There are many choices, just like any other consumer product these days. There is everything from a $10 folding table top tripod, to $500+ professional tripods that a wedding photographer or news reporter might use. However you don't have to break the bank to get something that works.
Why would anybody want a tripod? A few reasons. If you have a camera with a self-timer, you can put that feature to good use with a tripod. Also with the combination of a self-timer and tripod, no longer will you have to ask a complete stranger to take your picture - and have it come out blurred, heads cut off, crooked, etc. And with a tripod you can make sure you don't make those same mistakes yourself. A tripod is also an absolute requirement to avoid blurring if you intend to take pictures in low light situations without a flash, night shots, or long exposures.
Here's what to look for when going shopping:
The tripod should be lightweight and easy to carry. If you get something heavy and awkward, you're less likely to make use of it on a regular basis. Just because you want something lightweight, doesn't mean it has to be weak. Aluminum is the material of choice. It is strong and lightweight.
The tripod should work with your camera. There is an industry standard threaded mounting hole on the bottom of most camera equipment. Better check to make sure, just in case. You'll also want to make sure the tripod is beefy enough to work with your equipment: a large video camera, for example. Some tripods have weight ratings for the equipment they are designed to support. [There are actually 2 different mounting sizes. 3/8" and 1/4" but 3/8" is the consumer standard]
The tripod should be adjustable. There are several areas where you want to look for adjustibility: each leg height should be set individually so you can get the tripod level. The legs should be linked together when they are deployed. [Not necessarily, having independent legs allows for greater flexibility and adaptation to shooting conditions. I prefer un-linked legs and use a tripod head with a level instead of relying on the tripod] This will assist you in getting the tripod level. There should be some sort of height adjustment for the tripod head, independent of the legs. Because once you've got it level, you don't want to fuss with the legs anymore. [Also, look for interchangeable heads. This gives you a lot more flexibility in the long run]
The mounting base should be flexible Besides fitting your camera, the mounting base should be adjustable by 90 degrees to take portrait shots with a still camera. It should be able to be tilted forward and back, and rotated 360 degrees. Level indicators are helpful for setting up, but if the tripod you choose doesn't come with any, you can purchase a round bubble level at the hardware store or photo shop. A quick release base is also handy so you can temporarily remove your expensive equipment from the tripod when moving between shots. It also makes attaching your equipment a lot easier since the screw mounting is on the removable base.
Here is an important piece of advice: NEVER fold a tripod for storage with your equipment attached, especially heavy equipment.
The tripod should be solid when deployed Check that any adjustments you make to the tripod are solid and won't move. Look for tightening knobs on all possible adjustment points to secure the tripod in place. Are the small parts on the tripod made out of plastic or metal? How good are the feet on the end of the legs for gripping wet or uneven surfaces? You can put cut tennis balls or sandbags on the ends of the legs for additional stability if it gets windy or slippery.
Don't sell yourself short Once you start using your tripod for one piece of equipment, you might want to use it with some other piece of equipment, like a video camera. Or may start longing for something more after purchasing that cheap tripod you thought was enough.
Test Drive If you can find a good photo shop in your area, you may be able to try out different tripods with your equipment before you buy.
Bottom line
Once you start using a tripod, you'll feel lost without one and future flexibility is important to consider in your purchase. Without emptying your bank account, of course.
[Be prepared to spend about 100-150$ for a tripod that will do everything you want. It sounds a bit expensive but it will prevent you from needlessly wasting money on several tripods that are inadequate]
Note: This text is also posted at »www.epinions.com/content_1740677252 and was edited and reposted here by the original author.
[Psychephylax additions]
 feedback form
 feedback form
by MacGyver  edited by Nick
last modified: 2003-03-19 10:14:09 |
