How to choose a tripod for a camera

For every photographer, sooner or later there comes a time when further improvement in the quality of his photographs is impossible without purchasing a tripod. This gadget allows you to shoot in a static state and get unique shots with exceptional clarity. With the help of this device, even beginners will be able to take shots that were previously inaccessible to them.

Which tripod should I choose for my camera?

First of all, you need to decide where and how you plan to shoot. If there are dynamic scenes ahead and the time for a successful shot is measured in seconds, It’s not worth considering options with three supports. But a tripod becomes indispensable when shooting at long shutter speeds, especially when it comes to using heavy cameras with long focal length lenses.

It must be remembered that different situations require different devices. There is simply no one solution suitable for every situation.

Criterias of choice

There are main factors that determine the nature of the purchase. More often pay attention to the stability of the device, its weight and cost.

1. Material. The options available on the market are made of either aluminum or carbon fiber. The former cost less, but are more stable. Carbon fiber tripods are much lighter and reduce vibration more effectively, but are in a different price category.
2. Number of sections. There can be from two to five. The more there are, the less space the device takes up when folded.However, tripods with a couple of sections are more stable.
3. Central column. It is suitable for situations where height plays a key role. When shooting landscapes, the column will only get in the way, as it will reduce the reliability of the camera installation and will not allow you to set the camera as low as possible.
4. Height. The characteristic is important in situations where you need to shoot “eye to eye”. In other cases, too large a device will only get in the way. This includes excess weight and difficulties during transportation. The minimum value is important for macro photography and landscape photography.
5. Leg diameter. This parameter directly affects how firmly the tripod will stand on the surface. The bigger it is, the better.
6. Equipment dimensions. It will be very unpleasant to make a purchase and find out that transporting it even when folded is inconvenient. It is worth assessing your options for transporting photographic equipment before purchasing.
7. Leg tips. They are made of rubber or steel. By type there are spikes or platforms, or combinations of these two varieties. For soft ground during street photography, spikes are perfect, and for hard surfaces, rubber tips are an ideal option.

Consider all the listed parameters to buy the most suitable gadget.

The main disadvantages of tripods

Despite the obvious advantages of using tripods, there are disadvantages:

• Setup and installation take time, which can lead to missed moments.
• If handled incorrectly, there is a risk of damaging the camera.
• Discomfort due to additional weight and occupied volume.
• Difficulties in shooting in crowded places.
• Good fixtures cost significant amounts of money.

To purchase a high-quality tripod, it is important to evaluate your capabilities and determine which shooting is closer to you. Also consider the available equipment, bulky devices with large lenses require special treatment.

Top 10 Best Tripods of 2020

Below are some of this year's standout models. This not a rating listing models from highest quality to lowest quality, but it’s definitely worth paying attention to them:

• Velbon CX-888. Good performance, convenient removable platform and light weight.
• JOBY GorillaPod 3K Kit. Possibility of installation on most types of surfaces and mounting of cameras weighing up to three kilograms.
• Rekam RT-P35. Stability and ease of use due to the use of soft couplings in the design.
• Polaroid 50. Compact tripod, folded length 43 centimeters.
• Rekam ZET-90. A professional device with a margin of safety, but not heavy.
• Manfrotto Mkcompactadv (Compact Advanced). Equipped with a folding head with three degrees of freedom.
• Velbon EX-Mini. Reliable design made from quality materials. Suitable for medium sized cameras.
• SIRUI ET-2204+E-20. With a low weight of 1.3 kilograms, it can easily withstand up to 13 kg of load.
• Canon: MeFOTO BackPacker. It features a large number of colors - from caramel red to matte titanium.
• Manfrotto 290. An amateur series that retains the advantages of professional devices.
• Manfrotto MT057C3-G. Equipped with a new system for quickly mounting the camera, which also allows you to adjust the shooting angle as smoothly and accurately as possible.

Choosing a tripod are guided by the expected working conditions. Low devices with spiked legs are suitable for landscape photographs. For studio shots, models with a central column and rubber feet are a good option. Also, do not overestimate your strength and buy a device that is too heavy, especially if you plan to carry it for a long time.