i want to get a tri pod for my nikon coolpix 2000 but don't know what to look at. I don't really want to spend much as it is only for 'personal use' any ideas?
It's not exactly worth getting a manfrotto 443 with an Arca-Swiss B1 or Wimberly sidekick for a CP2000, not least because they cost more than the camera... I've been experimenting with a tripod with my coolpix 700, and have a few comments: 1) Quick release platforms are NOT helpful, since (on the 700 at least) they block the CF card and battery compartments. You may well spend more time putting the QR on and taking it off than you do using the tripod. 2) The camera is very light indeed, and so the tripod may well resonate (especially if it's one of these cheap alu jobs). Damp the tripod with some extra weight. 3) A ball-head is probably rather more flexible and easier to use than a pan-tilt head, unless you wish to stitch panoramics (which may not be too easy anyway) 4) Think small. A tripod set up for 2-6ft height may well not be particularly helpful. 5) Think alternatives. There are mini-tripods, mono-pods, table clamps, car door clamps, etc. Depending on what you're doing, any of these may be more suitable. 6) Think ghetto. Do you need a tripod? Or can you more easily and cheaply do what you want by putting the camera onto a box or a chair? Use self-timer or remote release, and you can achieve good results. Best way to do things is to go into a shop and try various tripods with YOUR camera. Try it with any other equipment you may put on it.
I have been thinking of this recently as well. I plan to go cheapo as possible.. I have the Canon A40 and just want something to park the thing for scenic pics as well as a place to sit at parties (lots of kids partys were everyone is in the same place most of the time). I'm just going to get a light/cheap/portable one along the lines of thinking that Isaac went over. Note: In college, I hade a real nice one and in the 50 subsequent moves since then it has disappeared... crap!
http://www.7dayshop.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=&products_id=9131 might get that one as its only £14.99 it will be used for taking pictures for articles and other related things. As i have found that when i turn the flash off its really hard to get a good image.
I'm presently working on an article about photographic faults and techniques to avoid such faults. Might be interesting reading.
