It seems everybody when mentioning tripods, don't forget to use the word
"good".
Why does it always have to be a *good* tripod?
A *good* tripod is rigid and sturdy. It doesn't vibrate, flex or twist
easily even with the heaviest load you place on its head.
Why can't I use a cheap plastic tripod? (which is also much lighter)
Isn't it just a thing where you put your camera, so it doesn't shake when
you take the picture?
What is the big deal?
Am I missing something?
You have the explanation in your question: "so it doesn't shake when you
take the picture."
For the purpose of this posting I'll define a "cheap" tripod as one of the
overpriced models commonly found in the camera section of Meijer, Wal-Mart,
K-Mart or [fill in the name of your favorite discount department
store]-Mart. The legs flex and the tripod twists too easily. Play with
one of their display models (but don't break it) and then go to a large
camera store and play with a Bogen 3021 leg set or comparable Gitzo. The
Bogen 3021 is one of the most popular, very sturdy portable tripods, it
puts the camera at eye level *without* extending the center column (an
extended center column is yet another source of flexing), and it's among
the less expensive leg sets among the pro-grade tripod makers. Yes, it's
noticeably heavier than the "cheap" variety, especially after you add a
Bogen all-metal head, but it's also noticeably sturdier and will last much,
much longer.
Folded up, a pro grade tripod with head also makes a marvelous self-defense
weapon when doing late night architectural shooting in the downtown areas
of very large cities. I have no fear of damaging my Bogen using it in that
manner and I could quickly get back to making photographs. Lesser
"consumer grade" tripods would bend or break.
-- John
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