Lightweight Tripods for Photographers
on the Move
Tripods are often quoted as photography's most hated accessory but it's hard to see why so many photographers view them so adversely. It may be because of the bulk and weight they add to a photographer's kit - or perhaps because the high ISO capabilities of many recently-released cameras allow camera users to feel a tripod isn't necessary. But shooting with high ISO settings incurs a cost in the form of increased noise and compromised sharpness. Furthermore, using a tripod can dramatically improve shots like portraits and low-light scenes. Finally, there are situations where you simply can't take the shot unless the camera is on a tripod.
A tripod can be a great aid to shot composition as it allows you to concentrate on framing the subject. It is also useful for shooting portraits because you can compose the shot and then trigger the shot remotely while you are engaging with your subjects. People feel more relaxed when they have eye contact and the tripod will make this easy and comfortable for you and your subjects.
Essentially, the longer the exposure time, the more necessary a tripod becomes. Experienced photographers with heavy cameras may be able to take hand-held at shutter speeds as slow as 1/15 second - provided they use wide-angle lenses (but not for tele shots). Monopods, beanbags, clamps and tensioning chains or strings (which are attached to the camera and pulled tight to prevent movement in one dimension) can provide a little more latitude but for exposures longer than about a second, a tripod is a must.
The longer the exposure time, the greater the need for the camera to be held steady. This can be difficult with a lightweight tripod. Knowledgeable photographers make or buy a small bag that can be filled with stones and hang it from the central column of the tripod. This adds weight - and, therefore, stability - to the system.
Stability will also decrease as the head of the tripod is raised. Consequently, if you can keep the head as low as possible, the chance of camera shake is reduced. Avoid taking long exposures in windy conditions.
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