Question: Should you have a tripod with you at a wedding and when should you use it?
Answer: No — Never.
Okay, seriously, it is important to have a tripod handy in your trunk, however, be prepared to loose it one day. I luckily have never lost one, but three of my assistants have left theirs at various churches across Southern California. Many years back, the thing to use was a monopod (these are still very useful in extremely low light situations while using a telephoto lens — don’t forget to turn your IS or VR off when using a tripod.)
When do I need a tripod?
- If you are a serious stickler for the formal group shots to always have the exact same background.
- If you are shooting a still life or architectural shot in low light and want to shoot at ISO 100.
- If you want an overall reception room shot and it is low light and want to shoot at ISO 100.
For items 2 and 3 above, I just find a wall and brace my camera on it. For me this is more convenient than getting the tripod set up for one shot.
What tripod or monopod should I consider purchasing?
- Tripod: I have a Bogen (now Manfrotto) and a SLIK. I Love my SLIK (about $140). It is easy to use, super sturdy, and so much less expensive than a Manfrotto (about $300 without a head).
- Monopod: I usually rent one if I need it, but here is a good one for about $60: Manfrotto 680B
As a wedding shooter I want to capture as many great moments as possible. If my camera is attached to a tripod or even a mono pod I might get limited when I see a shot I need to take. Bottom line, a tripod or monopod will only work for you if you are a calm methodical shooter that doesn’t much mind missing some candids to get a great room shot. I guess I have a bit of ADD when it comes to shooting – constantly on the move.
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Copyright © 2009 by Jen O’Sullivan http://www.jenosullivan.com