As a Videographer do I need a tripod and head

As you know, video has changed radically over the past few years, with even lighter and more compact cameras producing broadcast-quality HD footage. With new equipment opening up new ways to film and encouraging film-makers, videographers and former photographers to cross over their outdated boundaries, comes a need for new supports to match these ambitions.
Do I need a tripod?
Using a tripod when using a camcorder will dramatically help picture quality as it will allow you to pan smoothly making your movies look much more professional. A tripod can also really help by making you slow down and think about the film you are taking and getting the framing right. With a tripod you can also get your camera into places and film angles you might not otherwise reach. Many tripods have the ability to let you place the camera anywhere from just inches off the ground to way above eye level.
When you're in the studio, the tripod frees you from the camera, and allows you to concentrate on the lighting of your subjects knowing that the camera is both secure and in the right place.
What is the best tripod for my video kit?
Manfrotto Video Support Systems are more than a wide range of solid and user friendly products for video: Manfrotto provides a robust, world-renowned range of professional video solutions supporting you in every condition. With a wide range of fluid heads with a counterbalance system and a complete range of video tripods, Manfrotto can offer a perfectly suited kit for all user needs. In addition, Manfrotto offers a complete set of fluid video monopods and alternative supports for when you want to be faster than ever without losing efficiency. Manfrotto also offer a large family of accessories, remote controls, arms, clamps, bags and straps and more. Manfrotto: complete professional imaging support solutions inspired and crafted by Italian creativity. If you want a tripod, but you aren’t sure which one is best for you, then Manfrotto's tripod configuration tool is a great place to start. Based on your choices, the configurater identifies suitable heads and tripods to suit you and can guide you through the Manfrotto catalogue according to your photography needs. Visit www.manfrotto.co.uk for more information.
Does it matter what head I use on my tripod?
Yes!
The Manfrotto 504HD Systems video support system has been developed specifically for the latest camcorders and the new generation of DSLR-V cameras as well as their matching video accessories. 504HD systems are built around the new 504HD video head: the perfect balance of design and performance, even in the toughest conditions.
The 504HD is the result of an important technical evolution - the perfect synthesis between an innovative “bridge architecture” and Manfrotto’s cutting edge engineering: Bridging Technology is an exclusive Manfrotto patent. A new bridge leading the videographer and photographer to ever better results with today’s high-definition cameras.
Unique features for unique footage:
- Wider, longer platform for your camera and accessories.
- High rigidity structure delivers maximum response and strength.
- Ergonomic controls for easy use in all conditions.
- Easy-link connections for accessories.
- 4-step counterbalance system ensures a quick set-up with optimal balance.
- Ball Bearing drag system for precise, smooth movements.
- Light weight modern materials for optimum balance of strength and weight.
All the structural components are made from aluminium, with the PAN axis rotation unit using ball bearings to obtain smooth, totally vibration-free controlled movements that can be directly adjusted using the head’s FDS variable friction system. FDS on both the PAN and TILT axes also ensures that the head works perfectly at all temperatures, with all types of equipment and under all loads.
The 504HD has been designed to offer a load capacity of up to 7.5kg (16.5lb) making it suitable for a huge range of camera equipment. The CBS counterbalance system has 4 presets for a full range of camera weights
Levelling the head is made easy thanks to the 75mm diameter hemisphere and the back-lit bubble level. Two 3/8” threads on the top plate allow accessories (such as monitors and arms) to be directly and securely attached to the head, which helps cut down set-up time, keeping your camera hot shoe free and, saves you from using another clamp.
The 504HD is suitable for Manfrotto PRO series video tripods with mid-level (504HD,546BK) or ground spreaders (504HD,546GBK) and for carbon fibbre single-leg MPRO tripods (504HD,535K and 504HD,536K).