Anyone have suggestions for a tripod for top down shots?

[PedroYoung]

I've been trying to shoot with an Avast porthole, but my tripod (inexpensive amazon model) just doesn't get high enough above the rim of the tank to get a stable shot. I end up leaning to tripod on 2 legs against the rim of the tank (75G on stand), but it's far from ideal.

 

[Cherub]

I have a pretty tall tripod and still can't get it over my aquarium for top down shots. Now that's why I have a frag tank

 

[BigJim]

I don't use a tripod and get pretty good macro shots. Here are my typical settings you can use as a starting point. Your camera and lighting will likely cause you to tweak them.

f stop - 9
ISO - 400 - 800 depending on the shot
shutter speed - 1/500 - 1/640

 

[kinetic]

You'll need a different kind of rig. You can look up tall light stands with boom arms. Just connected a tripod mount to them and you'll have a rock solid base. The light stand needs to be pretty strong, otherwise supplement with sand bags.