A whole new world has opened up to me

[westy79]

This may seem a pretty pointless thread but last night the penny finally dropped about keeping the camera still. 5 months into my DSLR journey i decided to test a tripod. There was little light in my garden and i wanted to get a sharp shot to do some tests. i was amazed how i could set the iso to 200, increase the f. number and stand back as the camera produced lovely shots at 5,10 and 20 second exposures. The best i could manage handheld was a very dark unsharp image. Even though i have read so much about tripods i really was pleased with the difference. Sure a tripod is not practical for everyday shots but im sure my landscape shots can improve.
Now the dilema of which tripod to buy!!

[K1W1]

Get a decent one it will last way longer than your D40.
Mine was a Christmas present in 1982.

[TheWengler]

My tripod has been one of my most important purchases. I always regret it when I leave it at home. I use it for nearly every landscape shot.

5-20 seconds sounds kind of long for a close up of a plant, unless you have no wind.

[tim11]

Wait till you get a good tripod then we will introduce you to a good macro lens. :D That's a hint. Yes tripod isn't an everyday thing for me but it has its time and place that I can't do without.
I can relate and share your excitement upon finding this new world.

[DiamondSCattleCo]

I don't know what your budget is like, but for less expensive tripods, I'd recommend the Velbon Sherpa 200R. I bought one a few months ago, and really like it. The pan head emulates a ball on two of the axis, so you only have one lever to goof with (unless you're tilting the camera). And its fairly stable, especially for smaller lenses. I wouldn't try to mount of the monsters that some of these guys use, but for casual stuff it works very well without breaking the bank.

[westy79]

cheers, i was photographing the whole garden with the only source of light being the security light. Although 20 seconds was very long it was more of a test and the results were pleasing. Im going to America in a few weeks so would like to get one for then, as im eager for a Times Square night trail shot.

[Dread Pirate Roberts]

Use the site search feature. eg the following are good
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/showthread.php?t=41488&highlight=tripod
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/showthread.php?t=43362&highlight=tripod