Originally posted by Bonobo and therein lies the rub. i don't publish, but i want to take pictures as if i did, or at least strive to that level. if i don't keep...."other people" happy, though, i don't get to take as many pictures. or i pay for it in... other ways, which on a honeymoon is unacceptable.
We're definitely going diving/snorkeling. won't be taking the camera for that adventure though
now i'm considering saving up a little longer for the
vanguard alta 225ct from @RKKS08 's helpful link. it fits all my criteria but price.
but then i run into the problem of having two decent tripods, when i'm only ever going to use one at a time.
why is this not simple?
Its no rub really...you are going on a honeymoon and what a place to be going for such a special occasion and it just so happens that you will be taking some excellent gear for any photo opportunities that arise and of course with a location such as Belize they will. Also how great that your better half enjoys these kinds of things as do you so yeah... you better keep her happy
From my own experience my wife fully supports my hobby even though I tend to get a little crazy about it at times, but she always knows that she is more important so she's cool with it.
In 2009 when I went with my wife back to her country of Vietnam for 3 weeks I experienced some fantastic things there but to my surprise (I did not know this at the time) Vietnam has coral reefs as well...some rather beautiful ones and there has been a recent push within the last 5 years or so for conservation of many of the country's natural wonders. So the impromptu snorkeling adventure was one of the highlights of our trip and I highly recommend coraling to anyone who has the opportunity to do so.
As far as the Alta+225ct that is a great choice...probably what I would have chosen if I didn't get such a sweet deal on the Alta+255ct / acratech ultimate combo I got on PF market place. This series is well made...and though I can't say about the +225, I find the +255 to be very stable for its size (though it is .76lbs heavier) and very transportable. Seeing as how the +225 is much smaller than your current set up...if you get out enough there should be plenty of opportunities to hike around or travel with the smaller one
Regardless in the end you will make the right choice for your needs.