This thing is awesome--everything as it was described. Sturdy, and well-built--but I especially like the swivel head (like on my Gorilla Pod SLR); this allows you to get those odd angles. It even has a built-in balance. Adjusting the height is dead-simple--just loosen the center "nut," and manually pull. With my last tripod, you had to crank a handle. It's so lightweight and compact. At the same time, it doesn't draw attention to itself. I have it standing next to my TV stand now, and I only notice it if I make a conscious effort to search for it. My last tripod was conspicuous--likely because the legs were wider. I was weighing whether to buy another lens. Reason, however, suggested a better buy would be to get a sturdier, more useful tripod. I'm so glad I did--because my other one is literally on it's-wait for it-last legs. The head is not very sturdy, and I don't trust it with my Canon T4i--let alone with a 70-300 zoom or the telescope I sometimes use.I've only used it on one quick outing to go outside and shoot my car (just polished the wheels.) A lil' Photoshop at play. I look forward to using my camera a *LOT* more now. The "mojo's"...back! :)