Manfrotto Nanopole Stand - MS0490A

If you are looking for a lightweight, compact and portable light stand for studio or location shoots using a speed light  this is your answer. The Nanopole is a lightweight and compact stand for flash heads and and modifiers weighing under 3.5 pounds  It will extend to 6' and has with a removable riser section that can be used as a boom-arm for hand held or clamped positioning. The stand  has reverse folding legs allowing it to fold down 19.3" for packing.The Nanopole possesses a couple of features which make it stand out from many other light stands. It has a convenient hook to secure sandbags for additional stability. One leg is extendable to permit leveling on uneven surfaces.  Note however, it will not level on stairs. The riser is easily detached from the legs by a simple push on a release button on the bottom of the pole.The Nanopole is ideally suited for indoor and outdoor photography and has some visual appeal too.  The red anodized accents and logo give this stand a bit of pizzaz.  The Nanopole sells for under $80.

Manfrotto Snap Tilthead with Shoe Mount - MLH1HS

The Snap Tilthead with Shoe Mount from Manfrotto is new and unique yet very handy way to mount your flash off-camera.  You can use the flash with an umbrella or a small softbox.Unlike most swivel adaptors the Tilthead does not have any large extended levers and locking handles and is easy to pack and store. The Tilted fits all nightstands with 5/8” stud and has a unique spring loaded locking lever. The Tilthead has an auto-locking knob for angle selection with a built in spring loaded counterbalance mechanism.  This prevents the the flash from tipping into the stand. The shoe mount loosens and tightens via collar that requires a single twist. The Tilthead will accept all standard hot shoe flash heads.The Tilted sells for under $40.The two devices together make an excellent portable solution.