Tripod Problems

[pgowder]

I'm looking back over some video I shot at an event. And there are several times that as I moved the camera to one side or the other it jerks. I know that happened when the tripod "caught" or was too loose and I zipped across the area. It also happens when I move vertically.

Beside a steadier hand, what can I do for this? Do I need a different tripod?

Thanks

[Skyman]

a tripod with a good "fluid head" will help. it is also good to get a heavier than you need base (legs) as the weight of the tripod will help to prevent any movement whilst panning. velbon miller and manfrotto are stand out brands.

[pgowder]

What is a fluid head?

[MJS]

Still tripods typically have moving parts that slide against each others' main structural elements, metal, plastic or some type of carbon fibre. These work fine because they are moved into position and then locked while the picture is taken. There is a certain degree of friction between these moving parts and any camera movement can be jerky or not smooth. Video is used to take moving pictures of moving subjects, dictating smooth camera movements. A fluid tripod has these moving parts wrapped in an oil bath to help make the resistence of the sliding or bearing surfaces more consistant thus making for a smoother and more consistant pan or tilt during the shot.

Hope the answer isn't too geeky.

[pgowder]

Thanks for the info!