Tripod Question?

Question

are all tripods compatible with all dslr's ?

Answer 1

Yes they are, unless you get one of those small tabletop tripods that are meant for P&S cameras. They'll just tip over with the weight of the lens.

Answer 2

George has given you excellent advice except for one thing:

Make sure your tripod "fits" you. If you're 5'6 and your tripod only extends to 5'0 you may find yourself bending down a lot. I know someone will say "Well just raise the center column." This is a NO-NO if raised more than an inch or two. Why? Because it adds instability. With a DSLR and a long zoom with the center column fully extended the slightest touch will cause camera movement. Even a slight breeze will cause movement. Its better to get a tripod that extends taller than you - then you can keep the legs less than fully extended which improves stability.

Answer 3

Yes. Now to the recommendations.

Look for a good quick-release camera plate system. This will let you mount or dismount the camera from the tripod with just a flip of a locking lever and is much quicker than using a thumbscrew on the bottom.

Flip-lock levers are much faster and less likely to slip than twist-collar locks on the legs. While others are adjusting their tripods, you'll be taking your pictures!

Look for a tripod with center braces between the legs. Stability is your friend.

A locking tilt-head is great, as it allows you to tilt the camera sideways for 'portrait' shots or back for 'landscape' mode.
Retractable rubber feet that reveal spikes will give you good footing on hard surfaces (concrete, wooden floors) as well as soft ones (grass, dirt)

Find a tripod that's not too small, there's nothing sadder than the sight of a camera toppling over in the wind! A tripod that's too large will get left at home.

See if you like how the knobs and controls lock and unlock the different settings. They should be easy to figure out and become second-nature to you in use.

Consider a handle, straps, or case (I use all three) so your tripod is easier to carry around.

AND consider a monopod for rapid access and convenience.

I hope you find this helpful.

Answer 4

Yes, but the tripod heads might not be. There are 2 different size thread types used. One is the 1/4 the other 3/8. Adapters are available.

Answer 5

also a bean bag works for those situation you dont/cant carry a tripod. low points of view..or watever.

Answer 6

They will work with your Video, 35mm, medium format or large format, though some of the High-end/Professional models are more specific for the type of use.