camera tripods

If you mean the attachment as in the shoe that slots in to the head of the tripod, then no, they do differ.

But the shoe attaches to the camera with a bolt. That bolt is pretty universal. I think there are two sizes of bolt, but the larger is by far the most common.

I'm sure that tripod will fit your dads camera. Looks pretty good to.

The higher end Jessops one were basically rebadged Giottos ones, if I remember correctly.
Or Giottos IS jessops. something like that.

Don't know anything about that Hama tripod, but it is a respected name. Their filters are very highly regarded.

99.9999999999999999999999999999999999999993% of cameras have the same tripod thread.
It is exceedingly rare that you will find anything different.

the only time you will find the smaller tripod mounting screw is one some telephoto lenses and laser range finders etc, Cameras all use a UNC 1/4"-20 blot and its become the industry atandard so you shouldnt have a problem.

When it comes to tripods, think carefully about what he will use it for, there is no point spending big cash on a tripod thats for pro's doing portraits etc. The lighter the better as you dad is more likely to take it with him everywhere.

I use one of these
Manfrotto Modo 785b - expensive but i was given it for a present, but a similar one of the same quality is this one

Velbon CX

the velbon stuff is well made and will last a while

also have you thought about getting him a gorilla pod? my sister has been working as a pro for about 20 years and she now swears by it as it is small and good for a lot of things. there are two for DSLRs

focus a bit of a bling purchase
focus good to sling in your bag and go anywhere!

Hope this helps

I got one of those Josh!

With tripods you generally get what you pay for. Cheap ones are seldom up to the job.

Re brands, Gitzo are probably the best money can buy.
If they are beyond budget, check out Fiesol - a Korean product which is 90% of a Gitzo at half the price. (I bought a carbon one a few years ago and have been very happy with it for medium weight camera & lens. It travels well)
Following that look at Manfrotto and Giottos - both are decent and do the job.
Personally I'd avoid Velbon, Hama, Jessops, etc.

Whatever the tripod, make sure you get the right size and design for the weight of the camera and lens, and the type of use it will be put to. Too big and heavy will not get used, too small and flimsy will be frustrating . . .
If its going to travel, compact helps - like three legs sections means it collapses shorter (but is a liitle heavier).
If you can, try for carbon fibre - for all the usual reasons - rigid, lightweight, fairly tough

Re the camera mount - it should have a strong quick-release. Manfrotto are usually quite good in this respect.
For Gitzo & Fiesol tripods you need to buy a head and QR mount separately, and that's another whole minefield of options. Gitzo are good, other excellent brands are Markins and Kirk.

Take a look at the Velbon Sherpa tripod, you could probably find one of them for 50, if not a tiny bit more. I bought one a few years ago and it's still going strong. Good tripod, I don't know why Delta suggested you stay away from Velbon, they make quality tripods, they just don't cost the earth

Good choice. Manfrottos are generally well made.