, whereas there is in the GD3 ...good vids Lee
thanks. still like this head? i ordered one months ago and the backorder finally filled. i am moving over from a Manfrotto 410 Jr. geared head. are the oblong "pill" spirit levels on the clamp crooked? one of mine is glued in really crooked which kind of defeats the purpose.
storysupport There are 3 levels on the top section of the head however I tend to use levels on my camera but yes I guess you can level the tripod/head combo before fixing the camera.
Cool. My ideal is that I will still have he ability to execute an evenly balanced panoramic image, even when on an uncompromising surface. Therefore, If I can setup a tripod and the base upon which the head is mounted is tilted/not level, and still arrange it so the rotation of the camera isn’t on a tilted slope. That’ll be great!
I used to hate the Benro (got it as a last minute buy after I broke my Manfrotto 405). I do not like the fact that you have to swing the camera RIGHT in order to shoot vertically, but that's just me. In order to swing LEFT you have to lock the camera "backwards" on the head, in other words with the locking knob facing forward. It's odd but it works. I actually find the Benro gears much more precise and way smoother than the Manfrotto's. Plus it's way lighter. We'll find out if it holds the test of time... BTW I do not use the small Benro plate, mine is an Arcatech and it's been fine.
The locking knob is supposed to be in front for two reasons. First, it puts the bubble level behind the camera where the photographer can see it, and second because that brings the traversing knob to the rear so the photog doesn't have to reach around the front for it. Yes, you would have to reach around for the mount locking knob, but you'll be using that much less than the panning knob. Do NOT mount the camera transversely across the plate (so the camera blocks the bubble level). Doing so will result in a loss of elevation control when you roll the camera into a vertical position (i.e., when not using an L-bracket). This is a bit of brain-teaser unless you have a three-armed tripod head in front of you to experiment with it. If you do, you will quickly find that each knob is meant to control a specific movement (rotation, elevation/declination, and tilt or roll). When the camera is mounted the wrong way on the plate, the roles of two of the knobs are reversed, and you'll have a problem (loss of elevation control) when you flip the camera vertically (without an L-bracket).
@@davegrenier1160 I have one of these and I think you are correct. The locking knob should be in front of the camera. I use a RRS L bracket with this and it works very well.
James Crawford yeah they are although I do prefer my Lee system. They’re a bit too over engineered to be honest, filters are great just not that keen on the holder
@@LeePengellyPhotography It was the holder I was taken with, I have a Nisi system and not happy with the clip that holds the filter holder to the lens ring
James Mason Yes it does offer the same movements as standard pan and tilt heads. I tend to use an L bracket personally but do use it in portrait position with my other camera
I found The review on the geared head. It turns out that I’ve actually saw this one already. The device on which I viewed the tripod review (TV via Apple TV)may have been the main factor to seeing the link. All was well when on my phone. As a note: I found that Apple TV lends itself to links at the video at the end of videos more so than mid-video. I’m so interested that I’ll investigate it again with this video.
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
Thank you . This is the only comprehensive GD3WH review I've found that wasn't just basic specs. Your demonstration of how you use it helps.
MrFreakwent Glad the review was of help, thankyou for your comment 😊
Nothing like trying to get your tripod set up on slick, barnacled tidal pool rocks waiting for that perfect wave to photograph and your ball head slips a little bit, you hurriedly try to get it level again and the best wave has passed you by. Really love this gearhead you reviewed. Excellent review and presentation, loved that seascape photo and your panorama shot! Subbed and gave the bell a ring!
William Mcdonald thankyou William much appreciated 😉
An explanation of the spring-loaded quick release knobs and the secure locking of the top plate would be helpful. Also, your great still frame photos: the zoom out in post editing detracts from the full sized images - better with just fades. I wanted to see the compositions. 👍😎🇳🇿✨
@@davidthompson3136 Yes in hindsight I should have explained that, still using that head to this day by the way. Noted on the other point 👍
Thank you for the review. I ordered mine from Amazon. I'm an astrophotographer. Precision is key!
Excellent choice let me know how you get on with it.
Hi
Great review. I just received one. I find that the knobs are stiff to move and do not have a fine adjustments as you need some force to turn them, resulting in jumping movements. The unlocking wheels have springs which return them as I try to unlock to make for easier movements of the adjustment knobs. I guess I am doing something wrong or perhaps something is wrong with the copy I got. Thanks.
I remember mine being a little tight at first but after a few uses it was fine. It shouldn’t be clunky though. If you keep having problems I would contact Benro
At the 2 minute mark, I notice when you touched the camera there was a slight movement. Once you set the gears to your position you want, do the (star knobs) tighten to lock everything down.... I love the precise movements but I wanted to know if you can lock down all the knobs so not movement if you accidentally touch the camera... Thanks for a great video..
Yes you’re right from memory I think I knocked the camera but the head was locked down. You do need to make sure it’s aligned within the grooves though as there is a tendency to knock it
Will this mount tip up for astro/solar work or is +30' the limit? I'm interested in photographic eclipses where the Sun/Moon could be close to zenith (straight up).
I’m not sure to be honest I’ve never tried an Astro mount. It’s more suited for architecture work
How far does the vertical axis travel go? Can you tilt it up 90 degrees? I want to use this for astrophotography and i need to be able to tilt it up at least beyond 45 degrees.
Not sure on the exact spec for this but I have tried it at 90 degrees, depending on what camera you use you can put the camera on back to front as it were to achieve this.
@@LeePengellyPhotography makes sense, just turn it around and voila. Just ordered a copy, can't wait for it to arrive!
@@aerozg ah great you won’t be disappointed
Hi Lee,
I am starting with large format photography and thought I might get a geared tripodhead.
Would you still recommend the Benro?
Sunwayfoto also have nice ones like the GH-Pro which holds upto 12kg, a bit more expansive.
Thanks.
Definitely it’s more than adequate for LF
Anyone use this with an rb67? the top knob looks like it might get in the way of the camera body
I’ve used it with a Bronica SQA and a large format camera and no issues. I’m guessing because the back rotates on the 67, not entirely sure
@@LeePengellyPhotography does the knob protrude passed the top of the arca swiss compatible plate?
@@itachi_shakur893 To be honest I can’t remember but don’t think so. I’m pretty sure the quick release plate is higher than the knob
What spacer would you recommend between the tripod base and the head, thanks.
I just use the one supplied with the tma38cl tripod
Good review - very helpful - Just one question that I seem unable to find an answer for, is:- Does the centre axis of the head rotate over the centre of the triopod?
I cannot find an image that actually proves that it does.
Tim Evans Hi Tim. It does when the camera is placed horizontally in landscape format but once flipped up into portrait mode it doesn’t. I use an L- bracket 90% of the time so not an issue
@@LeePengellyPhotography Thanks for such a prompt reply. Thats good to know because I want to use it for panoramas. I will also be using an L bracket as well.
Also there have been some reports concerning 'slop' in the mechanism after a while - how is yours holding up, any problems?
Tim Evans I’ve been using it all the time for the past year and a half, including travelling with it and no problems. When the mechanisms are employed it sometimes ends up in a notch in the gearing so need to make sure it’s fully turned ( hope that makes sense 🤔), it’s not a fault just the gear mechanism. Absolutely no slackening though
@@LeePengellyPhotography Good to hear
What is the brand of your filter holder?
@@mordavian In this video I was using the Benro filter system I think. But I switched to Kase filters a number of years ago
@@LeePengellyPhotography I have the same tripod and want to use the filter system on EF 16-35 F4. Thank you.
@ Ive been using Kase filters for a while now and they are very good
@@LeePengellyPhotography circular?
@@mordavian Circular magnetic polariser and BW filters then 100mm grads and Nds
This looks like a sturdy head...i have been using a 3 way manfrotto but there is a slight bit of play...i have read up on the B3 ballhead that is advertised with the tripod, but it appears there is no level built in with that, whereas there is in the GD3 ...good vids Lee
David Christie Well worth getting it’s solid and no play whatsoever
@@LeePengellyPhotography good... what is the weight ratio to the B3 please...thanks!
David Christie The weight the head will take ?
@@LeePengellyPhotography walking/hiking weight ? Any difference or not ? Thanks
David Christie The GD3WH is way lighter and much easier on the shoulders !😉
Will this just screw onto the same screw my current hed was on?
Vietnam Vet Yes, the quick release plate to camera is a standard 1/4 thread and the head itself has a standard 3/8 thread same as manfrotto
@@LeePengellyPhotography thanks
Hi Lee,
May I ask which L bracket you used with this head and did it fit correctly?
Thank you in advanced.
MrAWphoto Hi, yes it’s called the Pig Iron L bracket, bought it on Amazon. It does fit but I’ve moved it slightly to allow for my cable release
thanks. still like this head?
i ordered one months ago and the backorder finally filled. i am moving over from a Manfrotto 410 Jr. geared head.
are the oblong "pill" spirit levels on the clamp crooked? one of mine is glued in really crooked which kind of defeats the purpose.
Im not sure, checked mine and seems ok. Although I prefer to level the camera myself using the built in leveller.
With this head, are you able to level the base whether or not the tripod is perfectly level? As if one is on a really uneven ground?
storysupport There are 3 levels on the top section of the head however I tend to use levels on my camera but yes I guess you can level the tripod/head combo before fixing the camera.
Cool.
My ideal is that I will still have he ability to execute an evenly balanced panoramic image, even when on an uncompromising surface.
Therefore, If I can setup a tripod and the base upon which the head is mounted is tilted/not level, and still arrange it so the rotation of the camera isn’t on a tilted slope. That’ll be great!
storysupport It’s great for panos, loads of control and fine tuning between each shot
Turns out that I would actually need THIS separate piece to do what I was describing:
www.benroeu.com/products/benro-lba2.aspx
To quote Will Smith from Independence Day..."I have got to get me one of these". This should work a whole lot better with my macro work.
I used to hate the Benro (got it as a last minute buy after I broke my Manfrotto 405). I do not like the fact that you have to swing the camera RIGHT in order to shoot vertically, but that's just me. In order to swing LEFT you have to lock the camera "backwards" on the head, in other words with the locking knob facing forward. It's odd but it works. I actually find the Benro gears much more precise and way smoother than the Manfrotto's. Plus it's way lighter. We'll find out if it holds the test of time... BTW I do not use the small Benro plate, mine is an Arcatech and it's been fine.
ChuckMarteau I’m using an L bracket now with this head, makes life a lot easier
Lee Pengelly Photography good suggestion!
The locking knob is supposed to be in front for two reasons. First, it puts the bubble level behind the camera where the photographer can see it, and second because that brings the traversing knob to the rear so the photog doesn't have to reach around the front for it. Yes, you would have to reach around for the mount locking knob, but you'll be using that much less than the panning knob.
Do NOT mount the camera transversely across the plate (so the camera blocks the bubble level). Doing so will result in a loss of elevation control when you roll the camera into a vertical position (i.e., when not using an L-bracket). This is a bit of brain-teaser unless you have a three-armed tripod head in front of you to experiment with it. If you do, you will quickly find that each knob is meant to control a specific movement (rotation, elevation/declination, and tilt or roll). When the camera is mounted the wrong way on the plate, the roles of two of the knobs are reversed, and you'll have a problem (loss of elevation control) when you flip the camera vertically (without an L-bracket).
@@davegrenier1160 I have one of these and I think you are correct. The locking knob should be in front of the camera. I use a RRS L bracket with this and it works very well.
Lee what is the filter holder you are using?
James Crawford hi James it’s the Benro FH100m2 system
@@LeePengellyPhotography They look a very secure holder
James Crawford yeah they are although I do prefer my Lee system. They’re a bit too over engineered to be honest, filters are great just not that keen on the holder
@@LeePengellyPhotography It was the holder I was taken with, I have a Nisi system and not happy with the clip that holds the filter holder to the lens ring
Hi Lee, how does the work with your Intrepid 5x4? Is it solid enough, and strong enough, to hold that camera? Thanks.
Monty Craig Hi Monty, yes definitely. Not only is it sturdy enough but gives much more precise control of camera movements. Well worth the investment.
Yeah love it. Still my first choice over a ball head
I think the tilt handle is supposed to pointing towards yourself
Chris C Hi, no this is right as the top knob doesn’t fit under the front of a camera/lens combo. I find this works for me
@@LeePengellyPhotography Oh ok great! I guess you can use it several ways.
Chris C Yes I guess it depends on which camera and lens combo you have and also what you get used to.
I guess you can’t shoot in portrait orientation with this.
James Mason Yes it does offer the same movements as standard pan and tilt heads. I tend to use an L bracket personally but do use it in portrait position with my other camera
He uses it in portrait mode.
I found The review on the geared head. It turns out that I’ve actually saw this one already.
The device on which I viewed the tripod review (TV via Apple TV)may have been the main factor to seeing the link. All was well when on my phone.
As a note: I found that Apple TV lends itself to links at the video at the end of videos more so than mid-video.
I’m so interested that I’ll investigate it again with this video.
Just checked again and my suspicion is confirmed. The mid-video pop up links do not show on Apple TV.
A blatant copy of the Manfrotto 410, not unlike Benro of course.
dude you yaped for a minute and nothing came out of your mouth
TrapezUSA yay my first negative comment 😂😂👍
Just ordered my self 1 can’t wait for it to come......😉
Absolutely brilliant by the way...
thanks for sharing...👍🏼😉😎
Daddyof13 Thankyou 😉
You won’t be disappointed