Macro photography is a specialist subject that allows photographers immense creativity. Using specialized macro lenses to take unbelievably detailed photos of close-up objects requires skill, imagination, and a reliable set of camera equipment.
Using tripods for macro photography is incredibly important. As you are focusing on objects in fine detail, your camera must be stable. Moreover, larger apertures are generally used meaning a shallower depth of field.
To that end, any movement of your camera could cause your image to be out of focus. A tripod provides much-needed stability. Moreover, it allows you to carefully set the scene, and use a remote shutter release.
In this guide we look at some of the best tripods for macro photography – these essential items will help improve the quality of your images and give you greater flexibility.
1. Benro FGP18A SystemGo Plus
Our top choice is the Benro FGP18A SystemGo Plus. One of the best features of this tripod is the versatile center column – it has 180-degree rotation and can be placed in a number of different positions.
The legs are made from aluminum and have rubber grips on the feet. This combination of durability and grip provides the perfect base of stability for your macro photography.
The tripod has a maximum extension height of 60.6 inches, but we feel it is more suitable for low-level macro photography when you are closer to the ground and subject.
2. Dolica AX620B100
This stylish Proline tripod from Dolica is made from aluminum and ideal for macro photography, but also general indoor and outdoor usage too. It can be used with any type of camera from simple point-and-shoot cameras to a full-frame DSLR. It has a maximum load capacity of 6kg.
The Dolica AX620B100 ball-head has full 360-degree rotation, and 90-degree vertical rotation – this gives excellent flexibility when setting up your macro shots. Additionally, the head has a quick release feature and a bubble level.
The legs are sturdy and made from aluminum – they also have rubber feet that offer excellent grip and stability. With an extension range of 21.5 inches to 62 inches, this is a fantastic tripod that is also affordable.
3. Manfrotto MT055XPRO3
Manfrotto is one of the leading manufacturers of tripods. They are renowned for producing quality items like the Manfrotto MT055XPRO3. This tripod from the 055 Series offers fantastic stability and is a robust model with durable legs and head mount.
It accommodates a payload of 9kg which can accommodate any modern DSLR or mirrorless camera with a heavy, high-quality macro lens.
In addition to this, it has a 0-degree column combined with four different leg angles which allows you to place your camera in any position imaginable. The legs are made of aluminum and are unbelievably rigid – as one of the best tripods for macro photography, the Manfrotto 055 offers unparalleled stability for your compositions.
4. Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AB100
Vanguard has an excellent range of tripods for macro photography and the Alta Pro 2+ 263AB100 is one of the best options available. It looks amazing and has a high degree of functionality.
The ball-head is fully rotatable and features a multi-angle center column. This means that you can place the center column in a number of different positions providing unrivaled flexibility for your macro shots. Those hard to reach outdoor places will prove no issue with this device.
Moreover, the ball-head has two bubble levels and can rotate horizontally 360-degrees. The legs are rigid but easy to move and position – they can be moved into four different position angles which further increases the utility of this tripod.
5. Gitzo GT1545T Series 1 Traveler
If you want to splash out and purchase one of the best tripods for macro photography, the Gitzo GT1545T Series 1 Traveler tripod is an excellent choice. Although this model is much more expensive than other devices in this list, it has amazing quality and functionality.
Made from carbon fiber, the legs and head are durable but also lightweight. Moreover, the legs have sturdy rubber grips that provide brilliant rigidity when place on uneven surfaces. This tripod is excellent for outdoor macro photography, and macro photography while traveling.
If you intend to travel frequently with a tripod, this Gitzo model could be a perfect choice.
6. Benro Mach3 TMA37C (Best Budget Option)
As a cheaper alternative to the Gitzo Series 1, the Benro Mach3 Series is another durable and well-built carbon fiber tripod.
With a carrying capacity of 35.3lbs (16kg), this sturdy tripod can support any full-frame DSLR camera with a heavy-duty macro lens. Moreover, the carbon fiber legs have been created with layers to provide a perfect weight ratio for supporting heavy devices.
The legs also have screw-in rubber feet which offer excellent grip. Each leg can be moved independently allowing you to position the tripod on uneven surfaces easily.
This is certainly one of the best tripods for macro photography available and again is a great option for outdoor usage and traveling.
Improve Your Macro Photography with the Aid of a Specialized Tripod
When choosing the best tripods for macro photography, consider the following:
- Camera mount
- Extension length
- Additional rotatable arm
- Leg material
In most instances, the camera mount should be universal. However, the degree of movement and rotation will vary. Ideally, you want a mount that has 360-degree rotation horizontally, and a high degree of vertical rotation too.
The quality and build of the legs are also vital. Tripod legs provide stability – the essential factor for macro photography. The legs should be sturdy and made from durable material; there should also be some form of feet attachments with a grip too.
The beauty of these tripods for macro photography is that you can use them for a variety of purposes. They are not just limited to macro photography. Indeed, many of the products listed make fantastic travel tripods and are just great for general usage.
