Read the online version at http://www.cathayphoto.com.sg/viewfinder/read/2007,12,7

Manfrotto’s 055 tripod has long been prized by many photographers as a reliable and faithful companion in their photographic pursuits, be it in the studio or the great wide outdoors. It is strong, sturdy and versatile, providing steady support and enabling photographers to position their cameras wherever and however they wanted.

This classic from Manfrotto has now become part of Manfrotto’s X-Generation collection. It has been totally updated and redesigned to improve performance and aesthetics and makes use of the cutting-edge technology available today.

The 055XPROB makes the famous Manfrotto-patented horizontal centre column feature even easier and faster to use. With the 055XPROB, switching the column from a vertical to horizontal position is a real doddle. All you need to do is extend the column to its highest vertical position and it can then be swung over to the horizontal position without the need to remove the head or to disassemble the column itself. It works like a dream, making switching between framing and positioning setups more convenient than ever.

The ergonomics of the leg angle release mechanism and the quick action leg locks themselves have also been vastly improved. The locks are easier to use and more secure, giving the double benefit of being easier to deploy and adjust as well as improved rigidity.

Weighing just 2.4 kg and with a collapsed length of 65.5 cm, the Manfrotto 055XPROB is sufficiently light and compact to take along on your shoots. Fully extended, it reaches 178.5 cm, providing a very comfortable working position without your having to hunch down to look through the viewfinder which can be very stressful if you’re working over long periods. Able to support loads of up to 7.0 kg, the 055XPROB is robust enough to support an SLR with a long and fast telephoto lens attached.

Manfrotto’s 055XPROB clearly shows us that there’s more to a tripod than just three telescopic legs and a centre column. With its versatility and totally reliable performance, it can help us get just the shot we want. What’s more, coming from a country renowned for stunning design, the 055XPROB is not just a joy to handle, but to behold as well.