Review of the best stands and cranes for a photography studio in 2020

Stands and cranes in photo studios play a huge role in taking photos or recording videos. They come in different parameters. The criteria for choosing stands and cranes are very diverse, but the main of them is the area of ​​the photo studio for which they are intended, and its parameters

List of major studio stands

Choosing the right stand for a photo studio is the main task of any photographer. There are general rules when choosing equipment for a photo studio, which you should pay attention to - product characteristics. Detailing each element will help you make the right decision.

In most cases, stands are needed for additional lighting in photographic studios. They are also used for other studio equipment.

All rack designs are similar to each other. They consist of two metal pipes, the diameter of one is always less than the diameter of the other. A tensioner with holes for fasteners is installed at the top, a platform crowns the pipe at the bottom, which serves as a support.

Stand "Tripod"

Simple stand with standard mount. Designed for lighting installations or video equipment. Most often, the frame of such a holder is made of aluminum and folds easily. Due to this feature, it weighs little, which makes it easy to take this design for outdoor photography. Such models are considered the most common due to their inexpensive prices.

Specifications

• Stand for photo and video studios.

Dimensions: minimum height - 2.16 m; maximum height - 53.5 cm; folded in height - 53.5 cm; leg circumference - 80 cm. Leg size: length - 47.5 cm; width - 1.6 cm.Diameter of sections (4 pcs.): 19 mm, 22 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm; tip - 5/8 inches. Screw thread - 3/8 ''; load - up to 1.5 kg; rack weight - 1.06 kg. Material - aluminum alloy. Average cost - 2480 rubles.

• Stand for cameras, photographic lights and softboxes.

Maximum height - 2 m; folded in height - 75 cm; leg swing circumference - 77 cm; leg size: length - 50 cm, width - 1.1 cm; section diameter (3 pcs.): 16 mm, 19 mm, 22 mm; carrying capacity - up to 2 kg; weight - 1 kg. Metal - aluminum alloy. Average cost - 4000 r.

• A black tripod for attaching flashes, light bulbs, reflectors, umbrellas, etc.

Dimensions: minimum height: 80.5 cm; maximum height: 2 m; lifting capacity: 2.5 kg; rubber feet provide extra grip on surfaces. Cost - 3350 r.

• A black tripod designed for video cameras.

Dimensions: minimum height: 1 m; maximum height: 2.6 m; lifting capacity: 6 kg; folded length 1 m; weight 2.1 kg. The alloy is aluminum. Cost - 1240 rubles.

• Stand for cameras, softboxes and photographic lights.

Max height - 2.6 m; min height - 1 m; folded in height - 93 cm; diameter of sections (3 pcs.): 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm; carrying capacity up to 10 kg; construction weight 1.6 kg. Material - aluminum. Black color. Average price - 8400 rubles.

• Stand for photographic lights.

Maximum height - 2 m; minimum height - 80 cm; folded length 70 cm; rack weight - 1 kg. Material - aluminum. Black color. Average cost - 4040 rubles.

• Stand for three sections in black.

Maximum height - 2.1 m; minimum height - 79 cm; pipe diameter - 25 mm, 19 mm, 22 mm; mount ¼ inch; material - aluminum. Cost - 1360 rubles.

• Stand in three sections: black.

Maximum height - 2 m; minimum height - 72 cm; rack weight - 1.2 kg; carrying capacity up to 5 kg; 1/4 inch mount; material - aluminum. Price - 1360 rubles. The package includes a carrying case with a clip, which allows you to transport the rack without any problems.

Stand for four black sections: maximum height - 3 m; minimum height - 86 cm; pipe diameter - 25 mm, 22 mm, 19 mm, 16 mm; 1/4 inch mount; material - aluminum alloy. Cost - 2670 r.

Manufacturers

The leading position among suppliers is occupied by Chinese products. In second place are Godox and Grifon. The Grifon company produces inexpensive racks, in relation to other companies.

List of rated manufacturers of photo studio stands:

• GreenBean;
• Fasdga (China);
• Godox (Russia);
• Fotulato (China).

Advantages and disadvantages

• Lightweight model;
• Universal stand in application;
• Inexpensive;
• Large selection in sizes.

• Insufficiently durable material;
• Low carrying capacity.

Stand "Tripod" telescopic with reversible legs

An improved model of a conventional rack. Its peculiarity lies in the reversible "legs".

A telescopic device is an oblong shape that contains two tubular parts: an inner and an outer. Connected parts can move horizontally. The internal element of the rack contains a wedge groove, which is located at the top and obliquely converges inward by the side walls. The outer part is a wedge element with inclined groove holes. The wedge groove can be adjusted in relation to the longitudinal position of the upright legs and clamped. This allows you to adjust the stability of the rack on any surface.

Such a rack is used in photo studios or video studios. Designed for installation in studios of lighting fixtures or other auxiliary equipment.

Specifications

Features of the telescopic tripod with reversible legs
Name	Parameters
Maximum height	2.22 m
Minimum height	50 cm
Leg span	66 cm to 1.02 m
Maximum load	5 Kg
Number of sections	5 pieces
Section diameter	13 mm; 16 mm; 19 mm; 22 mm; 25mm
Diameter of leg sections	16 mm; 19 mm
Mount	5/8 inch
Thread	1/4 inch
Rack weight	1.3KG
Rack folded size	49 cm
Stand material	aluminum-magnesium alloy
The cost	2790r

Manufacturers

The only manufacturer is GreenBean. Therefore, manufacturers have not yet competed for a similar model, which allows them to get a good profit from sales.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Low weight;
• Installed on any surface;
• Leg adjustment;
• Low price;
• Strong alloy.

• The shakiness of the structure.

Shock absorbers

Stronger tripod design - spring-loaded strut.

It is needed to install standard devices in photo or video studios. A shock absorber is a specially designed device that dampens vibrations. It is most often used with springs, but there is equipment with an air shock absorber. In studio racks, it protects equipment from damage that can occur if the section clamps are loosened.

Specifications

• Steel rack for 3 sections.

Height: maximum - 2.4 m; minimum - 87 cm; folded - 84 cm.

Legs: span - 77 cm; diameter 19 mm.

Tripod sections: quantity - 3 pcs; diameter in mm - 19, 22, 25; fixation type - screw clamps.

Spring shock absorber. Adapter: 5/8 inch fasteners; screw 1/4 in. Stand weight 1.6 kg.

The load on the rack must not exceed 5 kg. There is a mini ball head.

Material: sections and legs are made of steel; clamps with aluminum alloy; handles and crosspieces are made with polycarbonate.

The average cost is 1550 rubles.

• Studio rack in three sections.

Purpose - installation of studio lights.

Stand height: maximum - 1.93 m; minimum - 72 cm; folded - 74 cm. Weight of the rack 0.9 kg. Load - 3 kg.

Spring shock absorber. Stand material - aluminum.

Average price - 1700 rubles.

The stand can be used both at home and in photography studios, as well as taken to outdoor events.

• Rack for 4 sections.

Purpose - installation of studio equipment.

Stand height: maximum - 3.1 m; minimum - 85 cm. Weight of the stand is 1.35 kg. Load - 4 kg.

Spring shock absorber. Black color. Stand material - aluminum.

Average cost - 3230 rubles.

• Studio stand with black spring shock.

Parameters: maximum height - 2.6 m; minimum - 1.2 m; folded - 98 cm. Weight - 2.1 kg. Maximum load - up to 12 kg. Three steps - 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm.

There is a case for storing the structure.

Average cost - 2360 rubles.

• Air shock absorber rack.

Purpose - installation of lighting fixtures with a standard mount.

Dimensions: maximum height - 3 m; minimum - 1 m; folded - 93 cm. Weight - 1.6 kg; lifting capacity 7 kg.

The rack is made of aluminum, has three sections.

In the middle price segment, it costs 2730 rubles.

• Tripod for photography with rubber tips on the legs.

Dimensions: maximum height - 1.43 m; minimum - 36 cm; folded - 32 cm. Weight - 1.15 kg. Maximum load - up to 4 kg.

Five steps. There is a ball head, 360 degree panorama. 1/4 inch thread. Lateral tilt (in degrees): 64 and 32; frontal - 122, 90, 32.

Average cost - 9300 rubles.

There is a special storage pouch.

• Stand made of steel, tripod, used for mounting lighting and auxiliary studio equipment.

General idea: foldable structure with reinforced clamps, which is needed to increase its load capacity and stability. It is widely used for outdoor photo sessions.

The legs of the rack vary the angle of rotation, which makes it possible to place it practically against the wall

When transporting, the tripod takes up a small surface area.

Dimensions: heights - 3.25 m and 1.55 m; folded view - 1.33 m; weight - 7.27 kg. Number of sections 3 pcs .; diameter - 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm. Legs: span 84cm; diameter 25 mm; tip size 5/8 inches. The damper is a spring. Max load - 10 kg.

Manufacturers

In the market for the production of this type of rack, there is a huge struggle for leadership. Each company comes up with know-how to make their products stand out from the “gray mass”. The following companies became the leaders in the production of studio struts on shock absorbers:

• Falcon Eyes (China);
• Lumifor;
• Grifon;
• GreenBean;
• Lastolite (Italy).

New from Baby Lightweight are the Manfrotto studio stands. The series of stands combines innovative technological solutions and unique designs that make it possible to combine two tripods into one. This saves space in the studio. Due to this feature, it is also suitable for outdoor filming.

The Manfrotto series has improved user safety by introducing a new technology that includes double injection molding.This ensures a secure grip, and when unlocking the handles, thanks to the warning, the air cushion system protects the equipment from accidental falls.

Purpose - lighting fixtures, also suitable for most studio monoblocks.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Smallness;
• Acceptable cost;
• Additional stability control (shock absorber);
• Large selection of models;
• The presence of racks of a good and durable alloy;
• The rack is convenient for transportation;
• Carrying capacity of various masses.

• Difficulty of choice.

Wheeled studio stands

Standard modified rack. Thanks to the wheels, it moves easily and silently around the site. Most often it has an aluminum frame, and the wheels are made either from plastic or rubberized. There are wheel brakes and one of the legs of the rack extends to keep equipment balanced on uneven surfaces.

Specifications

• Wheel stand made of steel with 3 black sections.

Sections - silver colored anodized aluminum metal. The presence of 2 lifts. The rack can be loaded up to 2.2 kg. There is a retractable leg for stability on uneven surfaces.

Dimensions: max height - 2.72 m; min height - 1.08 m; folded view - 1.05 m; weight - 4.5 kg.

Rectangular leg section. Diameter: legs - 75 cm; columns - 35 mm, 30 mm, 25 mm.

Mount dimensions (top): socket - 17.5 mm; screws (inches): 1/4 and 3/8.

Price - 14,600 rubles.

• Stand on wheels with 4 sections.

It has a black steel base. Sections - anodized aluminum silver. The presence of 2 lifts. The stand can carry up to 12 kg and has 1 additional leg for uneven surfaces.

• Studio rack for 3 sections.

It is equipped with wheels, a retractable leg, which can be extended by 75-100 cm. The frame of the rack is anodized aluminum.

Dimensions of 3-4 sectional racks: max height - 2.96 m; min height - 1.26 m; folded view - 1.26 m; rack weight 7.5 kg; lifting capacity up to 15 kg.

The cost of the goods is 8000 rubles.

• Stainless steel stand with lifting mechanism.

It is equipped with: reinforced steel legs, central column, chrome-plated steel hoist and toothed suspension mechanism.

Section diameters: 70 mm, 60 mm, 50 mm. Leg diameter 35 mm.

Two lifters in one turn of the handle, rise to a height of 4.4 cm.

The presence of a special cable allows you to lower all 3 sections at the same time. There is 1 extendable leg.

This design is patented.

Amount - 3600 RUB

Manufacturers

There are not many firms that produce wheel stands. Let's consider only two of them.

There is a young company that made great changes in the development of not only wheels, but also the material of the rack - this is the manufacturer Manfrotto (Italy).

The Kupo company remains an old-timer in this direction. Since the technology for the production of wheel stands is the most common, the prices for them are much cheaper in comparison with other companies.

There are other manufacturers who use combined technology for the production of these products.

Output

• Easy to move around;
• Low weight;
• The presence of a brake on the wheels;
• The presence of an additional retractable leg for the stability of the rack.
• Large assortment of products;
• Rack technology is constantly being modified.

• Use only in photo or video studios;
• Small loads;
• High price.

Cranes for photo studios

A distinctive feature of studio cranes from stands is: their installation at any angle and in different directions; larger tripod span; the ability to illuminate the subject from above.

The best photo studio crane manufacturers have their own special technologies that set their products apart from others. Several categories of cranes are provided for consideration, which depend on their supplier.

Falcon Eyes Photo Studio Crane

The Chinese company has several types of cranes in its arsenal.All of them are intended for lighting fixtures in photographic studios. The maximum height limit of the cranes is 3 m. This will allow you to set the required light source at an average distance from the object of attention.

The main links of the cranes are made of high quality metal. In the event of a crane breakdown, the lighting equipment will not be damaged by falling from a height.

The crane is mobile in operation due to its dimensions and weight.

A sandbag is used as a counterweight for the crane. A sand bag is included with the equipment.

Specifications

• Crane with a spring shock absorber.

Main attributes: the height of the rack ranges from 1.12 to 3 m; rod length - from 1.25 to 2.25 m; weight with packaging - 4.5 kg; crane weight - 4 kg. Lifting capacity relative to the height of the crane - from 1.6 kg to 2.4 kg; counterweight (sand bag) - up to 5 kg.

Crane legs: span - 1.06 m; diameter - 25 mm (the diameter of the connected strut coupling is the same). Rack sections (3 pcs.) With a diameter: 30 mm, 35 mm, 40 mm. Rod connector: 1/4 ", 3/8" and 5/8 ".

The cost of the crane is 7000 rubles.

• Crane with 2 crossbar sections.

Dimensions: height 1-1.92 m; crossbar 1.25-2.3 m; counterweight - 4.5 kg; crane - 3.3 kg. Carrying capacity 1.6-1.7 kg. Rack weight with packaging - 7.8 kg. Coupling diameter 25 mm; 1/4 and 3/8 inch crossbeams coupling; scupper - 5/8 inches. Legs: diameter 22mm; span 98 cm. Sections - 30 mm and 35 mm.

Cost - 6600 rubles.

• Crane into 3 sections.

Dimensions: height - 1.12-3 m; rod length - 1.25-2.25 m; counterweight - up to 5 kg; crane 4 kg. Carrying capacity - 1.6-2.4 kg. Coupling diameter of the connected rack - 25 mm; crossbeam coupling - 1/4, 3/8, 5/8 inches. Crane legs: diameter 22 mm; span 1.06 m. Rack sections - 30 mm, 35 mm and 40 mm.

Cost - 7500 rubles.

Grifon Photo Studio Crane

The crane stand is designed for lighting fixtures. The mount is similar to a pendulum. The counterweight is the same as that of the Chinese firm - a sandbag.

A powerful crane, the parts of which are completely made of metal.

Designed for small photography studios. You can use the crane not only for a lighting solution, but also for any other photographic equipment.

The company provides a wide range of its products to suit any space.

Specifications

• Rack for 2 sections up to 3 m high. Crossbar length - up to 1.7 m. Coupling diameter: 1/4 "and 3/8". The cost of a crane is 4200 rubles.
• Crane with two sections. Dimensions: rack height - from 1.08 m to 1.86 m; crossbars - 1.21 m and 2.11 m; counterweight - up to 5 kg; crossbar weight - 1.6 kg; crane weight 7.8 kg. Rack diameters 31 and 35 inches. Coupling connection: 1/4 and 3/8 inches. The cost of goods is 6220 rubles.
• Crane for 2 sections. Height - 5 m, in the crane position - from 1.17 to 2.1 m. The length of the crossbar - from 1.17 to 3 m. Maximum load - 15 kg. Product price - 8650 rubles.
• Metal crane holder for studio lighting with a telescopic bar on wheels. Parameters: height - from 0.3 to 3.2 m; boom length - from 0.8 to 2 m; carrying capacity - up to 10 kg; crane weight - 14 kg. The presence of two sections. Often such a crane is used in portrait and subject photography. Price 17400 rubles.
• Crane on the 2nd section. Specifications: rack height from 1.08 to 1.86 m; crossbeam in length - from 1.21 to 2.11 m; crossbar weight - 6 kg; crane weight - 7.8 kg; counterweight - up to 5 kg. Stand diameter - 31 mm and 35 mm; 1/4 ”and 3/8” coupling connection. The cost is 7400 rubles.

Godox Photo Studio Crane

The Godox photo studio crane has one type of stand in its arsenal, but it is very reliable. It is designed for studios and other locations for installing lighting equipment above the object of attention.

Manufacturing material - anodized aluminum. The crane is height adjustable, folds compactly. Thanks to these features, it is easy to store and transport.

Specifications

Features of the photo studio crane
Name	Parameters
Maximum height	3.2 m
Minimum height	1.8 m
Weight	4 kg
Crossbar load	5 Kg
Boom length	2.65 m
The cost	5200 RUR

Crane for the FST photo studio

A special feature of FST products is the conversion of a standard stand into a crane. The boom of the crane is attached with a swivel clamp.

The boom bar is a telescopic structure that consists of 2 aluminum tubes extending from each other. At one end of the pipe there is a threaded plug, a hook is screwed into it, on which the load is hung.

The screw handle is made of plastic, but it is very sturdy.

Crane coupling - attachment unit. It adjusts the inclination of the crossbar. The clutch material is durable plastic. Since the crossbar is lightweight, it is convenient to take it on location.

Keep in mind that the stand is not included.

Specifications

• Inclined crane stand. Crossbar length from 0.8 m to 1.4 m. Suitable for upright with pipe diameters 19 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm and 28 mm. Carrying capacity - up to 3 kg. Cost - 1430 r.

• Combined aluminum crane stand. Parameters: boom length 2.1 m; carrying capacity - up to 5 kg; maximum height 3.9 m. Working height from 1.32 to 3 m, length of the crane from 1.1-2.1 m, number of sections - 4. It is intended for installation of a studio lighting system. The cost of goods is 4970 rubles.

GreenBean Photo Studio Crane

General idea of ​​the rack: a folding steel structure with reinforced clamps. This allows you to increase its carrying capacity. This type of crane is used on location shooting to install lighting fixtures and other studio equipment.

GreenBean does not have a large collection of crane-plan poles. But it has established its product on the market as high quality and easy to use.

Specifications

Crane characteristics
Name	Parameters
Number of sections	3 pcs
Material	steel
Boom length	1.1 m
Maximum height	1.55 m
Minimum height	3.25 m
Weight	10 Kg
Payload	up to 10 kg
Leg span	84 cm
Leg diameter	25 mm
Tip diameter	5/8 inch
Section diameter	25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm
Spring damper	there is
The cost	15 390 RUR

Output

The functionality of the racks is very diverse. Products differ according to the basic principles:

• Quality;
• Cost;
• Application;
• Manufacturer.

Falcon Eyes and Grifon are leaders in the wide range of products. Their products vary both in price and in the quality of the material used to make photo studio cranes.

The rest of the companies with a meager or single offer of their products are responsible for a specific area of ​​equipment for photography.

So, for example, GreenBean company stands out for its high carrying capacity (up to 10kg).

The FST company is famous for the unique conversion of a standard stand into a crane.

Produced by Godox - a compact stand for small photo studios and on-site filming.

It is not worth choosing cranes for the price. The products as described above have their exact purpose. Therefore, the choice should be in favor of suitable equipment for the studio.

Criterias of choice

Consideration is given to a selection of products according to the main criteria:

• Choosing a company;
• Rack price segment;
• Places of purchase of racks and cranes;
• Product characteristics.

A detailed examination of each item will answer any buyer's question.

Manufacturer's choice

Which company is better to buy stands and cranes for a photo studio? There is one universal way to decide on a supplier of equipment - renting stands and cranes for photo studios.

This is a unique opportunity to get acquainted with the entire assortment of products from different manufacturers, compose your positive and negative characteristics of the product and choose from the list a set of stands and cranes convenient for your studio.

Price segment

Budget stands and cranes are great for budding photographers. Since the model is not expensive, its quality is at the same level. This means that the design will not last long in terms of service life.

New items are always the most expensive, and, in fact, differ in quality or improvement of one particular element of the rack.

Popular models can be purchased in stores by installments or wait for a discount on the product. There is an easier way: rent a rack or crane for the studio and decide for yourself whether to buy it. It is important to take into account that the rental of such models will also differ in price.

Place for shopping racks and cranes

Where to buy stands and cranes for the studio?

Buying used goods

The most common option is to buy a used product.

• You can get any model you need;
• Low cost.

• All kinds of damage;
• Short service life.

Purchase through the online store

• Possible purchase of goods at a reduced cost;
• Huge selection;
• Home delivery.

• Damage to the goods during transportation;
• Inconsistency of goods;
• Additional shipping costs.

Purchase through the store

• Product warranty;
• Personal check of the goods;
• Possibility of return.

• High cost, especially if the popularity of models is only at the peak of activity.

Product characteristics

The rating of quality stands and cranes is described above. Making a choice from such a list is not easy. First of all, you need to decide on the room for which the rack is intended and compare the parameters of the product and the studio. Then decide on the range of shooting: studio shooting or on location. Then the focus of choice falls on the quantitative characteristics of the product. And, the main question: how much does it cost?

The buyer has already decided which stand or crane is better to buy. But, the best option is a combined product: when any rack can be turned into a crane.