The use of a tripod is perhaps the item that is most firmly linked with landscape photography, and there is a solid reason for this association. Having said that, there are photographers that insist on utilizing them for each and every image they take, regardless of the conditions. Is it really possible for it to be a barrier? This excellent video examines the usage of tripods in landscape photography as well as the reasons why it is sometimes preferable to merely hold the camera instead of using a tripod.
This informative video was brought to your attention by James Popsys. In it, he covers the usage of tripods in landscape photography as well as the reasons why it is sometimes preferable to shoot without them. In most aspects, I am of the same opinion as Popsys. This is not to imply that tripods are not valuable tools; on the contrary, they have a wide range of applications and are required for a large number of various types of photographs.
But if you are taking pictures where there is plenty of natural light and you aren’t doing something particularly unique like long exposure, do you really need an external flash? And if you don’t, would it be better for you to not have to worry about the logistical load of dragging it about, moving it, and readjusting it for each new image? If you keep your hands on the camera at all times, you’ll be able to capture more pictures, and they could even turn out better. You can get the entire scoop from Popsys by watching the video that’s been embedded above.
