Cullmann's Universal XXL 3150 Tripod & Magnesit 40200 Ball Head
The durable Universal XXL 3150 tripod was designed to provide extra height. It easily extends to 7 ft; adjustments can be made by simply sliding the column up or down. The self-clamping screw eliminates the danger of sudden drops. The MSRP is $189.

The Magnesit 40200 ball head is made from anodized aluminum and offers a load capacity of up to 66 lbs with a torque of up to 35nm. The unit's resistance can be precisely adjusted with the friction screw to safely accommodate the weight of an SLR, D-SLR, or camcorder. It features rubber-coated adjusting knobs, a panorama lock with a 360° scale, 90° tilting, and an adjustable quick-release system with safety lock and two built-in spirit levels. The MSRP is $299. Contact: R.T.S. Inc., 40-11 Burt Dr., Deer Park, NY 11729; (631) 242-6801; www.rtsphoto.com.

Sigma's 50mm F/1.4 EX DG HSM Lens
Sigma's new 50mm lens offers a maximum aperture of f/1.4 and features a molded glass aspherical lens with multilayered coating to reduce flare and ghosting. The Hyper Sonic Motor provides silent, high-speed autofocusing. Contact: Sigma Corporation of America, 15 Fleetwood Ct., Ronkonkoma, NY 11779; (800) 896-6858; www.sigma-photo.com.

The Mobile Photo StudioCruzer 1510
This case was designed with the traveling photographer in mind. Weighing 15 lbs, the Photo StudioCruzer 1510 is a tough, waterproof, durable airline carryon case that features a modular interior and a lid compartment that accommodates a 15" laptop computer. It also offers a 17" retractable extension handle, side and front handles, and metal reinforced padlock protectors. Contact: CaseCruzer (Pelican Products, Inc.), 4665 State St., Montclair, CA 91763; (800) 882-4730; www.casesbypelican.com.

Manfrotto's CX Tripods
The new CX models of carbon-fiber tripods feature redesigned ergonomic locking levers, new leg angle selectors, as well as magnesium and aluminum castings. The CX PRO models offer the Q90° Quick Center Column System, which allows the center column to be easily rotated into a horizontal position without removing the head or disassembling the column itself. Contact: Bogen Imaging, Inc., 565 E. Crescent Ave., Ramsey, NJ 07446; (201) 818-9500; www.bogenimaging.us.