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For the sharp professional look to your photos - a tripod is a must! |
Keeping the camera still will reduce camera shake and help you to get clear sharp pictures. Most of us like the idea of this, but when it comes to carrying a tripod around the idea goes out the window. It takes longer to set up a shot with a tripod. This means fewer, more considered shots, which encourages you to visualise your shots and you will learn to become more selective in what you shoot.
I’ve put a few tips together to help you get the most out of your tripod and to make it worth lugging around.
1. Use a cable release to trip the shutter. If you don’t have one then put the camera on its timer setting.
Any contact with the camera will produce camera shake. You are probably using the camera in low light and will have slow shutter speeds. Depressing the shutter release button manually is enough to create camera shake even when using a tripod.
2. Ensure that the tripod is set up securely. If you are on mud or snow embed the feet points into the ground and check that it is secure and cannot move. Don’t set it up anywhere it can slide or be knocked over.
3. If you need extra stability hang your camera bag from the centre pole, some models may have a hook for this purpose. If your tripod doesn’t then hang your camera bag over the collar. This will have the same effect.
4. Extending the length of the legs in the right order will increase stability. Always use the thickest sections first. The last thing to extend when you need extra height is the centre column. The centre column is unstable and should only be used a last resort. Try to capture the shot on the rigid triangle below.
5. Use the spirit level to ensure that the tripod is level. If you are serious about taking your pictures - level up.
6. When you’ve finished the shoot clean the tripod. Ensure that there is no mud on the legs or in the joints. Wipe down with a damp cloth. This will make set up time faster when the tripod is next used.
Lou Smith is a professional photographer based in London UK. Her photographs can be viewed in the smithnsmith photo gallery at www.smithnsmith.com
smithnsmith are travel photographers and galleries include Black & White, London, Abstract, Architecture and Animals. smithnsmith offer free exhibition space in the Pulse Gallery. If you are serious about your photography then register with the Pulse. Registration and uploading of images is free.
© smithnsmith 2007 images may not be copied or used without persmission of the photographers
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