So, you've mastered all the skills and you feel your photos are pretty amazing, but you still feel there's that little special sharpness still missing? The answer could be as simple as the use of a Tripod.
Make your photos extra sharp by mastering the art of always using a tripod.
As the name suggests, a tripod is a three-legged stand that your camera attaches to so that you can mount your camera, leaving your hands free and away from steadying your camera allowing you to achieve a sharp, clear photo.
When purchasing a tripod always check that your camera fits the attachment and also, if you have a digital video recorder, that the attachment fits that also.
Hence getting better value for your money when you can use both items on the one tripod.
Despite the fact that we have said that a tripod is a three-legged stand, we now want to tell you about the benefits of a Monopod.
This still falls under the category of a tripod but as the name suggests, only has one leg.
It can be disguised as a tramping stick and when needed you simply take the handle off and reveal the mount for your camera.
Your camera attaches to the monopod the same way as the tripod but because it only has one leg you are required to use your hand to keep the camera up so it doesn't fall over.
The reason they are popular is because the monopod stops your camera moving up and down creating a sharp photo and also allows your hands to rest hence the shake of the camera is reduced.
If you feel you still required additional support we would suggest that you lean yourself or your camera against a sturdy object such as a fence or a wall.
Also, there is the Chain Pod.
An ingenious design which, if you are a diy'er, can be made reasonably easily.
It consists of a length of chain or string, which has a loop at one end to accommodate your foot.
The other end is attached to your camera.
To use the chain pod place one foot into the loop and stand on it, then pull your camera upwards so that the chain or string is tight while you are taking your photo.
The tension created in the chain or string while you are taking your photo will reduce any camera shake just as a monopod does.
The fantastic advantage of the chain pod is that you can simply roll it up and pop it away in your backpack or pocket.
Then we have the Dolly, which is a tripod with wheels and brakes.
Although it isn't of much use outside or in uneven areas, inside it allows you to move your tripod around very easily and smoothly without the need to lift your camera up.
Dolly attachments are available for regular tripods.
If you use your car like an office, the car window mount is the perfect gadget for you.
As the name suggests, you can attach your camera to your car window and take photos while remaining in your car.
Naturally, they will also mount to your home desk when you photograph small items for instance required for an eBay sale.
As a beginner it is not necessary to buy all this equipment straight off.
A table, or any flat surface will act as a tripod when you need a sharp focused photo.
Always remember that cameras can and do topple from surfaces such as armchairs, rocks, etc so please only use such surfaces as an emergency measure only.
When you do decide it is time to purchase a tripod, I recommend you first investigate the standard tripod with telescoping legs that stand 5 - 6 feet at full extension.
Purchase a sturdy model such as one in aluminium as it will give you better stability.
Be aware that heavier is better than lighter, as long as you can carry it around comfortably.
A level indicator is also a great idea because when taking landscape photos you may as well line them up accurately and save considerable time instead of needing to fix them up later on the computer.
Tips on how best to use your Tripod.
I'm sure you are wondering what is there to know, mount the camera, set the legs of the tripod and shoot.
Yes, that is what you do most of the time, however these tips could really assist you to maximize your tripod shots.
The longer the legs of your tripod the less stable the tripod becomes, so only extend the legs out enough to enable you to set the camera in the correct position.
Sometimes, when you press for the shutter, it causes movement in the camera.
To minimize this, with your other hand, press down the top of your camera directly above the tripod mount.
This will help reduce further movement.
To rid movement altogether, it pays to purchase a remote button for the camera shutter activation.
Tripods with a quick release mount will allow you to remove your camera quickly from the tripod allowing you to grab that candid photo opportunity that you just can't help yourself from snapping.
Make your photos extra sharp by mastering the art of always using a tripod.
As the name suggests, a tripod is a three-legged stand that your camera attaches to so that you can mount your camera, leaving your hands free and away from steadying your camera allowing you to achieve a sharp, clear photo.
When purchasing a tripod always check that your camera fits the attachment and also, if you have a digital video recorder, that the attachment fits that also.
Hence getting better value for your money when you can use both items on the one tripod.
Despite the fact that we have said that a tripod is a three-legged stand, we now want to tell you about the benefits of a Monopod.
This still falls under the category of a tripod but as the name suggests, only has one leg.
It can be disguised as a tramping stick and when needed you simply take the handle off and reveal the mount for your camera.
Your camera attaches to the monopod the same way as the tripod but because it only has one leg you are required to use your hand to keep the camera up so it doesn't fall over.
The reason they are popular is because the monopod stops your camera moving up and down creating a sharp photo and also allows your hands to rest hence the shake of the camera is reduced.
If you feel you still required additional support we would suggest that you lean yourself or your camera against a sturdy object such as a fence or a wall.
Also, there is the Chain Pod.
An ingenious design which, if you are a diy'er, can be made reasonably easily.
It consists of a length of chain or string, which has a loop at one end to accommodate your foot.
The other end is attached to your camera.
To use the chain pod place one foot into the loop and stand on it, then pull your camera upwards so that the chain or string is tight while you are taking your photo.
The tension created in the chain or string while you are taking your photo will reduce any camera shake just as a monopod does.
The fantastic advantage of the chain pod is that you can simply roll it up and pop it away in your backpack or pocket.
Then we have the Dolly, which is a tripod with wheels and brakes.
Although it isn't of much use outside or in uneven areas, inside it allows you to move your tripod around very easily and smoothly without the need to lift your camera up.
Dolly attachments are available for regular tripods.
If you use your car like an office, the car window mount is the perfect gadget for you.
As the name suggests, you can attach your camera to your car window and take photos while remaining in your car.
Naturally, they will also mount to your home desk when you photograph small items for instance required for an eBay sale.
As a beginner it is not necessary to buy all this equipment straight off.
A table, or any flat surface will act as a tripod when you need a sharp focused photo.
Always remember that cameras can and do topple from surfaces such as armchairs, rocks, etc so please only use such surfaces as an emergency measure only.
When you do decide it is time to purchase a tripod, I recommend you first investigate the standard tripod with telescoping legs that stand 5 - 6 feet at full extension.
Purchase a sturdy model such as one in aluminium as it will give you better stability.
Be aware that heavier is better than lighter, as long as you can carry it around comfortably.
A level indicator is also a great idea because when taking landscape photos you may as well line them up accurately and save considerable time instead of needing to fix them up later on the computer.
Tips on how best to use your Tripod.
I'm sure you are wondering what is there to know, mount the camera, set the legs of the tripod and shoot.
Yes, that is what you do most of the time, however these tips could really assist you to maximize your tripod shots.
The longer the legs of your tripod the less stable the tripod becomes, so only extend the legs out enough to enable you to set the camera in the correct position.
Sometimes, when you press for the shutter, it causes movement in the camera.
To minimize this, with your other hand, press down the top of your camera directly above the tripod mount.
This will help reduce further movement.
To rid movement altogether, it pays to purchase a remote button for the camera shutter activation.
Tripods with a quick release mount will allow you to remove your camera quickly from the tripod allowing you to grab that candid photo opportunity that you just can't help yourself from snapping.
SHARE
