We purchased the Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB Tripod so that our expert reviewer could thoroughly test and review it. Read on for our full product review.

The Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB is an excellent full-size tripod for the studio photographer. With an ultra-sturdy construction, plenty of angle options, and some subtle components that make it easy to set up and take down, this tripod fits perfectly into a studio setup. We wouldn't put this in the travel-friendly category, as it won't easily fit into a travel bag, but the sturdiness of the construction, large, easy-to-use components, and high weight capacity make it a great head tripod for video or photo shoots.

The entire Vanguard tripod line shares the same general look and feel: a predominantly black construction with sleek metallic silver accents and some bright orange accents on the secondary switches. The 263AB looks and feels every bit as professional as you would expect a Vanguard tripod to look like.

Each of the main legs is 22 inches long when folded, and about 0.5 inches thick at their widest. The center pole has a hexagonal design, which nicely differentiates it from the curved main legs. The aluminum has a full matte black, brushed aluminum finish, which looks really sleek. Overall, the design of this tripod fits everything a modern photographer would be looking for, even if the orange accents give it a slightly sportier feel.