Skipping the Tripod with an Image Stabilization Lens
This warning is only partly true. Tripods can be a matter of preference—or what a certain type of photography dictates. While a tripod may be cumbersome to drag along outdoors, professional landscape photographers are rarely seen without one. Conversely, in other genres of photography, it’s preferable to move around the subject with flexibility. The ability to capture different angles by hand-holding the camera is especially useful for hovering over a newborn or creatively capturing the blithe spirit of a teenager flitting around in her hot new outfit.
Quality lightweight tripods are available, but they come with a big price tag. A carbon-fiber tripod can run over $3,000—and don’t forget the head! Cutting corners by buying a flimsy tripod for outdoor photography is unwise because a strong gust of wind can topple the tripod along with your camera.
MeFoto makes the “Globe Trotter,” a sturdy travel tripod that has a loop under the head to hang a weight for added stability. The legs fold up on themselves to fit snugly in a small case. Some models can be disassembled to become a monopod.
MeFoto’s Globe Trotter model for travel comes in aluminum and carbon fiber. It is sturdy and, although inexpensive, is certainly not cheap, receiving great reviews on use and durability. The head even has a tiny built-in level for getting the horizon straight.
MeFoto tripod folds up on itself and fits into a smaller than normal case.
Looking down to the top of the tripod, check out the level and quick-release plate.
Adjustment knobs on the ballhead are compact for lessening weight and bulk.