Lino Manfrotto, inventor of the eponymous line of photo video gear, has died at age 80.

Lino Manfrotto (right) and his business partner Gilberto Battocchio (left) in 1976. Photo via Manfrotto US.

PetaPixel describes his journey:

“Manfrotto started his career in photography as a photojournalist for a couple of local newspapers in his hometown. In the late 1960s, Manfrotto began designing his own stands, booms, and telescopic rods in his garage. After partnering with mechanical engineer Gilberto Battocchio, Manfrotto launched his first tripod in 1974.”

My take: I did not know that Manfrotto was a person! Thank you, Lino, for channeling your frustration with poor equipment into wonderful, quality gear for all of us. I stand for you!