Camera shake is the enemy of sharp pictures! Even when you are on a tripod camera shake can occur relatively easily and especially if you are using a long telephoto lens, slow shutter speeds or if you are not using a remote cable release.
So how can you prevent camera shake when on a tripod? There are a few simple precautions you can take. Here are a few ideas:
1. Don’t Use the Center Column
Do not use the center column on your tripod unless circumstances really require it. When the center column is extended it causes instability – quite the opposite from what you would expect from using a tripod.
2. Use a Remote Cable Release
Always use a remote cable release (also known as a cable release, remote trigger, remote cable shutter release). There is little point in using a tripod if you are pressing down on the camera body itself to make the picture.
3. Use Your Camera’s Self-Timer
If you do not have a remote cable release (or you forgot it at home) then use your camera’s self-timer as this is a more gentle method of triggering the shutter.
4. Mirror Lock-Up
Use your camera’s mirror lock up function if it has one, and then trigger the shutter with a remote cable release.
5. Mount Your Telephoto Lens Directly On Tripod
If you’re shooting with a telephoto lens always be sure to mount your lens directly to the tripod, not the camera. This creates a better balance of the weight across the tripod (use a remote cable release when possible).
If you own a SLR camera (film or digital) and do not already own a remote cable release I would highly recommend that you consider buying one.
Usually you can find the details of the remote cable release that fits your camera in your camera’s instruction manual. Places like Amazon.com usually provide a good selection of remote cable releases in different brands and types (wired and wireless) or you can visit your local camera store and inquire with them.
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Mon, Jun 29, 2009
Tips