Tripod Buying Guide

I really recommend having a tripod in your arsenal. In almost all situations, it will make your shots look sharper.

There are plenty of tripods out there and the price range is quite large. There are some really high-end models that are made of carbon fiber and then some small and compact beginner models which are constructed from aluminum.

I've always been fan of Manfrotto's "reasonable cost" models with a fixed ball head.

The ball head is what it sounds, a ball joint between the fixing plate and the tripod, allowing you to tilt the camera in all axis and fix it in place with one single move. These are very popular. Medium cost models come with a fixed head, while more expensive models allow you to purchase head separately.

My tip would be to avoid the cheapest models, but not to go overboard. Most expensive models aren't going to make that much difference for average photographers. Stability is key factor.

If you shoot DSLR movie, it's good to choose a tripod without fixed head. This will allow you to use fluid heads for smooth movements.

There are also monopods, and these will come handy in shooting situations that do not allow tripods. I've seen people shooting with monopods in some shrines for example, which doesn't allow tripods because they would obstruct visitors. Some sports shooting situations also forbid tripods because such fixed camera installations would pose danger for sportsmen. Monopods are ideal choice for these situations.