50 Years of Manfrotto

It all started in the late 1960s with Lino Manfrotto, a photographer with a clear vision and a hands-on mindset. Frustrated by the studio gear limitations of the time, he created a tall yet lightweight lamp stand—something rare back then. That first invention inspired a range of tools that transformed the way professionals worked.

In 1972, Lino partnered with technician Gilberto Battocchio. Two years later, they launched the first Manfrotto tripod. Its smart design and versatility made it a global success. Soon after came the Superboom, Autopole®, and Super Clamp®—essential tools in studios everywhere.

As Manfrotto grew, so did its reach. When Lino’s shares were acquired by the British Vitec Group (now Videndum plc), the brand gained access to new markets and strengthened its presence in global broadcast and content creation.

From "Proven Professional" to "Imagine More"

Our brand has evolved, but the mission stays the same: support creators. "Imagine More" reflects our belief in the power of ideas and the importance of tools that help bring them to life—whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out.

As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, Manfrotto remains a trusted name for professionals around the world. Our tools are built to keep up with modern content creation—so you can focus on your craft, not your gear.