Introduction
The Vanguard VEO3GO265HCB is a compact carbon fiber travel tripod designed for photographers requiring portability and versatility. This tripod features a ball head, monopod conversion option, smartphone holder, and Bluetooth remote. It is engineered to support camera capacities up to 22 pounds while maintaining a lightweight and compact form factor.
This manual provides instructions for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your VEO3GO265HCB tripod to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your package:
- Vanguard VEO3GO265HCB Tripod with Ball Head
- Smart Phone Holder
- Bluetooth Remote
- Spiked Feet (alternative to pre-installed rubber feet)
- Tripod Bag
Product Features
- Compact and Lightweight Design: Folds to 16.1 inches and weighs 3.1 pounds for easy transport.
- Extended Height: Reaches up to 65.5 inches for various shooting perspectives.
- High Load Capacity: Supports equipment up to 22 pounds.
- Monopod Conversion: One leg detaches to form a monopod extending to 66.9 inches.
- Arca Swiss Compatible Ball Head (BH-102): Features an independent pan-lock for precise adjustments and panoramic shots.
- Low Angle/Macro Capability: Reversible center column or use of the included Low Angle Adapter.
- Adjustable Leg Angles: Three easy-set leg angles (21°, 50°, and 80°) for stability on uneven terrain.
- Rapid Set Twist Locks: Quick deployment and easy cleaning.
- Interchangeable Feet: Includes both rubber and spiked feet for different surfaces.
- Stability Hook: Retractable hook for adding weight to enhance stability in windy conditions.
- Smartphone Integration: Includes a smartphone connector (up to 3.4 inches wide) and a Bluetooth remote shutter trigger.
Setup
1. Unfolding the Tripod
- Release the leg locks on each leg.
- Extend the legs fully.
- Adjust the leg angles as needed (see 'Adjusting Leg Angles').
- Secure the leg locks firmly.
2. Adjusting Leg Angles
Each leg features a mechanism to set one of three angles: 21°, 50°, or 80°. Press the angle lock release and position the leg to the desired angle until it clicks into place.
3. Extending/Retracting Legs
To extend a leg section, twist the rapid set twist lock counter-clockwise to loosen, pull the leg section out to the desired length, and twist clockwise to secure. Repeat for all sections.
4. Mounting a Camera
The BH-102 ball head uses an Arca Swiss compatible quick release plate (QS-60 V2 included). Attach the quick release plate to your camera's tripod socket. Then, slide the plate into the ball head clamp and tighten the locking knob securely.
Image: The Vanguard VEO3GO265HCB tripod fully extended with the ball head and a camera mounted, showcasing its standard configuration.
Operating Instructions
1. Using the Ball Head
- Main Locking Knob: Loosen to adjust the camera's angle and position. Tighten to secure.
- Pan-Lock Knob: Loosen to rotate the camera horizontally for panoramic shots. Tighten to lock the panning movement.
2. Converting to Monopod
One of the tripod legs can be detached and combined with the center column to form a monopod.
- Unscrew the designated leg (usually marked) from the tripod chassis.
- Unscrew the center column from the tripod chassis.
- Screw the detached leg onto the bottom of the center column.
- Attach the ball head to the top of the newly formed monopod.
Image: The Vanguard VEO3GO265HCB configured as a monopod, showing the extended leg and center column assembly.
3. Low Angle and Macro Photography
For low-angle or macro shots, you can either reverse the center column or use the included Low Angle Adapter.
- Reversing the Center Column: Remove the center column, flip it upside down, and reinsert it into the tripod chassis. This allows the camera to be positioned between the legs, closer to the ground.
- Using the Low Angle Adapter: Remove the ball head and center column. Attach the Low Angle Adapter directly to the tripod chassis, then mount the ball head onto the adapter.
Image: The Vanguard VEO3GO265HCB tripod configured for low-angle photography, with the center column inverted and a camera mounted close to the ground.
4. Using the Smartphone Holder and Bluetooth Remote
The included smartphone holder can accommodate devices up to 3.4 inches wide. Attach it to the ball head's quick release plate. The Bluetooth remote allows for remote shutter activation.
- Smartphone Holder: Expand the holder and securely place your smartphone. Mount the holder onto the ball head.
- Bluetooth Remote Pairing: Turn on the remote. On your smartphone, go to Bluetooth settings and pair with the remote (usually named 'Vanguard Remote' or similar).
- Operation: Once paired, open your camera app. Press the appropriate button on the remote (iOS or Android) to trigger the shutter.
Image: The Bluetooth remote control and smartphone holder accessories included with the Vanguard VEO3GO265HCB tripod.
Image: The Vanguard VEO3GO265HCB monopod configuration with a smartphone mounted in the holder, demonstrating its use as a selfie stick.
5. Enhancing Stability
In windy conditions or when using heavy equipment, utilize the retractable hook located at the base of the center column. Hang a camera bag or other weight from this hook to increase the tripod's stability.
6. Changing Feet
The tripod comes with pre-installed rubber feet and includes spiked feet for use on soft ground or ice. To change, simply unscrew the current feet and screw on the desired alternative.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe down the carbon fiber legs and metal components with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Leg Locks: The rapid set twist leg locks are designed for easy dismantling, cleaning, and reassembly. Periodically clean them to prevent grit buildup, especially after use in sandy or muddy environments.
- Storage: Store the tripod in its bag in a dry, cool place when not in use.
Troubleshooting
- Tripod Instability: Ensure all leg locks are fully tightened. Verify leg angles are securely set. Use the retractable hook to add weight if necessary.
- Leg Sections Not Extending/Retracting Smoothly: Clean the twist locks and leg sections to remove any dirt or debris. Ensure they are not overtightened or too loose.
- Ball Head Movement Issues: Check that the main locking knob and pan-lock knob are properly loosened for movement and tightened for securing.
- Bluetooth Remote Not Connecting: Ensure the remote is charged (if applicable) and turned on. Check your smartphone's Bluetooth settings to ensure it's discoverable and paired correctly. Try unpairing and re-pairing if issues persist.
Specifications
| Model Name | VEO3GO265HCB |
| Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Maximum Height | 65.5 Inches (166.4 cm) |
| Folded Length | 16.1 Inches (40.9 cm) |
| Monopod Maximum Height | 66.9 Inches (170 cm) |
| Item Weight | 3.1 Pounds (1.4 kg) |
| Weight Limit | 22 Pounds (10 kg) |
| Tripod Head Type | Ball Head (BH-102) |
| Leg Sections | 5 |
| Leg Angles | 21°, 50°, 80° |
| Smartphone Holder Width | Up to 3.4 Inches (8.6 cm) |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Vanguard website or contact Vanguard customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
For additional resources and product registration, visit: www.vanguardworld.com
