9 MISTAKES IN WORKING WITH THE STAND WHICH MAY REMOVE YOUR PICTURES AND REDUCE THE RISK TO THE CAMERA
9 errors when using a tripod
First push the small sections of the leg of the tripod.
Tighten handles and leg clamps.
Raise the central column.
Incorrectly or too loosely attach the tripod head to the legs.
Place the tripod legs on an uneven surface incorrectly.
Place the camera in the tripod platform incorrectly.
Installing a camera on a tripod is not safe.
Incorrectly position the legs of the tripod.
Wrong transfer.
Do you make any of the above errors while using a tripod? If the answer is yes, you risk not only the clarity of the photos, which is the primary purpose of using a tripod, but even worse – an expensive camera.
Let’s analyze the errors in order.
First push the small sections of the tripod leg.
If you only need to push the legs of the tripod to only half the maximum height, always take care of the largest sizes (the thickest sections). And then, if you want to raise the point of shooting, open the lower, thinner sections.
By pushing the small sections, you are floating the weakest parts of the tripod. Always work with thicker leg sections from above, so the tripod will be in a much more stable position during shooting.
Not enough to tighten the elements of the tripod
It would seem such a simple mistake, however many photographers continue to use tripods with dangling legs (which eventually sink slowly to the ground) and ball heads slowly leaning under the weight of the camera.
Just make sure everything is tight enough before you mount the camera on a tripod. Carry allen keys or any other necessary tools in your camera bag.
Errors when using a tripod
You may have a larger pivot lock to secure the central column. Check out
The same with the central column – make sure that it is blocked. It should not even sway slightly or move up and down without loosening the adjustment knob or the rotary lock.
Errors when using a tripod
Keep the hex key on hand for quick adjustments. If you have folding legs, each segment can move freely, check them often.
Raise the central column
The central column is the weakest link in the whole structure. Raising it, especially to the maximum height, is like putting a monopod on top of a tripod and hoping that it will remain stationary.
Instead, always pull the legs of the tripod to their maximum length if you need to shoot higher. If this is still not enough in your case, then perhaps it is worthwhile to think about acquiring a tripod with a higher maximum height.
Errors when using a tripod
Incorrect installation of the tripod head
This error is similar to error number 2. Depending on the tripod model, the tripod head can be loosened, so it needs to be tightened from time to time. Before installing the camera, make sure that the head of the tripod is firmly attached to its legs, does not rotate and does not slide when pressed. Most tripod heads are simply screwed onto the legs, so a simple turn will suffice. Others may have a small screw for this.
Errors when using a tripod
Your tripod may have a swivel mechanism or screw tongue like this for tightening the head.
Errors when using a tripod
If the tripod head is loose, there will most likely be a gap.
Place the tripod legs incorrectly on uneven surfaces.
This is the most common mistake sometimes made even by experienced photographers.
What’s the big deal? – you ask. – Can I just adjust the head?
Well … in a word – no! Look at the following example, namely at what level are the cameras installed in both cases.
See how the legs of the tripod are tilted down to the left? In this position, the tripod may fall or roll over along with the precious (or just expensive) camera and lens. The position is easy to correct if you do not pull out all the legs to the same height. Lengthen the legs on the slope, on the rise – shorten.
Buy a tripod with a level on the legs, like here. This will greatly facilitate your life.
The level on the tripod head helps to ensure that the camera and, therefore, the future shot will be even. Level on the legs will help ensure that the tripod itself is in balance
Incorrectly installed tripod inserts in the camera.
Step one is to get a tripod with a quick-release pad or insert. If it is not on it, then the process of installing the camera on a tripod and removing it will be more inconvenient and time consuming.
Removable platform on a tripod. The side handle is tightened to secure it
Step two – set the insert correctly on the camera. Make sure it is firmly attached.
