Oben AT-3565 Aluminum Tripod and BZ-217T Triple-Action Ball Head

Time-Lapse Tips and Tools

The AT-3565 Aluminum Tripod and BZ-217T Triple-Action Ball Head from Oben is a 5-section support, which has twist locks that open and close with just a quarter turn. Each section extends along with the center column to a maximum height of 61.8″. With three variable leg angles, it allows you to splay the legs out and replace the regular center column with the included low-angle center column, so the tripod can go to a minimum height of 9.1″ to help with macro photography.

To store or transport the tripod, the legs fold in the reverse to create a compact 16.1″ tripod. Furthermore, one leg is detachable and can convert into a working monopod with a maximum height of 64.1″. Each rubber foot retracts back to expose a metal spike that can be wedged into softer terrain for extra support and stability.

The Arca-type BZ-217T ball head, which includes the QR-20 quick release plate, can support cameras that weigh up to 20 lb and can easily position the camera at a 90° angle because of the cut notch on the side of the head. There are three knobs on the ball head; one to control the movement of the ball, the second allows you to rotate and pan a full 360°, and the distinguishable knob in the middle of the other two knobs enables you to dial-in more tension to the ball. Thus, the drag of the ball is intensified and less creep is involved if more weight is added.

User Manual

2.0 MB

5-Section Tripod Legs

The aluminum telescoping legs open and close by turning the twist locks a quarter turn.

Variable Leg Angles

The legs lock at three different angles for stable support on uneven terrain or at low angles. The leg angle adjustment lock also allows the legs to fold up 180° to a compact size for transport or storage.

Two Center Columns

The rapid center column, which is reversible, extends and locks into place via its twist lock. An included low-angle center column allows you to get those macro shots that are close to the ground.

Integrated Monopod

The tripod’s detachable leg converts into a working monopod with a maximum height of 64.1″.

Triple Action Ball Head

The Arca-type BZ-217T ball head, which includes the QR-20 quick release plate, can support cameras that weigh up to 20 lb. The head features three knobs, one to control the movement of the ball, one for the pan, and the tension control knob to add or decrease drag on the ball.

Bubble Level

The integrated bubble level on the ball head enables you to accurately align your horizon within the camera’s viewfinder.

Spiked Feet

The retractable rubber feet expose spikes that can be driven into softer terrain to add stability and rigidness to the tripod.