Outdoor Photographer Magazine
Finding The Right Accessory
BUYER’S GUIDE

Finding The Right Digital Camera Accessories



Several manufacturers, like Gitzo and Manfrotto, make carbon-fiber tripods that are perfect for travel, but cost more. If weight is an issue, then the benefits outweigh the cost. While aluminum tripods are heavier, they tend to cost less, so you may be able to save a bit of money if you don’t require the lighter load.

If you want to shoot low to the ground, you’ll want a tripod with legs that splay or a specialized tripod like the Kirk Low Pod. Compact and sturdy, the Low Pod allows you to shoot low or on a tabletop.

Most tripods don’t come with a head, so you’ll have to purchase it separately. This can add to the expense, but it also will give you a chance to choose what kind of head works best for you.

Pan-and-tilt heads are less expensive than ballheads, but ballheads afford you quick and smooth angling of your camera into any position. Some ballheads, such as the Slik AF-1100 Trigger-Action Digital Ball Head, have a trigger grip that allows you to change positions by simply squeezing and releasing a handle.

Consider purchasing a head that features a quick-release plate. These are efficient, as they let you take your camera on and off the tripod quickly, and can be another asset when you’re moving about and lining up different shots.

You may want to look into easy-to-use panorama heads and clamps. A cost-effective model made by Nodal Ninja will replace the head on your tripod, while Really Right Stuff’s Panning Clamp is a quick-release that replaces the clamp on your ballhead, allowing you to easily take your camera on and off your tripod.

LCD Hoods
If you’re shooting outside, it’s usually difficult to see your images on your LCD screen. Instead of moving to a shaded area, utilize an LCD hood. This useful tool blocks out the light, allowing you to see your images more clearly. Additionally, these hoods are inexpensive. Just make sure you purchase the right size for your screen.


 « Previous Page  |  1  |  2  |  3

MORE GEAR


Cameras
Reviews, roundups and articles on the new and best cameras from top manufacturers
First Look: Pentax K20D

First Look: Sigma DP1

First Look: Nikon D60

Digital Darkroom
Digital darkroom gear, from software to inkjet printers, and how to use them
Your Next Digital Darkroom

HP Photosmart Pro B9180

Today's Technology in Inkjet Printing


More
More great gear for outdoor photographers
Traveling Into The Backcountry

Gadget Bag: Pathfinders

Holiday Book Guide

Lenses
Reviews, roundups and articles on the new and best lenses from top manufacturers
Fast Lenses

The Must-Have Wide-Angle Zoom

Choosing Your Tele-Zoom

Accessories
Camera and photography accessories that will help make your photography better
Tripod Dexterity

Gadget Bag: Photo Backpacks

Gadget Bag: Memory Today

Buyer's Guide
A guide to help you choose the best solutions and equipment for your photography needs
Choosing A Digital SLR

Choosing An Interchangeable Lens

Choosing Inkjet Papers

 






Subscribe now and take advantage of our special internet offer: 1 year (11 issues) for just $17.97! You save 77%!

To receive Outdoor Photographer, just fill in the form and click Subscribe!

Name:
Address:
Address 2:
City:
State:
Zip Code:
E-Mail Address:
Canadian/Foreign residents, click here.


Check out our other photo sites:
pcphoto digital photo pro

Home | Current Issue | Archive | Sitemap | About Us | Contact Us | Submissions | Subscribe | Privacy Policy

Outdoor Photographer Magazine is published by Werner Publishing Corporation
12121 Wilshire Boulevard, 12th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Copyright© 2008 Werner Publishing Corp.