How to set up your tripod for sharp shooting

A tripod will help you get sharper shots, but just mounting your camera on a tripod may not eliminate all movement; you need to make sure it is as stable as it can be. Extend the top leg sections first, as these are sturdier, and avoid using the centre column if possible.

1 ADD SOME WEIGHT

On windy days, hang your kit bag from the centre column to weigh down the tripod.

2 PUTTING A SPIKE IN IT

The best way of making sure your tripod is stable is to ground it, by using the spikes on its legs, if fitted. If not, use the kit bag method (above).

3 GET CLOSER TO THE GROUND

Some tripods offer a working height as low as 10cm, thanks to catches at the top of each leg. This will make the tripod even more stable to use.

4 NOW THAT’S A WRAP

Sometimes there’s no need for a tripod at all; instead you can use a wrap-around camera support like the GorillaPod from Joby.