Just recently, Vanguard launched a new line of travel tripods with an impressive set of features. Called the VEO 3 GO, this line was engineered for light weight and compact size. To match the active lifestyle of the modern photographer, each tripod in the VEO 3 GO series features a detachable monopod (that can also be used as a selfie stick), a cell phone mount, and a Bluetooth remote.
There are three tripods in the series, each available in your choice of carbon fibre or aluminum, for a total of 6 models in three versions, differentiated by their extended height, folded length, and load bearing capabilities.
The Vanguard 3 GO 235AB sits in the middle of the pack. With a closed length of just 330mm (13 inches) and a maximum height of 1360mm (53.54 inches), this tripod can support up to 4 kg (8.8 pounds) of equipment, which is plenty for travellers or hikers. The aluminum version weighs 1240g (2.73 pounds), while the carbon fibre version is a bit lighter at 1080g (2.38 pounds).
Each tripod ships with a ball-head. The 235AB comes equipped with the T-50 head, striking a good balance between load capacity and size. Despite its compact size, this head offers independent panning and is Arca-Swiss compatible. The knobs and controls are easy to operate; we really like the lever-style knobs as opposed to circular ones – they are quick and precise. The panning base can be completely locked, which is not always the case with ball heads.
The legs can be locked in three positions. One of the legs can be unscrewed and joined to the removable center column to become a full-height monopod. In addition to the rubber feet, the tripod ships with spiked feet for extra stability when desired. The twist leg locks only require a short rotation to lock or release.
The center column is designed with two sections. This provides an advantage over most travel tripods as the column can go down into the apex (often, on smaller tripods, the centre column cannot be switched to a downward mode). Thanks to this feature, the tripod can be stored with the legs oriented up or down.
There is a removable hook at the base of the centre column, to hang your bag or some weight for added stability. The reversible centre column can also be replaced with a short column, included with each of the 235AB tripods for low angle photos.
The VEO 3 GO tripods ship with some useful accessories. Among the most innovative features of the series is the cell phone mount, which screws into an Arca-Swiss plate. Another useful feature is a Bluetooth remote which clips to the legs so you can trigger your smartphone for selfies. The VEO 3 GO tripods come with a set of hex keys for the various adjustments. I keep the keys in a small bag, in the tripod case.
The VEO 3 GO series tripods are among the lightest and smallest full-length tripods on the market and offer innovative design elements and features that are unique to the Vanguard brand. These tripods strike an excellent balance and will be welcome in the kit of any photographer.
For more information, please visit www.vanguardphoto.ca/product-category/tripods/?filter_series=veo-3-go
About the Author – Bernard Déry
Living in Eastern Canada, Bernard is an optical designer working in the photonics industry. He is also a seasoned reviewer of photographic equipment, using his training in physics to test lenses, cameras and various accessories. Bernard’s photographic interests include studio and portrait, travel, landscape and cityscape, particularly at night. More of his work can be seen on his website.
Vivant au Québec, Bernard est un concepteur optique et travaille dans l’industrie de la photonique. Il est aussi un habitué des tests d’équipement photo, utilisant sa formation en physique pour évaluer des objectifs, caméras et accessoires. Les intérêts photo de Bernard incluent le studio et le portrait, le voyage, les paysages et l’architecture, en particulier la nuit tombée. On peut voir ses créations sur son site.
