Best Tripod Photography Tips

A tripod aids in holding a camera steady to prevent out of focus shots due to camera shake. Sometimes a tripod is not practical, but it is still a necessary piece of equipment for a good nature and landscape photographer. It should be light enough to be carried easily, but sturdy enough to support the weight of your camera safely. Look for a pan head with 360 degree rotation and that it allows tilting the camera straight up and down. All locking devices should hold firm with no slippage.

A tubular designed tripod should have main leg sections that are at least ¾ inch diameter. The legs also need to have non-slip rubber tips for safety and to avoid scratching floors if used indoors. The center column that raises the camera height should be tube-within-a-tube type or geared construction. A well designed tripod has knobs and handles that are large enough and easy to use. A good test is when the legs are spread, lean heavily on the center. A good tripod should resist your pressure. Examine it carefully for finish and workmanship, you want it to last a long time.

Unipods can also be a useful tool. They are basically a one-legged tripod. The average unipod weighs about one pound, has three pull-out leg sections, and can have a strap for carrying. Another accessory many pros like to use is a bean bag. Around two pounds it is adaptable camera support for rugged location shooting. It’s perfect for nature and landscape photos. Set it on a wall, rock, fence post, or any other flat surface and nestle the camera in it. But a regular tripod is the better choice if possible.

Most pros also use what is called a soft-release button with their tripod. It screws over your camera’s shutter release button and lets you shoot with less finger pressure. You can leave it permanently on your camera to help avoid camera shake. A cable release is part of my equipment also. When you shoot with a tripod, a cable release keeps you from shaking the camera and the tripod as you press the shutter button. It is a length of cable that screws into the shutter button and has a button on the other end that releases the shutter.

 

There are plenty accessories and gadgets to help you Shoot More Photos of nature and landscapes, but the accessories won’t shoot a good photo. That’s totally up to you and your photo knowledge, but at the top of your equipment list should be a good tripod.

Best Natural Light Photography Tips You Should Know !