The Novoflex BasicBall is essentially a "do-it-yourself" tripod base that can be configured into practically any kind of set-up. The main component is a hemispherical metal piece with nine threaded 1/4"-20 holes in it that allows the height to be fixed at 2.4", 5.7", or 8.3". With additional extension legs, the maximum height is 13". The BasicBall is designed for all ground level photography and its maximum load capacity is 55 lbs.
Into these holes, you can screw one rod to make a monopod, two to make a "duopod," or three to make a tripod. To this you can add more rods to support flash and accessories. Basically, you can build just the right support for the job at hand. Basic rods can be screwed together for more length, or you can use optional telescoping rods.
| Maximum Height | 8.3" |
| Minimum Height | 2.4" |
| Load Capacity | 55 lbs |
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Reviewed by 4 customers
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Comments about Novoflex BasicBall (Blue) Tripod Head:
I mounted a Really Right Stuff B2 LLR II Quick-Release Clamp, fits perfectly. Works well for tight kitchen shots where a normal tripod does not fit. I have used it shooting travel stock with a Fuji x100 and it worked great. It is also rock solid when used with my D3 doing architectural work. Besides the obvious horizontal orientation the tripod does verticals by hand holding it against a solid wall. I was able to get sharp verticals using 4-10 sec exposure times. Columns are a great vertical supports as they allow easy adjustment of your POV. By adjusting one leg you can shoot on and around square corners of a wall.The nine thread holds allow for easy height adjustment and by varying the leg placement you can tilt up or down. I did have one leg get stuck, had to use pliers to get it free. After apply a bit of Vaseline to the threads I have not had that problem again.Playing with all the configurations I found that you can almost get it to do a horizontal orientation on a vertical surface by using two of the threaded holes around circumference and third of the three regular threaded holes. Unfortunately the third leg needs to be longer or the holes repositioned. I would think with a product so well built would have a better design allowing both vertical and horizontal orientation. I don't go anywhere without it.
Pros
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Comments about Novoflex BasicBall (Blue) Tripod Head:
This is a well made, rock solid tripod. Love the design. My only complaint is that for this price the tripod should come with a pouch to store the tripod in as when it is broken apart it's in four pieces. I would have given this item five stars if it came with a pouch. Other than that it's great. Probably the most stable tripod out there.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Novoflex BasicBall (Blue) Tripod Head:
This is just a beautifully thought-out product. Standard threads are used, including the inside of the bolt holding the camera body / big lens. Everything is held _very_ securely.
The recessed holes in the hemi-sphere provide a useful 'starting point' to quickly screw in the legs. The top of the hemi-sphere has a rubberised surface to avoid the camera body spinning around.
If I had to pick a "fault", it would be that novoflex don't provide a coin to tighten the bolt through the hemi-shpere. [Irony off]
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Novoflex BasicBall (Blue) Tripod Head:
I was looking for a strong stable mini tripod that can meet the following requirements:
a.) Must handle the weight of my Canon 40D with EF 'L' lens and flash attached.
b.) Able to use indoor/outdoor and on different surfaces.
c.) Small enough to fit into my bag.
I was worried about the high price. However, I was very happy that I purchased it. For a Canon Camera and EF 'L' lens of over $3000.00+ sitting on a $114.00 mini tripod is well worth the price! You really don't want your $3K+ equipment falling over during a strong wind.
Also, I am using this more than my tripod and monopod.
This mini tripod really takes great pictures from ground level.
Displaying reviews 1-4