I get asked this question all the time: “What is your favourite piece of gear?”
It’s a tough question, because I like all of the gear I use because if I didn’t really like it, then why would I use it?
But sometimes, there is something that stands out. Maybe it stands out because it’s an elegant solution to a problem, or an inexpensive solution to a problem…or both.
In this case, it’s both. Watch the video to find out more!
This is awesome! Thanks, I had no idea you could do use a small tripod in these ways.
Thanks Tom. It really is an incredibly useful thing. And best of all, it’s lightweight, which is a big thing for me. Enjoy!
Hi Mike. Thank you for this, I love it!!!
Great to hear it! Thanks for the comment. It opens up a lot of possibilities…
Hi Mike, great advice. I always have my monopod with me cos I hate lugging around the tripod, I used to use the gorillapod, but this seems so much better, definately going to get myself a nice compact and lightweight tripod and try that support on the column trick. Thanks again for the great advice.
Hi Joao. Thanks for the comment. I have a few Gorillapods but I’ve never been happy with them. I find they pretty much never hold the camera on what I want, and they’re just not sturdy enough in general. Also, they won’t work for that column trick. Glad you found the post useful!
Using a mini tripod as a brace is something I’d didn’t think of and is brilliant. Like Alton Brown is against a tool being useful for only one task you’ve just done the same [with this mini tripod]. Great advice.
Also I really liked your thoughts on the RX100 et al in petapixel (http://petapixel.com/2014/09/08/pro-camera-really-need-shoot-like-pro/). Anyone thinking about buying their first DLSR needs to read it. I love my RX300 with its 24mm f/1.4 lens but my Olympus ZX-2 fits in my pocket and goes everywhere with me. Cameras like the RX100 v3 are “wolves in sheep’s clothing” and serous gear. Sadly too many people only look at the length of the lens and nothing else. Yeah, there’s a joke in there somewhere.
Hi Brian, thanks for leaving such a great comment. I’m glad you liked the tripod trick. I love that thing and use it all the time.
As for light cameras, I feel like an evangelist sometimes because I can’t shut up about it. But a light and fast system is SO much better in a variety of ways. You enjoy yourself more, and you open yourself up to more opportunities. But I guess you’ve already discovered that for yourself!
One of my favourite photographers working today is Ben Lowy, and a lot of the time all he uses is an iphone. Check out his work, absolutely first rate. http://www.benjaminlowy.com
Thanks again for stopping by.
Hi Mike,
Currently travelling Cambodia, Siem Reap,Laos Luang Prabang, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hue, Da Nang, Hoi Lan, Ho Chi Minh then home to Dingapore Friday afternoon 12 June.
Sounds like an amazing trip! Where can we see the photos?
Hi Mike, thanks a lot for this very useful tip. Can you tell us what brand is this tripod, and where can I buy it?
Hi Tom. You’re very welcome. It’s the Leica Table Top tripod. There’s only one model, so you can’t miss it. I use a generic small ballhead with it, not the Leica version, which is too long for my liking. You should be able to find it easily at the big online camera stores such as Adorama or B+H.
Thanks Mike. I’ve bought a “CowboyStudio Pro Camera Tripod Ball Head Quick Release Plate With Gradienter BK-03” ballhead, but it seems too big for the trip, plus it does not fit the attachment. Is there a better choice?
There are lots of other choices. I’d take a look at what Giotto has to offer, for one. If you live near a good camera store, it might be worthwhile checking out what they have in person. There are also, of course, many expensive mini ballheads to choose from, but I don’t think you need to spend a lot of money on this. Good luck!