While today's cameras are amazing devices with built-in stabilization, fast sensors, and intelligent software, there are many situations in which these advanced technologies fall short to producing sharp images. Most of the time, they will; however, sometimes you'll find that they aren't enough to solve a specific photographic challenge. And each time I hear someone declare, "I don't need a tripod anymore," I envision a perfect tool being discarded before it has fulfilled its purpose. My experience has shown me that image stabilization is an aid, not a solution to all photographic challenges.

While I've owned a Zone VI tripod for several decades now, I also have several different heads for it based upon the type of photography I'm doing — a simple ballhead for still photography since it locks very quickly in any direction, a heavier-duty head for precise photography, and a video head for smooth panning and tilting. There are some instances in which no amount of anti-shake technology will allow you to capture a sharp image. Those are the instances in which the tripod will pay off.

Long Exposure Photography Will Always Break the Rules

Stabilization works against small movements; it cannot stop the passage of time. In those cases in which you extend your shutter speed beyond the realm of hand-held (which includes nightscapes, light-trails, smooth water, and clouds), then physics will take over.

• In those cases, it is impossible to create a still photo using a handheld shutter speed of three seconds, regardless of whether the camera is stabilized or not.
  
  
• In that case, the tripod will lock your camera in place, allowing the light to accumulate without smearing your subject.
  
  
• If you prefer to travel lightly, a full-sized studio tripod is not the only option available.
  
  
• Travel tripods have evolved significantly, becoming smaller, lighter, and faster to set up, while still providing the necessary stability when needed.

Low-Light Doesn't Only Mean Shake

Modern digital cameras boast great high ISO capabilities. High ISO is excellent -- but there is a catch. You raise your ISO to compensate for low light, but this creates a new problem. When light levels decrease, and you refuse to use a tripod, you will likely pay for the lack of light by increasing your ISO setting.

When you increase your ISO, you will start to notice noise appearing. Colors become flat, and shadow detail disappears. The image may be sharp, but it will look dull and fragile. Using a tripod allows you to maintain a lower ISO and retain both quality and color. You will give up some time for a more vibrant image and better-quality files. That is a worthwhile trade-off.

Precision Is More Important Than Stability

There are many situations in which stability isn't the primary concern -- precision is. Photography that involves landscape compositions, architecture, product photography, and fine-art photography all benefit from careful and precise framing.

Slight movements can make significant differences. A millimeter to the left or right can be used to adjust a slanted horizon line or align a vertical edge line. A tripod will allow you to take your time to change your composition to meet your needs rather than trying to chase the perfect shot.

Advanced Techniques Need Consistent Repetition

All advanced techniques rely on consistent repetition. Focus stacking, exposure bracketing, HDR blending, and panoramic stitching all rely on the camera staying in the same position.

• No matter how good the stabilization system is, it will always cause slight variations between frames.
  
  
• This limits the software's ability to clean up the issues.
  
  
• A tripod ensures that each frame is taken from the same position.
  
  
• This increases the predictability of post-processing.

Video Is Not Forgiving

Image stabilization will help with video -- it will not replace the need for support. Handheld video may seem stable initially, but after viewing it for an extended period, you will notice subtle camera shaking. You may not be able to identify the reason, but your eyes will catch it.

A tripod produces calm video. Interviews will appear stable. Static shots will look intentional. Even stabilized cameras will significantly benefit from a solid base.

Conditions Can Be Unpredictable

Stabilization systems are designed under ideal conditions. The weather will blow you off course. Wind will make your hands cold and stiff. Fatigue will creep up on you after hours of shooting. None of these will show up in the specifications of your equipment.

A tripod will not tire of you. It will not shake due to a cold wind. It will not wobble because you didn't eat lunch.

Features Worth Considering in a Tripod

Not all tripods are created equal. A few key features will determine whether a tripod finds its way into your bag or sits idle in your closet.

• Stability versus Height: The importance of stability versus height will vary from photographer to photographer. A slightly shorter, yet highly stable, tripod will outperform a taller, thinner one every time.
  
  
• Leg Locks: Leg locks you can trust are essential. Whether you prefer flip locks or twist locks, they must engage quickly and securely.
  
  
• Weight: The weight of the tripod that fits your shooting style is also essential. Heavier tripods will dampen vibrations. Smaller, lighter tripods will provide greater mobility. The right choice depends on where and how you shoot.
  
  
• Interchangeable Heads: Interchangeable or compatible heads provide additional versatility. Having the option to switch between a ball head and a geared or video head will increase the lifespan of a good pair of legs.
  
  
• Monopod Conversion: Having a monopod conversion capability is a valuable bonus feature. Many modern tripods offer the option of removing one leg and attaching it to the center column or head to create a monopod. Others utilize the center column as a monopod. Leg removal methods tend to offer better stability and height, whereas center column versions sacrifice stability for speed and compactness.
  
  
• Center Column Restraint: Center column restraint provides additional stability. Tripods that remain stable without extending the center column tend to perform better in the field.
  
  
• Build Quality: Good build quality is more important than the manufacturer's name. Strong joints, solid legs, and smooth adjustments contribute to success when faced with strong winds or fading light.
  
  
• Interchangeable Feet: Exchanging feet on your tripod may seem insignificant, but it is an important feature. Rubber feet provide traction on slippery or indoor surfaces. Spiked feet dig into dirt, grass, snow, or ice. Some tripods allow you to retract spiked feet when changing surfaces. Good feet will prevent your tripod from sliding when the surface resists.

Three Levels of Tripod Prices

Tripods can range from inexpensive to expensive, with substantial price differences. The following describes what you can generally expect as you go up the price ladder.

Entry-Level ($50 — $149): These tripods are primarily designed to provide basic support. Typically, entry-level tripods consist of aluminum legs, a low load rating, and simple leg locks. They offer support for your lightweight camera and can be helpful for casual photography and learning when a tripod is beneficial. The degree of vibration control and durability is generally moderate, and the heads are usually combined as part of the tripod.

Mid-Range ($150 — $349): The mid-range segment is where many photographers will find themselves. Mid-range tripods will include improved materials, such as carbon fiber, more robust leg locks, higher load ratings, and detachable heads. In addition, mid-range tripods are more portable, yet provide sufficient stability to ensure you're not constantly compromising.

High-End ($350 and above): At the high end of the market, you're paying for precision and reliability. Expect high-rigidity components, smooth adjustments, increased load ratings, and design elements that minimize vibration caused by wind or prolonged exposure to harsh conditions, such as those found in photography and other demanding applications. Additionally, high-end tripods will include serviceable and modular components.

Bottom Line

A tripod is not about nostalgia -- it is about control. While modern cameras have reduced the need for a tripod, they have not eliminated it. When light is low, precision is required, or when advanced techniques are employed, the tripod quietly becomes the most intelligent device in your camera bag. Keep your tripod handy. You may not need it for every shot, but when you do, little else will do the job.