These images compare an older 2004 era Gitzo Series 2 G1228 and a modern Series 3 GT3541LS. Both 4 section. Tripod height was about 52", the maximum height of the G1228.

All images 1/10s f/8 ISO 100. Shot with a wireless remote. D300 camera (without grip), 70-200 f/2.8 AFS/VR lens.

Includes images shot with Mirror Up, S mode and S mode with exposure delay mode.

All images from raw files rendered to TIF in Capture NX2.2 using stock Standard picture control. The composite was saved as a highest quality JPG at 100% pixels.

The Mirror Up shots should be considered reference images. Any differences in the Mup should be attributed to minor focusing variations.
Each set of 3 images was focused using LiveView tripod mode contrast detection and then switched to manual focus mode to lock focus for the 3 images.

Although the Series 3 significantly improves the S mode images even the Series 3 has a small amount of blur, thus illustrating that within reason you can not overkill your support. It also illustrates the importance of good technique regardless of the tripod. For focal lengths higher than 200mm this is even more true, and that includes adding a TC to the 70-200.
This is why I believe the Series 3 to be an ideal general use tripod for focal lengths, and the GT3541LS to be the ideal portable tripod.


Series 2 vs Series 3 2011-01-10.jpg