With the increasing capabilities and decreasing size of camcorders, millions have become home videographers. Of course, anyone would prefer to get "oohs" and "aahs" from their audience when sharing their video creations. To the surprise of many, one way to produce better films doesn't even involve the camcorder or highly skilled filming techniques. One of the most important things that can be done to improve the quality of a movie shot with a camcorder is to use a tripod.

Certainly handheld shots are appropriate in some instances but a steady shot always produces a more "professional" looking result. The price range on camcorder tripods varies widely, from $15 to over $1,000 for the more professional type so there is usually one to match any budget.

Here are some hints as to features to consider when purchasing a camcorder tripod.

Sturdiness

Obviously, if the function of the tripod is to steady the camcorder a sturdy base is necessary. Dual-stanchion legs provide good stability. These tripods have two poles on each leg. Tripods put together with nuts and bolts tend to tolerate wear and tear better than riveted ones. The true test of a tripod is to set it up and apply firm downward pressure to assure there is no flexing, bending, or collapsing.

Ease of Set Up

If faster set up is critical, look for lever locks versus twist locks on the legs.

Leveling

Tripods not only keep the camcorder steady, but can also help keep a shot level. Having a bubble level on the tripod gives the user another tool for getting the best images. It is also advisable to get a tripod that allows height/length adjustment of each of the legs independently. This can assure a level set up even when shooting on uneven ground. If a lot of outdoor filming is planned, tripods with a spike should be considered to help stabilize better in these situations.

Weight

Because using a tripod is critical to a great looking movie, buyers want to be sure that they won't mind carrying it anywhere. However, stability and strength should not be sacrifice for portability. For a really lightweight but strong tripod, look for the ones made of titanium, carbon fiber, or a similar lightweight material.

Smooth Movement

Not only can a camcorder tripod provide a steady stationary shot but it can also provide a solid base that allows for flawless panning when following action. Ball heads on the tripod can provide the smoothest motion while panning. Buyers should always use the head on a tripod before making a purchase to assure it has smooth, jerk-free movement.

Balancing

For more advanced film makers, a tripod with adjustable counterweights can help balance the camcorder as various lenses which can change the weight distribution are attached to the camera.

When selecting a camcorder tripod, consumers will need to determine what type of filming they will be doing and then identify the features that will be most important for those situations. If, for instance, the buyer will often film family football games but will never use a telephoto or other lens, a camera with a fluid head is much more important than one with counterweights. As with any purchase, thinking ahead can help buyers avoid paying for features they won't use.


The author provides consumers with simple buying guides and informative articles to assist them in shopping for products such as a camcorder, related accessories, or a digital camera. Visit her online home electronics store, homemedias.info for more information and shopping.