Tripods are ideal. Review on Choosing a Tripod

As complementary as peanut butter is to jelly, the camera and tripod are an age-old pairing that still manages to maintain relevance and unmatched functionality in a world dominated by image stabilization and Photoshop tricks. While the form and function of a tripod is far simpler to understand than the scrolling menus of today’s feature-packed DSLRs, it can still be a chore to choose the right setup for your needs from among a sea of manufacturers and seemingly comparable models. In this article, we’ll break down the basic types of tripod kits every photographer should consider and discuss the different categories of tripod heads and legs for those who wish to assemble a custom setup.

Tabletop Tripods

For some, the simplest and smallest solution is often the best, and appealing to this crowd is the tabletop tripod—a compact solution for the everyday shooter. Available in a range of types and sizes these tripods are commonly sold as kits, with a head and legs pre-attached, often inseparable and commonly reaching a maximum height of no more than a foot. These tripods are ideal for travelers, hikers, or those shooting in areas where full-size camera supports may be prohibited. Those requiring a tabletop support may also want to consider a bendable variation, such as the Joby Gorillapod line. These compact and lightweight supports can be used on a traditional flat surface or wrapped around a variety of objects(such as tree branches, pipes, and handlebars) to stabilize your camera on uneven terrain or achieve a unique new photographic perspective.

The Entry-Level Kit

Many tripod manufacturers are well aware that most entry-level and enthusiast photographers require a tripod that’s tall, durable, and relatively inexpensive without the need for customization or interchangeable parts. For this reason, manufacturers like Sunpak produce full-size tripod kits which, like the table-top tripods we discussed before, feature an inseparable legs-and-head.