Buy tripod - the best tips

We give you tips on how to buy a suitable tripod. You need a photo tripod especially when the lighting conditions become difficult, such as indoors or in bad weather. We'll show you what to look out for when buying a tripod.

Photo tripod: mobility

So that you can use the tripod correctly, you should find out how mobile it is and how many settings on the photo tripod are possible before buying. We show you which functions are particularly important.

• Check whether the handle on the tripod allows sufficient movement and can then also be locked in the desired position.
• Make sure the tripod has a quick release plate. Here you can attach the camera more easily and change the camera more easily.
• Also keep an eye on the working height of the tripod. For example, check whether individual elements can be unscrewed or extended. Make sure that the tripod is suitable for your work. Otherwise, it can easily happen that you stand in front of the camera in a bent position, for example, and taking pictures becomes very tedious over time.

Photo tripod: stability

Next, you should make sure that the tripod is steady and therefore does not give you blurred pictures. You should always think of your area of ​​application.

• If the tripod should be set up quickly, photo tripods with a snap lock are worthwhile. To do this, pull out the legs to the desired length and then fold down the latch so that the legs remain fixed at the height you want. In addition, you can also use tripods with screw caps and screw the legs individually.
• If you have a special area of ​​application, metal mandrels are also suitable. These are attached to the lower end of the legs and then ensure a secure hold outdoors. But also pay attention to existing rubber feet, because they protect your floor indoors.
• Also use the three-way pan if you plan to take a lot of landscape or architectural shots, or the ball head if you want to shoot portraits, for example.

Photo tripod: weight

There are tripods of different weights that can be used individually. We'll show you what the advantages and disadvantages of each tripod are.

• Light tripods: As you probably suspect, light tripods are particularly vulnerable. If there is a wind, they like to go with them and therefore do not have particularly outstanding stability. However, lightweight tripods are highly recommended for travel. They can be taken along quickly and easily.
• Heavy tripods: In contrast to the light tripods, heavy tripods are particularly stable and often achieve good results even in wind and weather, since vibrations can be dampened. In addition, the working height is usually sufficient. The only catch: The tripod is bulky due to the weight.

Photo tripod - conclusion: what do you need the tripod for?

You should always consider all the tips given in relation to your project. Before you buy, make sure you ask what you want to achieve with the tripod, where you take photos frequently and what your main purpose is. Then decide which tripod is suitable. In this way, you can quickly see which functions may be superfluous for you and your project and which are particularly important and therefore essential.

Tip: Take a look at our photo tripod test 2014 and find out which models did well and which did poorly.