First test PRICE: £235
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Benro Cyanbird The Benro Cyanbird combines style and substance, elevating the photo game. We explore its features and put it to the test
TESTED BY ROGER PAYNE
I’ve always seen a tripod as a strictly functional item; something that folds up and down quickly, before holding my camera steady when I need it to. But then I met Benro’s Cyanbird and I’ve seen an alternative. This is a tripod that’s not only functional, it looks damn good too. It’s hard to put my finger on why I like the way it looks so much. Maybe it’s the subtle blue colouring on the castings, or perhaps it’s the style and operation of the satin aluminium quick-release leg locks. Mind you, those carbon-fibre top leg sections look great as well. Collectively, these touches make for a very pleasingly designed camera support – a fact that’s further enhanced by its small folded size (just 6cm in diameter), created by the arch-profile legs that wrap in a satisfying way around the centre column.
“FORTUNATELY, THE CYANBIRD IS MORE THAN JUST A PRETTY FACE” head and use the key to undo the screw inside the 3/8-inch base mount thread – it’s all done in less than a minute. The allen key can also be used to tighten the legs. The N00P ball head features an Arca quick-release plate and integral bubble level – there’s also one in the leg section. A single locking mechanism releases both the ball and the panning mechanism, which caught me out occasionally. Wanting to pan the head, I’d release the lock only for the camera to slump forward. Make sure you’re holding on to your camera before undoing the lock! Folded down, the Cyanbird measures just 46cm, extending over 1.5m at full height, or 1.32m with the centre column down. There are also several 1/4-inch accessory threads on the top casting and centre column – handy for attached accessory arms in macro lighting or for vlogging.
Of course, visuals are not the be- all and end-all, and fortunately the Cyanbird is more than just a pretty face. Capable of supporting almost four times its own 1.05kg weight, I trialled it with a variety of cameras, including the GFX100 II tested elsewhere in this issue. It did the job for the medium format camera, but it’s better suited to a more modestly proportioned mirrorless model. The five-section legs offer good stability, though only the top sections are carbon fibre; the remaining four are aluminium, reducing overall weight. The rubberised feet grip to a variety of surfaces well, plus the legs can be angled for ground-level shooting. To work low down, the centre column needs to be removed, which is a reasonably involved process. Removing the hook at the base of the column reveals the concealed 3mm allen key. Now unscrew the ball CYAN’D AND SECURE Supporting nearly four times its weight, the Cyanbird ensures stability in photo endeavours
SPECS › Weight 1.05kg › Closed length 46cm › Leg sections Five › Maximum height (column extended) 155cm › Maximum height (column retracted) 132cm › Maximum payload 4kg › Head type Ball head with Arca-type QR plate
LOCK ’N LOAD The locking mechanism can catch you out! Take care when releasing
Verdict The Cyanbird is a fine travel companion; I even like the roll-up bag that comes with it, storing both tripod and miscellaneous bits and bobs. I have an overseas trip coming up and already plan to make space in my suitcase to take my attractive three- legged friend along. PROS Looks great, good range of features, handles well, smart design CONS Single control on ball head can catch you out
SCENIC HEIGHTS The Benro Cyanbird works great when capturing natural landscapes at ground level, owing to its innovative design. With adjustable arch-profile legs and rubberised feet providing sturdy support on diverse terrains, it ensures stability even when the surface is rugged
46 Photography News | Issue 113
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