Every Photographer Needs a Tripod

A tripod is used to mount a camera onto so that photos can be taken in situations where you need a steadier hand or you can not hold the camera.

In low light photographers use a tripod so that they can take a photo at a slow shutter speed. This is very helpful when shooting landscapes at night, or an interior that does not have good lighting like a church.

For photographers using large lenses like in the case of sports and wildlife photography a tripod helps to steady the camera and reduce fatigue.

Macro and close up photography require a tripod because you are shooting with a longer focal length lens and you are close to your subject. In macro everything is magnified including your shake, using a tripod will make sure that your photos are sharp.

In order to use a self timer or remote with your camera it must be on a tripod, this is a great way to be included in family portraits for the holidays.

Material:

Many tripods are made of aluminum which is lightweight and less expensive.

Carbon fiber tripods are very lightweight and more expensive.

Sometimes legs are sold separately from heads.

Legs:

Are usually either 3 or 4 sections that extend to give more height. Taller people may want the 4 section tripod.

Twist-type: Each section is extended by unscrewing the leg a quarter turn and then retightening when the desired length is reached.

Clip-type: Each section is extended by opening the clip and then closing the clip when the desired length is achieved.

Personal preference as to which is best for you.

Tripod Head:

Some are sold separately from the legs.

This is where the camera mounts to the tripod.

Choose a head that has a "quick release plate"-this makes it easier to mount and remove camera quickly.

"Ball-head"-very easy to use and allows free movement of the camera with one point of control. For many people this is an easier head to use, however for people with larger cameras and lenses it may not be the best choice because it is not as strong. That is not to say that your camera can fall off but it may slip out of its adjustment.

"Pan-Tilt Head"- this type of head has a three way adjustment to it with separate handles controlling horizontal, vertical and panning movements. Some people find there is more of a learning curve to this type of tripod head but it is more accurate to make adjustments with and is better for larger cameras and lenses.