[5-22] "Tripoding 101"

Until late-2019 I didn't use a tripod.

Reasons for not:

1) Synchronized flash freezes motion (no concern for movement blur)

2) Nimble-ness (not tethered, easier to move, more angles)

3) Less gear (lower costs)

I was right (on above), but silly to be unaware of weightier benefits:

Lock → I can use my hands while talking/directing

Lock → no more lugging (when adjusting a mirror, light, flash direction)

Lock → camera sits (no need “find a safe place” to rest a camera, pick it back up)

Weight → no need for neck strap or holster, less fatigue (lens is 3.62 lbs)

Technique → the spherical ball head helps with non-verbal direction (rotates, tilts)

Technique → adds friction for precise/subtle adjustments (in composition)

Technique → ❕locks a desired composition; I can focus on entirely directing the client

Aesthetic → no neck awkward strap

Aesthetics → increases formality; physically separates me and machine; I can point camera away

Technique → for slower shutter (1/45, 1/60) speeds, for adding continuous/ambient light

height → to stabilize camera above eye-level

fun → enjoyable, increases efficiency (once handing becomes intuitive)

Downsides:

Danger → the camera may tip over and fall

Time → experience needed to learn the movements

$$ → the cost of a decent tripod and ball head

Current tripod : Manfrotto MT290XT 290

Ball head: Arca-Swiss p0 Monoball