Leofoto PG-1 gimbal head

Leofoto PG-1 telephoto head, precise gimbal head for heavy telephoto lenses

When long focal lengths come into play and the tripod starts to groan under the load, that’s when the Leofoto PG-1 telephoto head really comes into its own. This gimbal head is designed for photographers working with massive telephoto lenses who need smooth, controlled handling without having to wrestle with the entire setup every time. In short: the PG-1 takes a large part of the physical “pushing and shoving” off your hands and lets you focus on the subject.

The Leofoto PG-1 is a classic telephoto head with gimbal suspension. Thanks to this design, the tripod head can be moved very smoothly on both axes, making fast pans and tracking shots with long focal lengths much more relaxed. Moving subjects such as birds in flight, athletes on the field or animals on the prowl can be tracked fluidly without constantly having to fight against the weight of the lens.

Robust aluminum construction for telephoto lenses up to 800 mm f/5.6

Made of high-strength, CNC-milled aluminum, the Leofoto PG-1 weighs only about 1.0 kg while remaining remarkably torsion-resistant. With a maximum load capacity of up to 25 kg, it is designed for large telephoto lenses up to 800 mm f/5.6 and keeps them safely balanced. This is not just a theoretical figure, but clearly noticeable in everyday use: even heavy DSLR or mirrorless camera systems with massive telephoto lenses are carried stably.

With its compact dimensions of around 20.0 cm width, 24.5 cm height and 7.6 cm depth, the PG-1 can be easily stored in a camera backpack or in the supplied padded carrying bag. The base with a diameter of about 6.0 cm ensures a stable contact surface on the tripod without being unnecessarily bulky.

Arca-style compatible, flexible quick-release clamp for 38 mm dovetail

The quick-release clamp of the Leofoto PG-1 uses a precise screw clamp and accepts 38 mm dovetail profiles. It is Arca-style compatible and thus designed for common standards, giving you a great deal of flexibility in everyday use. According to the manufacturer, the following dovetail profiles are supported, among others: Flexshooter 38 mm dovetail, Arca-style compatible (according to the manufacturer) 38 mm dovetail, Really Right Stuff dovetail, Wimberley dovetail, Pro Media Gear dovetail and Kirk dovetail.

This means you can usually continue to use existing quick-release plates, lens feet or L-brackets with ARCA profile directly, without having to change the entire system. For comfortable use, a quick-release plate that is as long as possible or a replacement lens foot with dovetail profile is recommended so that the lens-camera setup can be balanced exactly at its center of gravity. This reduces the load on the bearings and makes operation even smoother.

Since the PG-1 is ARCA compatible, it is worth taking a look at additional accessories around this system that can be seamlessly integrated: ARCA compatible components.

Ideal for the following applications, from sports photography to panoramas

The Leofoto PG-1 telephoto head is designed for a wide range of photographic disciplines where precise, fluid handling of heavy equipment is crucial. It really plays to its strengths in telephoto work, where long focal lengths must be guided steadily and every small vibration becomes visible. In sports photography, reportage photography and hide-based photography, the gimbal design also helps to track subjects cleanly without having to hold the camera constantly.

The PG-1 is also interesting for panoramic photography, especially when working with telephoto lenses and when you want to create clean, overlapping image sequences. In architectural photography, the precise, repeatable panning range can help build series of shots with consistent angles. The telephoto head is suitable for both classic DSLR systems and modern mirrorless cameras, as long as the lens combination remains within the load capacity.

Finely tuned operation with ball-bearing axes

Both axes of the Leofoto PG-1 are fitted with ball bearings, which ensures a very even, smooth movement. This smoothness is particularly noticeable during slow pans or when you want to keep the subject precisely in the frame. The large, grippy locking knobs can be operated securely even with gloves or cold fingers, which is a real advantage in winter or during night shoots.

The side clamp is height-adjustable so that you can optimally balance the lens-camera setup. Depending on the center of gravity of the combination, the position can be adjusted so that the setup virtually stays in the chosen position by itself. This not only relieves your hands, but also protects the equipment, as no unnecessary forces act on the bearings.

Precise alignment with bubble level and laser-engraved scales

For precise alignment of the tripod head, a single bubble level is integrated, allowing you to quickly level the PG-1. In addition, three laser-engraved scales are provided, enabling reproducible settings of the pan and tilt angles. This is particularly helpful if you use recurring setups or want to document specific angle combinations.

The torsion-resistant construction ensures that once-set positions do not shift unintentionally. This keeps the alignment stable even during long exposures or series of shots, which is becoming increasingly important with telephoto focal lengths and high-resolution sensors.

Compatible with tripods with 3/8" UNC threaded mount

The Leofoto PG-1 has a 3/8" UNC internal thread at the base and is therefore suitable for most common photo tripods that have a 3/8" UNC threaded mount. The base with a diameter of about 6.0 cm provides a solid contact surface so that the head sits securely even on more robust tripod shoulders. In combination with a stable tripod, this creates a very durable system for demanding telephoto and panorama applications.

Mounting the lens and balancing

To mount the lens correctly and balance it at its center of gravity, a sufficiently long quick-release plate or a suitable replacement lens foot with 38 mm dovetail profile is required. This allows the camera-lens combination to be shifted so that the center of gravity lies exactly above the pivot point of the gimbal head. Once this is set up correctly, the system can be moved almost effortlessly and still remains in the desired position.

For various lens manufacturers, suitable plates and replacement feet with Arca-style compatible profile are available, which can be securely fixed with the PG-1’s screw clamp. This allows you to optimally adapt your telephoto lenses to the Leofoto PG-1 and fully exploit the load capacity and stability of the system.

Included padded carrying bag for safe transport

The scope of delivery of the Leofoto PG-1 includes a padded carrying bag in which the gimbal head can be safely stored and transported. This bag protects the head from impacts and scratches and makes it easier to transport in the car, in a backpack or in the studio. Especially if you work on location frequently, a suitable transport solution is practical for keeping your equipment organized and ready for use.

Areas of use from telephoto to architectural photography

The Leofoto PG-1 telephoto head is primarily designed for telephoto and sports photography, where fast movements and long focal lengths come together. In hide-based photography, for example in wildlife photography from blinds or fixed positions, the gimbal design ensures relaxed, controlled handling of heavy telephoto lenses without you having to carry the full weight all the time.

In reportage and architectural photography, the PG-1 can also be used effectively when precise pans and repeatable settings are required. With a stable DSLR or mirrorless camera and a suitable telephoto or zoom lens, you can build a very versatile setup that is suitable for both dynamic scenes and static subjects.