Award for Manfrotto tripod head

Manfrotto’s “500” video tripod head (model number MVH500AH) has been awarded “European Photo-Video Accessory 2013-2014” at the European Imaging and Sound Association Awards in the Video category. It’s the second award this year for the product; it also took Videomaker’s “Best Support of NAB” in Las Vegas.

The manufacturer describes the 500 as “a lightweight and compact tripod head with a wide sliding plate”. Costing around £130 GBP, it’s suitable for DSLRs and video cameras, and fits onto standard photo tripods hence it being pitched as an upgrade for stills shooters who want to get into video work.

The head has fluid cartridges on both the pan and tilt axes to ensure smooth motion. Unusually, the 500 has a fixed counterbalance (of around 5 lbs) instead of it being adjustable – this could be annoying for some uses.

It’s claimed the head is perfectly stable when loaded up to 11 lbs. A 3/8” connector is included to enable an external monitor or other accessory equipment to be fitted.

For more information, visit www.manfrotto.co.uk