Why tripods are used

Using a tripod when using a camcorder will dramatically help picture quality as it will allow you to pan smoothly making your movies lookmuch more professional. Taking photos of small objects close-up can require a lot of skill, and minor movements will be crucial to a perfect image. Using a tripod will noticeably reduce unwanted movement of the camera. Panning is vital in taking stunning action shots as it allows you to really capture the movement.

Having a tripod makes panning much easier and more fluid. A tripod is key in getting great nature shots as you can be waiting around for hours for animals to make an appearance that might only last a few seconds, so you need to be ready.

Telephoto lenses tend to be difficult to steady. Their long focal length magnifies any vibration caused by the camera shutter and mirror, wind, or by the photographer themselves. Architectural and real estate photographers can capture beautiful, stretchy clouds that move above buildings; street photographers can capture people streaming through an archway; and even event photographers can shoot dancers as they whirl around a room. First, if you freeze the frame, you can spend extra time evaluating it, considering your focus point, etc.

This makes for technically stronger images. Second, a frozen frame lets you work with advanced techniques such as high dynamic range imaging and focus stacking , which both require multiple shots taken of the exact same subject. Plus, a stable tripod is hugely useful for panning during action photography; you can easily follow the subject as they move past, whereas handholding can be a lot shakier and jerkier. Beginner photographers often come home with soft images, and they blame everything: the camera, the lens, the situation.

So make sure you invest in a genuinely good, capable tripod. A tripod takes time to set up — to extend the legs and position them exactly as you want. It also takes time to position your camera and lock the tripod head before taking a shot. You see, the slower you go, the more time you spend thinking about composition and light. A slow photographer approaches their photos more carefully.

Therefore, you should be more careful about inspecting the head than any other part of the tripod. Most photographers look for tripods that feature a ball head. A ball head allows a camera to "float" on top of a big ball bearing. A single control loosens and tightens the head in every direction. This is ideal for photographers who habitually re-position their cameras during photo shoots.

In addition, serious photographers tend to use tripods with three-way heads, which provide three separate, screw-like controls to tighten each of the three X, Y, and Z axes.

The advantage of having multiple heads is that it's easier to control your camera. The downside is that these types of tripods cost more. Used versions might run a bit less, but you will still be spending more on a tri-head tripod than one that features a single head. To get the best shot without wasting valuable time, look for a tripod that features a quick-release plate.

The metal piece is basically a pad that screws into the bottom of the camera and stays there. Once the plate is connected, you can leave it there even when you aren't using the tripod.

The plate allows you to secure your camera into place with a simple snap instead of having to fiddle with screws. A flick of your thumb on the quick-release lever releases the camera from the tripod when you're done taking your shot. To save even more money on a used tripod, you can buy a camera plate and attach it to your digital camera , instead of having to purchase it as part of an expensive tripod package. Used tripods are available at some photo shops, but are more prevalent at consignment stores and secondhand retailers.

The Internet is also a stellar venue in which to shop for used tripods. Websites including eBay and OneCall. However, the drawback to purchasing a used tripod online is that you don't get the chance to examine it firsthand. Ideally, you want to be able to test out a used tripod before purchasing it to ensure all of its features work properly and your camera fits well and moves comfortably on the tripod's head.

Tips for Purchasing Used Camera Tripods A camera tripod is a worthwhile investment that will last for decades provided you care for it properly. How to Take Better Pictures Ideas for Photography Taking Pictures at Night While there's nothing wrong with being frugal, you don't want to end up with a tripod that will compromise your images just because you are trying to save a few bucks. Before you buy a used camera tripod, consider the following tips first: Photo field : It's important to consider what you will be using your tripod for.

Make a list of the types of photography you engage in.