Tripods & Supports

Want to prevent unwanted camera movement in your still and motion photography? You’ll need the right camera support system to reduce blur and achieve optimum sharpness. Adorama carries a wide array of camera tripods, monopods, mounts, and related accessories from some of the best brands, including Manfrotto, Benro, 3Pod, and 3 Legged Thing. Whether you’re looking for a sturdy monopod to capture sharper images on the go or need a reliable Manfrotto tripod for seamless video shots, look no further than Adorama.

Stabilize Your Camera With An Adjustable Tripod

Camera tripods are used to stabilize and elevate cameras, flash units, and related photography and videography equipment. These stabilizers are usually equipped with a central pole and three height-adjustable legs. These components are used in conjunction with a mount onto which a head is fixed. Tripods allow photographers to capture clear long exposure shots in adverse lighting conditions. They’re also used by photographers who want to capture the same image multiple times or utilize lenses with extreme focal lengths (such as telephoto lenses).

How To Put A Camera On A Tripod

Placing your camera on a tripod is a simple process. In only a few steps, you’ll have a secure and sturdy camera support.

Find Your Camera’s Tripod Mount

Almost all cameras come with a threaded tripod mount on the bottom of the camera body. This is where you’ll attach the camera tripod or quick release plate. Most tripod mounts are the standard ¼ inch size.

Attach the Camera

If you’re using a quick-release plate, double check it if it has any markings that show which direction the lens should point. Make sure the arrow points in the direction of the lens, and tighten it in place.

If your camera doesn’t have a quick-release plate, carefully screw the camera down onto the tripod. Don’t over tighten.

How To Use A Tripod

Tripods for cameras come in all shapes and sizes, but most of them function in a similar way.

Unfold And Extend The Tripod Legs

Unfold the tripod legs for a secure base, and extend them to an appropriate height for your shot. Make sure the legs are equally extended for the most stability. If your tripod has a built-in level, this helps ensure a uniform height.

Mount Your Camera To The Tripod

Make sure to securely attach the camera to the quick-release plate. Mount the quick-release plate onto the tripod head. Engage the plate lock if your model of tripod has one.

Fine Tune The Position

Now make small adjustments to your tripod head using the knobs and levers on the head. Once you’re happy with the position, tighten all connection points to keep your camera in place.

Are All Tripods Compatible With All Cameras?

As long as your camera has a tripod screw mount built into the body, you can use just about any tripod.

Professional Grade Tripods and Cameras

Some professional-grade cameras feature a larger ? inch screw mount rather than the standard ¼ inch mount. Heavy duty video tripods may also feature the larger ? inch screw size. Fortunately, you can use a thread-size adapter to use a heavy duty tripod with any camera. Many tripods and heads come with that adapter, but you can also purchase them individually.

Cameras Without Tripod Mounts

Some action cameras don’t contain a built-in tripod thread mount. In these cases, your best option is to invest in a camera housing with a tripod mount built into it.

Take Sharper Images On The Go With A Monopod

If you’re looking for a stabilizer that’s easier to set up and transport, consider getting a monopod. The camera monopod is a single staff or pole that allows a still camera to be held more steadily. Similar to a photography tripod, it also allows photographers to take long exposure shots and use lenses with longer focal lengths.

Monopods are easier to set up and carry around, so many wildlife and sports photographers prefer monopods. Plus, they’re great for increasing the stability of telephoto lenses. Travel and outdoor macro photographers also prize the monopod for its ability to provide hassle-free camera support when it matters.

Buy Premium Tripods, Monopods, & Mounts at Adorama

Adorama carries the best photography tripods, tripod legs, video tripods, and related accessories. We also stock a generous selection of mounts and supports, including car mounts and magnetic mounts. Car window mounts allow you to capture seamless shots from your car window, while magnetic mounts allow you to attach your tripod to magnetic surfaces. Looking for reliable monopods and monopod heads? We carry products from some of the most reliable and popular brands, including Ikan, Vanguard, and Gitzo.