For the longest time I figured I didn't need a tripod to get good photos. Sometimes, I was right. And sometimes I was far from right. I bought a cheap, cheap tripod a couple of years ago, and it served only to confirm my attitude that I would do all right without a tripod.
My error. I have determined that without doubt, that cheapie is NOT representative of the benefits of a quality piece of gear. I got the itch a couple of months ago to get a tripod to go with my new camcorder. (I knew immediately that I cannot shoot video freehand and be happy.)
And, I had to toss a LOT of photos for blurriness. My Kodak P880 takes an acceptable image. But, it writes data slowly to memory, and I have a tendency to drop it too quickly when the shot is taken.
I found a nice Bogen-Manfrotto tripod and head set on Craigslist. Called the owner, and a couple of hours later I was the proud owner of a very nice piece of equipment for an amateur. For you gear dweebs, the legs are Model 3033 and the head is a 3160. I'm happy.
So, I have to keep an eye out for mirrors... But, I was always worried that dragging the thing around would be a hassle. Well, the more I drag it around, the more the hassle fades in inverse proportion to the benefits.
Benefits:
I can study the scene on the LCD, and tweak a little or a lot before shooting. Raise or lower the camera, or the angle, or zoom.
Less cropping due to better ability to focus on composition.
I can set the height of the camera, rock steady, and bend over as needed, or shade the LCD in bright light.
It is easy to set and keep the camera level. The tripod has a bubble level in it.
Photos tossed out are tossed because of poor composition, light, the dog trots in, etc. Not because I didn't hold the camera steady. I shoot less exposures to get my MLS photos and blog photos.
If I like the setup, I can shoot identical photos after moving stuff in the shot. Like when I leave my camera bag on the counter.
I can take the same shot, with and without flash, for comparison. Since I use Auto, point and shoot, settings on the camera, the ability to get both exposures to select one later is very convenient.
With quick release plates, I can go from camera to camera to video in moments. The units just slip in and out and are secured with a cam lock in the head. I bought extra QR plates on Ebay.
And, finally, it seems people are impressed that I care enough to have better than common gear.
It isn't perfect, and it is difficult to use in small rooms, like bathrooms and laundry rooms. For them, I guess I will just have to hold the camera steady and patiently in hand.
But, I predict the tripod will be a permanent member of the team.
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