We all know that using a tripod will give us sharper photos, but many of us use one sparingly, such as when we shoot after dark. Although they can be cumbersome, there is a good case for using a tripod all of the time – and that’s because you will be free to use nearly any exposure combination!
If you’re hand-holding a camera in low light, you’re restricted to using very high ISO settings, for example, and risk getting more digital noise in your photographs. A tripod will enable you to use lower ISO settings in low light, and you will be able to use a longer exposure time and smaller apertures for greater depth of field, if you choose to. And when you want to photograph subjects like fireworks, city scenes after dark, traffic streaks or silky water effects, you can’t get long enough exposures without a tripod.
(c) Lynne Eodice
Yes, image-stabilizing (or vibration-reduction) lenses have been a big boon for image sharpness. However, you’ll get the best results – and greater exposure choices – by using a tripod on a regular basis.
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Photographer often will buy the sharpest lens they can find and the best camera they can afford because of the sharp images they've seen created from the camera. But, they skimp on the tripod.
I have upgraded to low dispersion glass, partially because as I become older my eyes have grown softer. And, despite using the best lenses, mirror lock and a remote along with my secure tripod, my images are not as sharp as those of others. Hence, I added a ballast, an 8 pound/gallon bottle of water. That did the trick. Now, there is zero vibration and I can focus down to the nth degree.
It takes more time for sharp images, but it's that why we bought expensive lenses and higher grade cameras in the first place?
Posted by: Bunny Snow | January 05, 2012 at 11:09 AM