A Simple Guide to the Right Tripod

If you want to get serious about photography, then getting a tripod is one of your main requisites. True the camera has evolved into high-end models with capacities to eliminate noise. But, no matter how steady your hand is, there will come a time when you are just too exhausted to hold one properly especially during long outdoor shoots. This now is where the role of your tripod begins. But, how exactly are you going to get one without breaking the bank or getting confused with the plethora of tripods available today? The following list should easily help you through the search:

The Budget. Perhaps your nifty DSLR has left you nibbling on carrots for a whole week. Yes, you’ve lost weight, but don’t let that happen again with your tripod purchase. It is common sense to have a cheap tripod than to have none at all. If you have 30 bucks, there are plenty of brands that could do for a while. Better yet, ditch having debt and go buy wooden ones. Top scientist will veto for its stability; as long as you don’t hike with it for hours. But if you have the budget, then go ahead and buy yourself a Manfrotto or Gitzo.

The features. Cheap tripods only locks in one place compared to high-end brands that can let you angle the legs in different ways.  This is a due advantage especially in setting-up on uneven grounds. Look for this kind of feature if you plan to shoot outdoors especially on mountains. In addition, tripods with removable centers are a plus if you want to have a steady camera in taking pictures off the ground.

Tripod plates can either be quick release or not. The main advantage with QR’s is you can pull of your camera from your gear in no time. Another thing to consider is the tripod’s head. You can choose from a balls or pans. Generally, pan heads are more convenient to handle as it allows you to reverse your orientation without much screwing and unscrewing.

Does it fit? Yes, your camera and tripod should fall in love with each other too. Don’t make the mistake of buying a sleek (read: expensive) tripod that will be utterly useless with your camera. If your camera is too heavy and your tripod is very light, you will get only one thing – crash. So make sure the tripod can support the camera and no matter how heavy your future lenses will be. Bringing your camera to the store to see if they are compatible should get things right. On the other hand, if you plan to buy cheaper online, do your legwork first by asking experts around.

Finally, reliable tripods start at around 100 dollars. You can go as far as 300, but going beyond and you’re still an amateur is utterly nonsensical. During uncertain times like these, your extra bucks will look better on a bank account. Improve your composition first, sell great pictures and wait for the time when you can really afford a good tripod.