I’ve done quite a bit of posting lately. Now it’s your turn. How do you keep your camera steady when you don’t have a tripod handy? To get the ball rolling, I’ll share what I use for those times when I don’t have three carbon fiber legs handy….the lowly beanbag.
Yep, I dragooned one of my kid’s toys years ago and converted it into a quick and easy camera-steadying device. I just line up my shot, find a suitable, stationary spot and plop down the bag, then the camera. After checking the viewfinder to finetune my composition and make sure none of the beanbag is in the shot, I get to work. My beanbag measures about 6 inches in diameter, by the way, so it’s easily stowed in my “go” bag.
Okay, I shared, what works for you?
I prefer a monopod, easy to carry and does not get in the way of others in crowded places. Makes a huge difference to the sharpness of images when using longer lenses over 100mm.
Monopods are great! They’re very handy as a walking stick, too. I agree that the difference between using a monopod and handholding is very noticeable. Excellent advice. Thanks for the comment!
Another very valuable tip. Often have used a bean bag device when target shooting outside with pistols and rifles…I can see how it would work with a camera, as well. The kids are grown ups, so I guess I will have to buy a bean bag toy at Target.
My experience with monopod is that it makes a better walking stick than a steadying device – but, I do need more practice with it.
I’ve also seen folks use a monopod as a makeshift steadicam when shooting with video camcorders. You extend the pod but don’t let it touch the ground. The monopod dangling down from the camera’s tripod mount steadies its motion in one axis, smoothing the movements that occur during shooting.
May I suggest the Beanpod from England? £9.99, shipping worldwide!
http://www.Beanpods.co.uk