Which Tripod?

[EvilWeevil]

I'd be using pretty compact stuff for now, probably a average-sized MiniDV cam as budgets just don't stretch to big things

In terms of money, I'm open - I couldn't really suggest as I have no real experience in buying tripods. I've just used an old one from time to time.

[fuddam]

A bit of a n00b question - if I want a tripod to do filming with do I have to specifically get somethign with smooth panning or can most tripods do that anyway? Any recommendations would be appreciated.

just remember that oil damping is better than teflon, and most of the cheaper heads use the latter. Oil makes for less stiction (the stickiness when starting a pan / tilt)

always better to spend more and get better shots. If only for hobby use, it might not be such an issue.

I use the manfrotto MN503 - you could try the 501 too. try www.compositevideo.co.uk or www.canford.co.uk for some prices, if not ebaying. always give the beast a test run too - not just buying from a picture.

[EvilWeevil]

Cheers all

[hoodmeister]

oil 'pods tend to be far more user servicable, too.