Anything I should know before purchasing a tripod?

[slash131]

Hello,
I was wondering if there was anything I should know before purchasing a tripod, for example, the price, the compatibility (I own a Canon S2 IS), size, etc.

Many thanks,

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[TampaJim]

I have a SunPak 9001 UT and I am very happy with it. Great quality, stability and functionality.

[DonSchap]

One of the bigger problems is that photographers do not fully appreciate how much weight they will be stacking on their poor tripod.

A relatively easy and decent test is to simply press down on the tripod. If it starts to give, forget it. Look for mounts that can hold at least 8 to 10 pounds, easily.

If price isn't a concern, you may want to look at the Bogen Manfrotto line of offerings. Although these are professionally rated, they will give you a sense of "good tool use" and thought-filled construction & design. You may not buy one, but you will have a much better appreciation of what to look for. The local camera retailer will, most likely, keep other brands in their selections.

Watching your tripod slowly collapse under the camera's weight is one horrific sight. The only thing worse to look at is... the end result, as your camera and flash are splashed to the four winds, while everyone else... just walks away saying, "I'm so sorry..." :(

Another often overlooked aspect of the tripod is "HEIGHT". If you are a six-foot man/woman, most general tripods will NOT be tall enough to stand behind and comfortably use. You will find yourself, hunched over or crouching, to peer through the camera's viewfinder. This awkward angle can distort your focal plane and lead to many out-of-focus shots. Get a tripod that can reach the proper height for you, because you can always adjust them down for the picture-taking, attitude-challenged person in your family. :D

[slash131]

Many thanks to all of you; my tripod was moderately cheap, but very stable (it supports the S2 IS). Now I just have to become comfortable by practising with it. Hopefully I will get some moon shots tonight (full moon). Once again, many thanks!

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