A tripod is an indispensable tool for photographers, whether you’re aiming to enhance your creative possibilities or want to take self-portraits. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover all you need to know about tripods, featuring insights from our Technical Editor, Andy Westlake.
Tripods are crucial for various photography styles, including low-light and night shots, light painting, long exposure techniques, and macro photography (especially for focus bracketing). They can significantly improve the quality of your videos as well, giving them a more polished appearance.
Many photographers feel they could benefit from using a tripod more frequently—or perhaps buying one if they haven’t yet. While modern cameras offer impressive high ISO and image stabilization features that facilitate handheld shooting in dim conditions, a tripod allows you to choose lower ISOs for superior image quality or experiment with long exposure effects.
Choosing a Tripod
Weight – Tripods have long been known for being bulky and cumbersome to set up. Fortunately, if you’ve been deterred by the weight of traditional metal tripods, new models are significantly lighter and more portable than ever before.
Carbon Fibre vs. Aluminium Alloy – In recent years, advancements in material technology have made carbon fibre a popular choice, as it is lightweight and provides better vibration dampening. Many tripods come in both materials; if your budget allows, I recommend opting for carbon fibre. Aluminium legs are generally cheaper but heavier.
Leg Sections – Three, Four, or Five? Previously, three-section legs were the norm, but now four and five-section legs are common, offering a more compact folded length for easier transport. Anti-twist leg locks make setup quicker than ever, and the Arca Swiss dovetail design has become standard for quick-release plates.
It’s also important to evaluate leg angles, especially if you’re photographing on uneven terrain or in tight spaces where you may need to spread one or two legs more widely than the rest. Look for legs that can be adjusted independently for maximum versatility.
Legs Continued – Flip Locks vs. Twist Locks – Some tripods feature flip locks, while others use twist locks. If fast setup is your priority, choose models with three sections and twist locks; for portability with less emphasis on speed, consider four or five-section tripods with flip locks (more leg sections usually mean a more compact folded size).
Additional Considerations
What’s the purpose of the centre column? Most tripods come with a centre column that can be extended to increase camera height, angled, or even inverted for stability at tricky angles. This is particularly valuable for macro photographers shooting from ground level. For enhanced stability, extend the legs fully before deploying the centre column.
Tripod Feet – Smooth rubber feet work best on hard surfaces ideal for indoor architecture and studio still life, while spiked metal feet offer better grip on uneven terrain. Some tripod designs have rubber feet with hidden metal spikes that can be revealed when needed.
Does brand and price matter? Previously, the market was dominated by Manfrotto and Gitzo. Now, you have a wider selection of brands such as Benro, 3 Legged Thing, Feisol, and Sirui, which provide competitive prices and innovative products. Established brands like Vanguard and Velbon still offer high-quality options. As always, keep in mind that you typically get what you pay for.
What about the tripod head? The competition in the market means there’s a broader selection of tripods and heads available, making it essential to choose the right option for your requirements. Read on for our summary of the top products and our recommendations.
Recommended Tripods and Kits
Tripods come in various designs and sizes, each with its own advantages. Here’s a helpful guide to tripods and kits:
Affordable Lightweight Tripods
You don’t need a heavy, pricey tripod to find a decent one. There are lightweight and durable models available for under £100. These may come with some compromises, like a lower maximum height and weight capacity, making them more suitable for smaller DSLR or mirrorless cameras rather than larger setups. A great choice is the Benro Slim TSL08 Carbon Fibre tripod + N00 ball head kit, extending to 146cm, folding to 51cm, and weighing just 1kg for a steal at around $140 / £117.
Another excellent option is the Vanguard VEO 3 GO 235AB. This five-section aluminium alloy travel tripod collapses down to 38cm and extends up to 136cm, supporting setups weighing up to 4kg. It’s priced reasonably at $170 / £150 and offers many other alloy and carbon fibre options.
Travel-Friendly Tripods
If you’re planning to travel for a city break or hike with your tripod, you’ll want something ultra-light and compact. Models with five-section legs and two-section centre columns can reduce these tripods to carry-on sizes. For a highly portable choice, the illustrious carbon-fibre Benro Bat Zero Series stands out. It features the impressive VX20 Arca-type compatible head, folds to just 35cm, and weighs only 0.83kg while extending to 41cm, priced around $250 / £220.
If you prefer a full-sized alternative, consider the 3 Legged Thing Punks Brian 2.0 for $270 / £219; it reaches a height of 1.86m yet folds down to 42cm, weighing 1.7kg including its ball head, with a robust load capacity exceeding 13kg.
Reliable Heavy-Duty Tripods
For photographers utilizing larger equipment, a strong and stable tripod is essential. These models tend to be more substantial and heavy, but can support hefty gear at eye level. One of our favorites is the Benro Mach3 range: budget-conscious photographers should consider the $125 / £123 (legs only) aluminium TMA28A, which offers a maximum height of 155.5cm, folds to 53cm, and weighs 1.76kg.
Leofoto is another brand worth considering.
The carbon fibre LS-324C is paired with the LH-40 Arca-compatible ball head, priced at £399 (not available in the US but can be found on Amazon). It features four-section legs with easy-to-use twist-grip locks, extends to 65 inches (1.7m), and weighs 1.88kg. The absence of a centre column allows for a more compact design, enabling you to go as low as 16.5cm quickly.
Most tripods come with centre columns that can only be adjusted vertically. However, for those who want to capture diverse angles, especially overhead shots, a tilting column can be very beneficial. Manfrotto’s impressive 190 Go! includes a column that can flip to a horizontal position due to a clever mechanism tucked within the central spider. Key specs include a maximum height of 152cm and a closed length of 45cm, priced at $260 / £169 for the 1.67kg aluminium model and £299 (no longer available in the US, found on Amazon) for the lighter carbon fibre version weighing 1.35kg.
Another excellent option is the Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AP, which boasts a multi-angle centre column (MACC) that can tilt and rotate to nearly any angle, making it ideal for capturing images in challenging positions while maintaining stability. This aluminum alloy tripod is compatible with various heads and costs $170 / £165 for the legs with the PH-32 head. It measures just under 64cm when closed and extends up to a maximum height of 177.5cm, weighing 2.6kg.
Premium Tripods
If you’re ready to invest as much in a tripod as you would on a quality lens, there are some fantastic high-end options. Gitzo stands out, with its $550 / £459 GT1555T Traveller Series 1 arguably being the best travel tripod available. What’s impressive here isn’t just the main specs—maximum height of 138cm, compact size of 35.5cm when packed, and a weight of 1.03kg without a head—but also its exceptional construction and stability. It supports a maximum load of 10kg, and the twist leg locks on the Traveler G are top-notch.
For those seeking a top-tier full-size tripod without budget constraints, brands like 3 Legged Thing, Benro, Leofoto, Manfrotto, and Vanguard offer plenty of choices. One standout is Gitzo’s Systematic tripods, known for their impressive stability and portability for location shoots. The GT3543LS is priced at $1,171 / £729 for the legs alone, weighing 2.03kg but able to hold a remarkable 28kg payload.
Low-Level Macro
If you enjoy photographing subjects very close to the ground, a compact tripod can be more effective than a full-sized one. The carbon fibre Benro Tortoise 03C with the GX25 ball head mini tripod kit retails for $290 / £179. Weighing just 920g, this tripod has a minimum height of 15cm and reaches 31.5cm at maximum extension. The GX25 ball head is notably stable and accommodates Arca-type plates.
For those on a budget, the Velbon EX Macro might be a good option, offering heights between 20.3cm and 56.3cm, priced around $40 / £49.
Specialist Tripods and Accessories
A variety of supports are available when a full-size tripod isn’t practical.
Versatile Supports
Having a compact but sturdy table-top tripod on hand can be beneficial for situations where larger tripods won’t fit. If you need to attach your camera to railings or tree branches, a flexible-legged Joby GorillaPod could be perfect. Available in various sizes and kits to cater to different needs, the GorillaPod 3K Pro shown here has a maximum load capacity of 3kg, ideal for most mirrorless cameras, priced at $81 / £89.
Go Anywhere – With Beanbags
In certain scenarios, such as shooting at ground level or resting your camera on a wall or car door, a beanbag can be incredibly useful. The LensCoat LensSack Pro Jr bean bag costs $94 / £98 and is among the best options, designed to support lenses up to 500mm. It features a 3/8in mounting screw for attaching a ball or gimbal head, which can also be removed for standard bean bag use.
Phone Holders
As smartphones become increasingly capable for photography, having a means to mount them on a tripod can be beneficial. Since they lack standard sockets, a clamp is necessary; look for options that fold flat when not in use. One of our favorites is the Joby Griptight ONE Micro Stand, priced at $36 / £29, which accommodates smartphones measuring 2.2-3.6 inches. Alternatively, the Manfrotto TwistGrip Universal Smartphone Clamp provides a sturdier option, including a shoe mount for a microphone or LED light, priced around $52 / £44.
Check out our guide on phone tripods.
Monopods
Monopods aren’t a direct substitute for tripods; instead, they offer extra support for heavy lenses that can’t be held for extended periods. There are numerous options available, with varying weights, heights, and load capacities; some even come with small tripod feet for added stability.
Some of our favorites include the excellent value Vanguard VEO 2S AM-264TR ($80 / £100). For those needing a higher-end solution, the £148 Manfrotto XPRO 5-section carbon-fibre monopod easily supports large telephoto lenses; it’s also available in a kit with tripod feet for $190 / £259.
Arca Swiss Grips and L-Brackets
The connection between a tripod and a camera is crucial for optimal performance. This is why the Arca Swiss pattern dovetail quick-release system is widely used—its clamp design securely holds the camera to the head. Its popularity has led to various Arca Swiss base plates designed for specific camera models, often enhancing the hand grip too.
Many of these also function as L-brackets, which allow for portrait shooting with the camera positioned over the head for improved stability. Custom aluminium alloy L-brackets are available for numerous camera models, so a quick web search can help you find one. Additionally, universal-fit L-brackets are also an option, making them particularly beneficial for landscape photography.
Guide to Tripod Heads
Photographic tripod heads come in four primary types, along with specialized options. Here’s a brief overview of the strengths and applications of each, accompanied by…
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This article highlights various accessories that can aid in specific situations.
Ball Heads
Ball heads are the most commonly used type of tripod head due to their lightweight design and quick usability, although achieving precise adjustments can be challenging. The best models allow for independent locking of the panning base and offer friction control for drag adjustments. A standout option is Sirui’s K-X series, featuring excellent friction control and an Arca Swiss-type quick release. Prices start at approximately $130 / £94 for the smallest Sirui K-10X. For a more budget-friendly choice, consider Vanguard’s Alta BH series, priced from $71 / £75 for the BH-100 to $83 / £95 for the bigger BH-300.
Geared Heads
Photographers needing precise composition control, like when shooting architecture or macro photos, will find geared heads invaluable. Manfrotto previously led in this category, but now Benro’s GD3WH, priced at $175 / £169, offers a portable yet precise option with Arca Swiss compatibility. Those on a budget might look into the $250 / £179 Manfrotto XPRO 3-Way Geared Head, though it’s made of more plastic and uses the RC2 camera plate.
3-Way Heads
3-way heads, or pan-and-tilt heads, are commonly found on lower-end tripods but become less popular as quality increases. They allow for independent adjustment in three axes but can be bulkier and heavier, making them better for studio settings. The Manfrotto MHXPRO-3W X-PRO 3-way Head ($200 / £129) is recommended for its retractable handles that enhance portability.
Gimbals
When using large telephoto lenses, traditional tripod heads may not hold them securely. Gimbal heads are a solution, suspending the lens for stability. The Gitzo Fluid Gimbal Head is our top choice at $400 / £429, offering smooth movements at slow speeds, while the Benro GH2 at $374 / £269 is a solid budget alternative.
Fluid Heads – Ideal for Video
Fluid heads are excellent for video setups, featuring long handles for smooth panning, a fluid chamber, and adjustable tension for better control. Some models include counterweights, allowing for effortless smoother movements when recording.
Panoramic Heads
Panoramic heads are specialized for capturing precise panoramic images and are often heavier. These heads enable careful rotation around the lens’s nodal point, greatly enhancing panoramic photography. They may be overly complex for casual use. For those interested, consider the Nodal Ninja NN3 with the RD10 rotator, around $223 / £283.
Macro Sliders
Although not traditional heads, macro sliders are add-ons that allow precise camera adjustments for macro photography, where minor shifts can significantly impact focus and composition. The Velbon Super Mag Slider (£219) allows smooth adjustments but is bulkier, whereas the Manfrotto 454 Micro Positioning Plate ($96 / £119) is a more compact option for fine-tuning focus.
Top Tips for Using a Tripod
- Minimize extension of the center column for better stability.
- On uneven surfaces, adjust the thin leg sections for leveling.
- Use a bag hung from the center column hook to reduce vibrations.
- Ensure all controls are completely tight before shooting.
- Utilize a remote release for the camera’s shutter.
- When shooting in portrait orientation, use an L-bracket to align the camera above the head.
- If using in saltwater, rinse well to prevent corrosion.
Understanding Tripod Specifications
Key specifications to consider when comparing tripods include:
- Maximum height
- Folded length
- Weight
- Load capacity
Also check the height when the center column isn’t extended—height generally equals stability. For low-angle shots, pay attention to the minimum height and how easily the center column can be adjusted; split columns are the quickest. Remember that load ratings vary by manufacturer and should be seen as rough estimates.
Popular Tripod Brands to Explore:
Additional Tripod Accessories
Once you’ve chosen the right tripod, various accessories may come in handy. James Abbott discusses the options below.
Special Feet for Diverse Situations
Most tripods include standard rubber feet; however, some feature feet that twist to reveal spikes for better grip on challenging terrains. Specialty feet are also available for use on snow, sand, and unstable surfaces.
Plamp for Stabilizing Subjects or Reflectors
The Wimberley Plamp may have a unique name, but it’s incredibly useful for macro and close-up work. It attaches to a tripod at one end, with a clip on the other for holding subjects like flowers in place or for supporting backgrounds or reflectors to balance light.
Tripod Bags
While most camera bags accommodate tripods, alternative bags may be necessary if yours doesn’t. These bags often fit specific models, and some tripods even come with bags included. Check the manufacturer’s site for compatible bags if your tripod didn’t come with one.
Article by: Andy Westlake, James Abbott, Michael Topham
Explore our recommended options for the best tripods and camera phone tripods available. For more tips on using tripods, refer to our guide tailored by professional photographers.
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