A strong reliable tripod is one of the most essential tools a filmmaker can acquire, and well worth the investment. It took me a few years to upgrade from my crappy Manfrotto 190xb to something beefier, but when I did I thought, "Why didn't I do this years ago?" Working with larger aluminum tripod has its advantages, but there's something I miss about the ease and portability of the smaller units. If only we have could have both — that's the appeal of the International.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/461078637/the-international-a-travel-tripod-for-filmmakers


Key Features

  • Weighs 4lbs, supports 55lbs
  • Compacts down to 20" (meets carry on requirements for most airlines)
  • Hi-hat mode as low as 2.5" / as high as 5.5'
  • 75mm Bowl
  • Early Backers get it for $729

The International tripod from Nice Industries collapses down to 20

The International 4lb tripod from Nice Industries Supports RED Camera

When it's all said and done, I really want these legs. Their system looks like a no brainer for shooters who operate with small crews (or one man bands) for its weight and collapsable features. The only thing I'm skeptical about is their fluid head which only supports 11lbs, meaning heavily accessorized kits will have to be stripped down. Their quick release system is mostly ideal for those using their Aviator jib or other products. Most of us (hopefully) already have a 75mm bowl head that we can use with the legs instead (the Benro S8 is a solid budget choice). They are currently selling out of the Early Backers option on their Kickstarter, so get there while you still can.

Source: International - Travel the world with your tripod!