Leofoto LM-324CL Tripod Review: Tall and Tough
Review by James W Fortune
Disclosure: I received this tripod in exchange for an honest review. I’m not a seller, and I won’t be telling you that this is the tripod you should buy. Instead, I’ll walk through its features, explain what I like (and don’t), and how it’s performed in real-world use.
The Leofoto LM-324CL is a tall, modular carbon fibre tripod that competes in the premium space without the typical premium price. With high-end materials, smart design, a broad accessory ecosystem, and thoughtful details, it’s delivered strong performance for my landscape, studio, and hybrid photo/video work. This review reflects my experience after extended field testing.
Technical Specifications
• Material: 10-layer Toray carbon fibre
• Max Height: 2020 mm / 79.5 in
• Min Height: 103 mm / 4.1 in
• Folded Length: 678 mm / 26.7 in
• Weight: 1.82 kg / 4.01 lbs
• Max Load Capacity: 25 kg / 55 lbs
• Leg Sections: 4 (Ø 32/28/25/22 mm)
• Platform Diameter: 75 mm
• Mounting Screw: 3/8"
• Accessory Ports: 1 × 3/8" on platform
• Included: Half ball adapter, spikes, carry bag, hex keys, multi-tool
• Warranty: 10 years (region dependent)
Background / Why This Tripod?
As a photographer and videographer with 20+ years of experience—and having relied on a similar modular tripod since 2018—I was particularly interested in testing the LM-324CL. My work in interior and architectural photography showed me the unique value of extra-tall tripods. That insight, along with the promise of lighter weight and high modularity, made this model appealing.
First Impressions
Out of the box, the LM-324CL stands out for its minimalist design and professional fit and finish. The included accessories (half-ball adapter, spikes, bag, etc.) feel purposeful and well made, not like afterthoughts.
It strikes an unusual balance: it’s tall, modular, and strong—but also lightweight and relatively compact for its height. The folded length is shorter than some competitors with comparable maximum extension. Despite its size, it feels nimble and well balanced in hand.
Why Go Modular and Extra Tall?
Modular tripods have gone mainstream, largely due to the convenience of half-ball adapters for quick leveling. Their cinema-inspired platform design delivers strong load capacity and stability—at the cost of a bit more weight.
Extra-tall tripods remain niche, mainly due to bulk and handling complexity. But for me, the creative and practical upsides are undeniable.
New Compositional Possibilities
Shooting from higher vantage points opens up new perspectives—especially useful in interiors or architectural work. Top-down compositions, centralised framing, and control over vertical lines all become much easier at height.
Positioning in Tough Terrain
The added reach also lets you set up on sloped ground or across ditches, keeping yourself and your gear safe while maintaining a usable camera angle.
Design and Build Quality
The LM-324CL uses 10-layer Toray carbon fibre, known for high strength-to-weight ratios, though Leofoto doesn’t specify the modulus. From real-world use, the legs feel rigid, stable, and effective at dampening vibration.
The platform is cleanly machined, with material-saving cutouts that reduce weight without sacrificing rigidity. Silver hardware accents offer a premium look without being flashy.
Highlights
• Leg locks: Excellent grip, even with gloves, and smooth, confident engagement.
• Leg hinges: Slightly looser than I’d like out of the box, but easily adjusted—and they’ve held up well after over 100 uses.
• Shims: The snug-fitting, one-piece internal shims do a fantastic job minimizing twist and maximizing alignment—something even premium tripods sometimes miss.
In-Field Performance
Over two months, I’ve used the tripod in varied environments: portraiture, product photography, landscapes, and some hybrid video work. With no centre column and four-section legs, it offers a huge working height range—from 10.3 cm to 202 cm.
As expected for modular designs, changing height takes more time versus centre-column models. But the payoff is better stability, particularly with long lenses or in windy conditions.
The SureLock mechanism on the platform is effective and intuitive, and the bubble level is prominently placed and catches light well, aiding visibility. A 3/8" port adds mounting flexibility for accessories.
Load Capacity and Stability: A Practical Note
Leofoto claims a 25 kg load capacity—but like all tripods, this rating assumes a vertical, centred load. Off-axis mounting creates torque, which can reduce usable capacity dramatically. For example:
• 8 kg camera at 15 cm offset:
Generates ~11.77 Nm of torque
(F = m * g = 78.48 N; τ = r * F)
Even a strong tripod head may slip under such torque. Realistically, treat that 25 kg figure as ~12.5 kg usable in demanding conditions.
That said, I’ve shot 2-minute exposures at 70mm on an open hill (gusts up to 24 mph) using a Nikon Z9 with filters, and the LM-324CL held up beautifully. Stability was excellent—even compared to heavier tripods I’ve used.
Seaside Use & Corrosion
I've taken the tripod into saltwater a few times with no issues yet, but long-term durability in marine environments will only show over time. As always, disassemble, rinse, dry, and re-lube after ocean use to avoid corrosion.
Included Accessories
Leofoto includes a half-ball adapter, rubber feet, stainless spikes, and a generously padded bag—all genuinely useful and well made. Many brands charge extra for these. The carry bag is particularly good: roomy enough to accommodate the tripod with a head attached, even a video head.
Criticisms
• Platform Lock Lever: Protrudes and spins freely—secure, but prone to snagging in transport. A minor annoyance, but noticeable.
• Leg Angle Latches: Positive action, but the grip area is a bit thin—less glove-friendly than ideal.
• Allen Key Hinge Bolts: May wear over time or strip with poor tools. A Torx head would offer better longevity and precision.
Value
Without naming prices, I’ve spent £1000+ on high-end tripods before—and the LM-324CL easily competes in terms of quality and functionality. The included accessories add meaningful value, and I’d gladly pay retail if I needed to replace my main tripod.
Final Thoughts
The Leofoto LM-324CL has exceeded my expectations. It’s tall, stable, and thoughtfully engineered, with strong real-world performance across genres. For anyone who needs height, load capacity, and modularity without hauling excessive weight, it’s a standout option.
It’s a tripod I trust in the field—one that lets me focus on the shot, not the gear.