This week I want to look at video camera tripods. At first this might seem a bit of a strange topic, however there are many speakers who use video cameras either to record their own material for promotional use, or to record clients during training sessions.
One of the hallmarks of a good video is a steady camera and for that you need a decent tripod. For a good result from video work you ought to have a tripod that has some degree of "fluid head" capability. It is true to say that one can spend as much on a tripod as on a video camera - however, a decent tripod will probably last longer than your camera, so you ought to get the best you can afford.
What should your considerations be:
The weight and size of your video camera - the bigger and heavier your camera, the bigger and heavier your tripod will have to be.
Will you be using the tripod (mainly) in a studio? If so, portability isn't that big an issue.
Weight and folded size of the tripod? What sort of carry bag does it come with?
A spirit level is really useful for producing a steady tracking shot.
Fluid head capability produces clean, gliding camera movement - vital for promotional material and really useful for training videos too - it adds a certain polish to your work - not only are you a good trainer, but you make decent videos too!
Hope you find it useful.
If you have ideas for material you'd like us to cover in the Journal, then please let me know.
Effective Networking
