This Is How Your Tripod Was Made

Tripods are, quite literally, a solid foundation upon which you can create your photography, but have you ever wondered how they’re made?  Assuming you’re not using a fancy carbon fiber tripod, it was probably something like this.

In this video, the Science Channel takes us through the workflow of the Manfrotto assembly line to demonstrate the construction of their 190 Series tripods.

Starting with long anodized aluminum tubes, they are cut to the required lengths for each section of the legs.

The logo is then laser etched into one of the leg tubes, turning it white.

Legwarmers are added through the use of a specialised vacuum machine.

Once the tubes for each leg are nested, the locking hardware, quick release levers and feet are fitted.

With the leg sections complete, they’re connected to the spreader.

Then the head is then constructed and mounted to the center support column.

Inserting the center column through the spreader and checking the mechanism works the final step before tightening that last bolt.

Thanks to a lot of specialised machinery, quality engineering, and a skilled workforce, the video makes it look like a simple and effortless process.

If you want a bit more of a challenge, you can always have a go at making your own tripod, too, although I would imagine this one might be a bit too heavy for long walks.

[via bokeh]