Taking Pictures With a Mini-Tripod

I finally picked up a mini-tripod for my digital camera. Why is this important? Well, if you look at the images I’ve taken at past model shows, you’ll see that most of the images are blurry. I also take 3 or 4 times the number of images you actually see on the website, but most of those are blurry as well.

Why is that? Do I have a bad digital camera? Am I a bad photographer? The first is a “no”, while the second is up for debate.

Basically when taking digital images of models (close-up or not), you do not want to use a flash. A flash will usually wash out details and add unslightly glare to shiney parts of your kit. Most digital cameras have the option to turn this off. Usually though, whenever you turn off the flash, your camera will respond by blurring photos at the slightest movement.

Normally I hold VERY still and take several shots hoping for the best. This wastes time and energy and half the time the images are still blurry.

So what’s the solution?

A mini or tabletop tripod! Basically, you attach your camera to the tripod by screwing it to the bottom. Most cameras have a tripod screw in the bottom. Then you turn off the flash and set the timer. Line up and focus your shot and click the trigger. Leave go of the camera and after the counter clicks down, the camera takes the shot. You’ll get a crisp clean shot since you did not hold and move the camera. The small tripod is great to sit in front of your kits or kits at shows where the table space is very limited.

I purchased the “Quantraray E-Z Stand Mini-Tripod” for $9.95 + tax at a Ritz Camera Store, but most camera stores should carry them (or similar items).

Folded-up, the tripod is only about 1″ round by ” long. It extends to 4″-8″ tall. Perfect for taking to shows. It also has a ball-joint hinge on the mount for a variety of camera angles. The joints and legs are very stiff and will hold a pose well. The whole piece feels very sturdy and has a nice weight to it.