How to use a tripod for photography? Using a tripod correctly can greatly enhance the quality of your photography and videography. It encourages careful composition and provides the stability required for sharp, stunning images. Choose a tripod that suits your camera, and you'll be ready to capture impressive shots and footage. In this article, we will offer a step-by-step guide for setting up the tripod for photography.
Step 1: Decide how tall your photography tripod should be
Start by estimating the height your tripod should be to capture your shot. It doesn’t need to be exact—an approximate guess is fine to begin with. A common guideline is: Tripod height = your eye level – the height of the viewfinder – the height of the tripod head.
If you want to know more about the tripod height, check the article How tall should be your tripod.
Step 2: Choose your shooting spot
Before using a tripod for photography, determine the exact location where you plan to take the photo. Make sure the background complements your shot, and decide which direction you want to face when capturing the image.
Step 3: Position the tripod legs
Align one leg in the same direction as your camera lens. This setup creates space between the remaining two legs for you to stand comfortably while adjusting focus and taking the shot.
Step 4: Extend and stabilize the legs
Unlock the leg latches and extend each section. Start with the thickest ones for better stability. On uneven terrain, adjust each leg as needed to level the tripod. For soft surfaces like sand or soil, press the legs down firmly until they reach solid ground. You can also improve stability by hanging your camera bag from the center column to add weight.
Step 5: Ensure the tripod is level
Many tripods include a built-in level on the top for easy adjustment. For example, the Moman CA70 carbon fiber travel tripod features dual bubble levels. They are mainly used to verify that the camera head is properly leveled, which is especially important for landscape, architectural, and panoramic photography. They offer a visual reference to ensure the camera is aligned horizontally and vertically.
If yours doesn’t, simply step back and visually confirm that the center column is standing straight and perpendicular to the ground.
Step 6: Mount your camera onto the tripod
How to use a tripod for photography? An important step is to secure the camera to it. This step includes a few key actions.
Detach the base plate from the tripod. Many tripods feature a plate that screws onto the camera's base and securely locks into position on the tripod. This setup allows for easy attachment and removal of the camera during shooting. Use the quick-release latch to detach the plate from the tripod.
Secure the base plate to your camera. Insert the plate’s screw into the threaded hole on the camera’s underside, tightening it clockwise. You can do this in advance to streamline your setup process in the field.
Mount the camera on the tripod. Position the camera so the base plate fits into the tripod mount. Some tripods lock automatically, so listen for a click or feel for a secure fit.
Lock the release latch into position. If the tripod features a release bar, make sure it is properly secured. Double-check that the camera is firmly attached before releasing it. Even if it seems stable, gently wiggle the camera to ensure it won’t fall.
Adjust the camera angle. You may need to loosen a knob near the base plate to tilt or rotate the camera to your desired position. Once aligned, tighten the knob to hold it steady.
In some situations, additional gear like an L-bracket for switching between portrait and landscape modes or a tripod collar for heavy lenses may be helpful.
Step 7: Avoid extending the center column after mounting your camera
If you wonder how to use a tripod to take pictures properly, an important point is to avoid extending the center column. If you need to raise the height of your tripod after the camera is already attached, follow these steps instead:
Kneel down and adjust one leg at a time. Carefully loosen a leg, extend it to the estimated height, then lock it in place. Repeat this for the other two legs, keeping the extensions as even as possible. Always keep one hand on the tripod during this process for stability.
The three legs of the tripod offer significantly improved stability. Relying on the center post will decrease the stability. Reserve the center post for emergencies or small adjustments when you need just an extra inch or two in height.
Caring tips for using a tripod for photography
Follow these tips to maintain your photography tripod for long-lasting use.
- Keep about an inch of the smallest leg section extended, even during storage. This helps any dirt or moisture on the feet and lower legs dry and fall off naturally.
- To clean your tripod, use a damp cloth with just water—avoid soap or other cleaning agents. For hard-to-reach areas like leg joints, use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to remove sand and debris.
- When in the field, always set the tripod upright with all three legs fully extended. Placing it on its side can lead to unnecessary wear or damage, particularly to the leg joints and tripod head.
- For storage, stand the tripod upright if you can, or lay it flat in a padded case in a dry environment. This helps it dry out completely and stay protected from accidental bumps or falls.
