Vanguard GH-100 Pistol Grip Ball Head

A post by Valerie Jardin.

I’ve always preferred trigger-type ball heads than any other. I like the fact that I can quickly adjust my camera with the simple squeeze of a trigger.

I was pretty happy with the ball head I was using for food and interior photography when the Vanguard GH-100 came in the mail and totally redefined my idea of how a pistol grip should feel. First, let me tell you that you can’t help but be impressed the minute you open the box. It is sturdy, and you can feel that right away when you hold it in your hands. I quickly attached it to my tripod and put it to good use. The Vanguard GH-100 will fit on most tripods with the included 1/4” to 3/8” screw adaptor.

First, I attached the flat-plate to my camera and checked the locking mechanism. I have had severals close calls with my previous ball head and almost lost thousands of dollars of gear because I thought the plate was properly locked and it wasn’t. The orange latch of the GH-100 locks the plate automatically when you place the camera on the ball head and it has consistently locked my camera in place (but I always make a point to double check that it is secure). Once locked your precious gear is definitely safe with this mount.

One thing that is quite unique with this pistol grip is the fact that the ergonomic handle can rotate and move into different positions. To shoot stills I like it down. But you can easily adjust its position to what feels most comfortable for the type of photo shoot you are doing or for video.

The GH-100 features a tightening adjustment at the end of the handle to allow for the ball head to move freely without using the trigger function if it’s loosened. Or to trigger release and lock if tightened.

You can switch easily and rapidly from landscape to portrait mode or even shoot straight down simply by pulling the trigger, moving the ball head into one of the notches and release to lock securely in place.

Another great feature of the GH-100 is the panoramic head that allows for a 360° movement of the platform for 72-click panoramic photography with a simple click and lock function.

If you use a bubble level, there is one on the Vanguard GH-100 but you can only check it when your camera is off the mount. If you are accustomed to checking the level during the shoot, I would recommend installing one on your camera hot shoe.

Now that I have experienced the quality and functionality of the Vanguard GH-100 pistol grip, I am not planning on taking it off my tripod anytime soon… Not until I replace my old tripod for a Vanguard maybe…

You can learn more about the Vanguard GH-100 and their other line of fine products by visiting their website at www.vanguardworld.com – or get a price on it at Amazon on their Vanguard GH-100 page.

Connect with Valerie on Facebook or Twitter @valeriejardin or visit her website http://www.valeriejardinphotography.com.

Summary

Reviewer

Valerie Jardin

Review Date

2011-01-14