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Use of a Tripod When Photographing Close to the Ground

Tripods were developed to provide a stable camera platform when film speeds were slow and exposure times were long. Modern digital cameras have fast lenses and shutters, but photographers still use a tripods when viewing a subject at close range. Close-up pictures are much easier to take with an adjustable tripod.

Choosing a Tripod
- Tripods are available that adjust from 18 inches to 5 feet in height. Working close to the ground requires a tripod that can be collapsed to a short height. A fully collapsed 18-inch tripod will allow photos to be taken at about 15 degrees from a full vertical position with all legs of the tripod spread equally.
Controlling Lens-to-Subject Distance
- Tripods with telescoping legs, in multiple sections, allow you a greater degree of flexibility in shooting ground-level pictures. With two legs of the tripod fully collapsed, extend the third telescoping leg to the greatest possible length. Lock each telescoping section of the extended leg in place with the locking device. Anchor the extended leg to the ground.
Anchoring Devices
- In remote sites a rock can serve as an anchor. Make a permanent anchor from heavy wire bent in a U-shape with legs 6 to 10 inches long. The U-bend should just fit the tripod leg. Carry a small hammer to drive the wire anchor into the ground. Many close-up photographers carry a small bag filled with lead fishing weights as an anchor.
Getting Very Close
- The tripod can be used to mount the camera for extreme close-ups of objects on the ground. Secure the camera to the tripod with the mounting screw. Fold all legs of the tripod to a fully collapsed position. Place the tripod horizontally on a stable object, such as a concrete block. The lens-to-subject distance will be changed by the height of the object on which you place the tripod.

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