If you use the code PAUL20 you will receive a 20% discount valid to 31 December 2025

KentFaith K&F Concept SA255C1 Tripod Review: Lightweight, Affordable, and Perfect for Travel Photography

The KentFaith K&F Concept SA255C1 Carbon Fibre Tripod is a lightweight, compact, and affordable option for travel photographers. Weighing just 1.325 kg, it extends from 42 cm to 1.7 m, supports up to 10 kg, and offers versatile features like a removable centre column for low-angle shots and conversion to a monopod. Its carbon fibre build and anodized details provide a premium look and solid stability. Pros include its portability, build quality, and versatility, while minor cons are the twist locks and thinner legs at full extension. Overall, it’s a great value tripod,

When it comes to travel photography, having a reliable, lightweight, and compact tripod can make all the difference. In this review, I’ll delve into the features, performance, and overall value of the Kentfaith SA255 C1 Carbon Fibre Tripod. I recently got my hands on this tripod, and after testing it extensively in various outdoor conditions, I’m excited to share my experience with you.

Unboxing: What’s Inside?

The Kentfaith SA255C1 comes well-packaged, ensuring that every component is securely protected. The first thing you notice when opening the box is a sturdy nylon tripod case, complete with a convenient shoulder strap. This carrying case is a great addition, especially for photographers who are constantly on the move.

Inside the case, you’ll find an instruction leaflet and a hex key for making any necessary adjustments. The tripod itself, along with its ball head, is wrapped in protective polythene, which keeps it safe from scratches during transit. Finally, there’s a “magic plate” included, snug in its wrapper, but more on that later. Overall, the unboxing experience is straightforward and efficient, providing all the essentials for a quick setup.

First Impressions

Upon first glance, the Kentfaith SA255 C1 tripod impresses with its sleek and compact design. The carbon fibre construction makes it feel incredibly light yet sturdy, weighing in at just 1.325 kg. The orange anodized accents give it a modern and professional look that stands out from other tripods in this price range. Folded, the tripod measures 420 mm, making it a perfect fit for travel bags or backpacks. Priced at around £150 on Amazon, this tripod is already a bargain, but you can get it for even less on the Kentfaith website, especially with the exclusive code “PAUL20,” which gives an additional 20% off until 2025.

Build Quality and Design

The Kentfaith SA255C1 tripod is made from carbon fibre, a material known for its strength-to-weight ratio, making it both durable and easy to carry. The build quality feels solid, with no loose parts or wobbling. The ball head, which can support up to 10 kg of weight, is robust and allows for smooth and secure adjustments. This makes it suitable for various camera setups, from lightweight mirrorless cameras to heavier DSLRs with long telephoto lenses.

The four-leg locks have a grippy finish, which makes adjusting the height of the tripod a breeze. The tripod extends from a compact 42 cm to a maximum height of 1.7 meters, providing ample flexibility for different shooting angles. Even at its maximum extension, the tripod feels stable and secure.

Field Test: Andrews Wood Nature Reserve

To truly test the capabilities of the Kentfaith SA255 C1, I decided to take it to one of my favourite spots, the Andrews Wood Nature Reserve, a location known for its lush, dense woodland. The tripod’s compact and lightweight nature made it easy to strap to my camera bag, though the straps on my bag were a bit fiddly. However, this minor inconvenience was more about the bag than the tripod itself.

Once at my desired location, adjusting the tripod’s height was straightforward, thanks to the user-friendly leg locks. The tripod extended easily to accommodate different shooting angles. At 1.73 meters tall, I found the tripod’s maximum height more than adequate, even though the uneven ground sometimes made it appear taller in my video review. The tripod’s finish and anodized details give it a premium look that belies its affordable price.

Performance in the Field

The SA255 C1 tripod performed admirably during my field test. The ball head’s design supports smooth panning, which is essential for capturing video or panoramic shots. It locks securely in place, ensuring stability even when supporting heavier camera setups. I took a few photos, including a time-lapse using the Nikon Z3, and the tripod remained stable throughout, even in windy conditions.

One standout feature of this tripod is its ability to adjust to very low angles. By unscrewing a nut at the end of the centre column, the tripod can be lowered significantly, which is perfect for capturing low-angle shots. This feature is a game-changer for photographers like me who often get their clothes dirty trying to get that perfect low-angle shot. With the SA255 C1, I could easily take a low-down photo of an old abandoned farmstead without much hassle.

Versatility and Unique Features

The Kentfaith SA255 C1 tripod offers several unique features that set it apart from other tripods in its class. For instance, the centre column can be removed and swapped around to allow the ball head to get even closer to the ground. This flexibility is particularly useful for macro photography or situations where a low perspective is needed.

Additionally, the tripod’s centre column can be detached and used as a monopod or even a walking stick, which adds another layer of versatility. This feature came in handy for me while traversing uneven terrain. The rubber feet are also removable, revealing threaded holes for spikes, which can be attached for added stability on rocky or slippery surfaces.

The Magic Plate: A Handy Accessory

One accessory I haven’t talked about much is the magic plate. This clever little addition allows you to mount your camera or even a mobile phone to the tripod effortlessly. It also features a built-in cold shoe, which is perfect for adding accessories like a microphone or a small LED light. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the magic plate with me during my field test, but it is a practical accessory for photographers and videographers alike.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Lightweight and Compact: At just 1.325 kg and 42 cm when folded, this tripod is ideal for travel.
2. High Build Quality: The carbon fibre construction and anodized accents give it a premium feel.
3. Versatile: This can be converted into a monopod or used for low-angle shots.
4. Affordable: Competitive pricing, with discounts available through the Kentfaith website.
5. Strong and Stable: Supports up to 10 kg, suitable for various camera setups.

Cons:

1. Twist Locks Instead of Lever Locks: While twist locks are easy to use, some may prefer the quicker operation of lever locks.
2. Thinner Legs at Maximum Extension: At its full height of 1.7 meters, the smallest leg sections can feel a bit thin, though stability is still adequate.

Conclusion

Overall, I was thoroughly impressed with the Kent Faith SA255 C1 Carbon Fiber Tripod. Its lightweight design, high build quality, and versatility make it an excellent choice for travel photographers or anyone looking for a reliable tripod on a budget. The few minor cons I mentioned do not detract significantly from the overall functionality and value of this tripod.

If you’re in the market for a new travel tripod, the Kent Faith SA255 C1 is certainly worth considering. With its affordable price point, robust features, and added versatility, it has quickly become a favourite in my photography kit. Don’t forget to use the exclusive code “ALL20” on the Kent Faith website to save an additional 20% off your purchase.

Final Thoughts and a Surprise Astro Shot

Shortly after recording my field test, I unexpectedly had an opportunity to test the tripod for astrophotography. Woken up by my dog in the middle of the night, I stepped outside and saw a rare clear sky, perfect for capturing the galactic core. I quickly set up my Nikon Z6 on the Kent Faith tripod and managed to take my first Astro shot. While the result wasn’t brilliant, it was a fun experience highlighting the tripod’s versatility and stability in low-light conditions.

This is my first real attempt at Astrophotography, this is a 15-second exposure and a bit of a rush job. The SA255C1 did a sterling job with stability. I have since watched loads of YouTube videos on processing and camera settings.