Camera Tripod

Your photo will likely show the blurry effects of camera shake when you hand-hold a camera while shooting at a slow shutter speeed – or using a telescopic or upclose lens. A tripod eliminates camera shake in those situations.

There are three basic tripod variations:

Traditional tripod

Monopod

Pocketpod

These are full-length tripods (when their legs are extended). Your camera will be high enough to allow you to stand when using the camera's built-in LCD screen (or viewfinder).

Traditional tripods are essential to most professional photographers. However, they could be a headache to the typical traveler because of their weight, bulk and awkward storage shape.

They can be time-consuming to set up and, afterwards, to take down.

There are some light, collapsible traditional tripods for travelers. Be certain that the one you bring is stable. Many lightweight models are not. A strong wind could knock the tripod over, along with your expensive camera mounted on the tripod's head.

Remember, the heavier your camera and lens, the more top heavy your set up will be.

Monopods

This "tripod" sibling has only one leg, which reduces weight and storage space. In reality, a monopod needs two extra legs (yours) for stability.

A full-length monopod may make more sense than a traditional tripod for the average amateur travel photographer, though keeping its head motionless requires a little practice.

Quantaray QSX-VersiPod Tripod for Cellphones and Mini Electronics

If you need a tripod for your camera phones, compact cameras, compact camcorders or even pen camera, this is a unique option. This versatile mini tripod can hold a variety of unique mini digital cameras that other tripods cannot. This mini tripod extends to 10 inches.

For most travelers, this is the best choice. A pocketpod (also called "minipod" and "tabletop tripod") is quite short, so it needs to be set on an elevated surface such as a tabletop.

You can also press the pocketpod's feet against a vertical surface (such as a wall) while you firmly handhold the camera.

A pocketpod's well-designed collapsibility makes it easy to store inside camera bags.

Another benefit is it is ideal for macro (very upclose) photography