Camera Tripod Variations & Uses
A tripod is a camera support that, unlike a monopod, supports each leg at its furthest extent. The use of three or more legs allows the user to set up the tripod with legs staggered in order to decrease its overall height. Tripods can be used to mount an SLR camera, camcorder or binoculars on top of a stable platform for low-level shooting; they are also frequently used with photography and video lighting as well as for photographic purposes when using long telephoto lenses. Even though the description of a tripod is fairly plain, there are a variety of types and styles designed to fit various needs. A common tripod with two legs is frequently called a folding tripod or 'studio' tripod. Portable tripods are available for use with cameras or binoculars in outdoors situations where they can be easily transported. Many photographers like to use tripods when touring the battlefield; in order to prevent damage to the camera or binoculars, they also carry cases. The following article will address some of the basics of tripods and variations in making choices.
Robust Tabletop Tripod
A sturdy tabletop tripod that mounts directly on top of a table is often called simply a 'tripod.’ These tripods are very convenient for use with superzoom digital cameras and pocket digital cameras. They are also useful for taking pictures of objects you want to show up larger than it really is, such as a coin, a flower or other object on a table top. Tabletop tripods usually have a simple quick release or spring-loaded clamp that enables the camera to be quickly attached and detached from the tripod. Some of them have legs that can extend higher than normal so you can photograph above eye level, such as photographing kids at their sports event (but not too high!).
A professional-quality tabletop tripod is made of carbon fiber which enables it to be lightweight but also very strong. Carbon fiber tripods are authentically expensive and are definitely not something you ever want to use to carry a camera. Some of the more expensive carbon fiber tripods have a locking lever that enables the legs to be folded very compactly.
Binocular Tripod
A binocular tripod is used to hold a pair of binoculars steady for taking photographs of far away objects, such as birds or mountains, while using both eyes together. This type of tripod usually has a quick release that enables the binoculars to be quickly attached and detached from the tripod. A binocular tripod is typically very small in size so it can easily be carried in a pocket or compact case.
To use a binocular tripod, you need to locate a surface that is fairly steady and will not shake from movement (such as your car window, a park bench or even an ATV). Depending on your situation, you can elevate the base of your binocular tripod above ground by placing it on top of rocks or other objects. You will also need to either anchor your binoculars with something solid (a heavy rock) or apply downward pressure on them with your hand. It is important to anchor the binoculars so they do not move around or shake.
Even though a binocular tripod is portable, it also works best when it is mounted on a stable object that's fairly rigid. A solid table can help stabilize the base of the tripod as well as improve hand-eye coordination. You should also place a small amount of sand or some other type of grit in the base in order to prevent slippage. Many people prefer shooting with both eyes together because this helps them get faster and more accurate shots without getting dizzy from straining their neck.
Stereo Tripod
A stereo tripod is a specialized type of tripod that is designed to hold binoculars and a camera together. Binoculars and cameras are fitted onto the stereo tripod either by using quick release clamps or threaded mounting holes. Most stereo tripods have legs that can be positioned in various ways that allow you to take pictures of objects above eye level or on uneven surfaces. There are other types of tripods (such as a compass tripod) that can be used to shoot with both eyes; however, you will want a longer focal length lens (or zoom settings) than normal when shooting with both eyes. A good example is using your binoculars when shooting ocean scenes.
Compass Tripod
A compass tripod is a tripod that uses a compass to orient the camera in order to shoot straight up as well as straight down. These tripods usually have a universal mounting platform and an adjustable arm. This enables the photographer to flip or spin the camera in any direction so that it can take pictures of things at any angle. The most common type of compass tripod has an adapter plate that attaches directly on top of a digital point and shoot camera; they also work with larger cameras but may not fit as firmly. Compass tripods are available in different sizes and are typically used by people who want to view scenes from above ground level.
The main idea behind using a compass tripod is to be able to see your subject from any angle. You might also use it for shooting things that are on the ground but can't be reached with a normal tripod. However, you will need to take into consideration any height restrictions for photography.
Compass tripods are designed for people who want faster and easier shots without having to go through the normal setup process. Some of these tripods include a small turning turret that enables you to spin the camera by hand using one hand while viewing your subject with the other hand. They are usually very compact in size and perfect for taking pictures of things fast moving or that move too slowly for your standard pointed-and-shoot camera. You can also use a compass tripod to take panoramic images.
Compass tripods are similar in size and setup to a regular pointing-and-shooting tripod but with one significant difference: they do not have adjustments for elevation. As with a pointing-and-shooting tripod, the compass tripod is leveled by referencing the North star, although usually it can be done manually, without the need for additional equipment. Compass tripods are most widely used by hunters who want to get shots of their trophy animals from above ground level
Compass tripods typically have either three or four legs and can be adjusted into different angles and positions.
Conclusion
The most important thing to remember when taking pictures with your camera is that you have to be willing to take risks. Especially if you are not sure what type of creative images you want to get, just take pictures and experiment with as many styles/angles, focal lengths, exposures and lighting as possible. If the results come out bad, just erase or delete them – doing so does not hurt your camera. But if they turn out good, then it is still worth it!
Take pictures of people or pets in action (or even yourself), moving objects (cars driving by), animals, birds or children in action.