To use or not to use a tripod, that is my question.

[jlcbshaw]

Okay, the title pretty much sums it up. I am wanting to take a tripod so that I can get a good steady video of the parades and the fireworks this year. Anyone ever taken one? Any problems getting it through security at WDW?

The only concern that I really have is that this tripod isn't the smallest one out there, now it is not a huge professinal one either, but my wife found one of our DD's carrying cases for her Princess lawn chairs and it fits in there fine. I feel that it will be easy to carry and shouldn't pose any problems to other guests. Should I plan on taking it or just try and do without?

 

[Robo]

I'm a video producer in my day-job.

I don't even take a camcorder to WDW every trip, but when I DO, I use a tripod.

My video tapes are MUCH better for it.

I won't go into shooting strategies except to say that I never get in anyone else's "sight-lines" with my shooting. I make sure the camera is only as tall as my own head (even if I seated in a show).

Once you frame a shot, let is sit for awhile and let the action move through it.

I don't use a pro model tripod at WDW. I bought the smallest, cheapest one I could find (under $25) at Wal-Mart.
These "toy tripods" (compared to my substantial PRO models) don't do much but hold the camera still (as long as you don't "wiggle" it) and allow a bit of panning... but they are very light and EASY TO CARRY and that's a big plus at WDW.

The ability to "zoom in" substantially without the typical "bobbing and weaving" of hand-held shots, and arms free of the ache of holding a camcorder in essentially one spot for extended shooting are big bonuses.

And, you'll be amazed at the improvement in the "watch-ability" of your videos.

 

[jlcbshaw]

...... you'll be amazed at the improvement in the "watch-ability" of your videos.

Thanks, this is one of the main reasons that I want to take the tripod. My past videos where good, but at times you could really tell when my arm was tired and I had to shift around.

 

[jig]

What about monopods. They seem more compact and could serve the same purpose?

 

[Laurabearz]

I was just about to post this question myself...

Leaning towards taking one...

 

[Robo]

What about monopods. They seem more compact and could serve the same purpose?

I own and use (on many occasions) a very nice monopod (even has a "tilt-head").
They are good for run-and-gun grabbing of shots (say 10-30 seconds or so in length), but for shows and parades (or extreme telephoto video), a tripod that will allow the camcorder to sit motionless without needing any hands to hold it is a real plus.

Given the choice of hand-held or a monopod, the stick is the winner.
But I want the TRI-pod for the best long-term results.

 

[seashoreCM]

Don't forget, if you are using zoom (or telephoto lenses) blur from camera movement is more pronounced and a tripod is more desirable.

I have found I cannot hold a monopod (single pole) steady enough to make any good use from one.

Image stabilization in video cameras can be mechanical (using gyroscopes) or electronic. Some electronic image stabilization methods reduce the resolution and therefore the sharpness of the picture. Using a tripod you won't have to turn on image stabilization.

Disney hints:
http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/disney.htm

 

[jig]

Is there a tripod available that is small enough to fit into a back pack? Maybe one that has both tripod and monopod capabilities. TIA!

 

[salmoneous]

Sure you should bring it. It'll really help with the pictures. Just don't be one of those tripod guys who believes having a tripod gives them special privileges (i.e. people aren't allowed to stand in front of your tripod to see the parade, even though there is legal standing space there.)

 

[jlcbshaw]

Sure you should bring it. It'll really help with the pictures. Just don't be one of those tripod guys who believes having a tripod gives them special privileges (i.e. people aren't allowed to stand in front of your tripod to see the parade, even though there is legal standing space there.)

Looks like I will be bringing the tripod and if I am standing to watch the parades I will just put it in front of me and keep it at my eye level, or if I am sitting same thing will apply, so hopefully this will not ruin anyone's own enjoyment opf the parades, etc.

 

[ssdeverell]

Is there a tripod available that is small enough to fit into a back pack? Maybe one that has both tripod and monopod capabilities. TIA!

I bought one of the small ones (6 inches tall) to use for my digital camera when shooting WISHES and ILLUMINATIONS. I just sat it on something steady and took the pictures. Made the pictures much better, since my fireworks setting requires a very steady hand. Not sure if it will work on a video camera, though. It was like $8 at Wal-Mart.

 

[Robo]

Is there a tripod available that is small enough to fit into a back pack? Maybe one that has both tripod and monopod capabilities. TIA!

Depends on the back-pack.
Just go to Wal-Mart or Best Buy or... and look for the cheapest smallest Tripod they have (usually under $30) and see if its small enough for you.

FWIW, virtually ALL tripods can be used as a monopod. Just carry an elastic "bunge-cord" and wrap it around to keep the legs together.

 

[jbird327]

I have this device that is a small monopod that hooks into a pocket that hangs around your neck - basically it takes the pressure off of your arm. I use to use this to film (super8) coaster rides. It's tiny and light and works, however I have no idea if they are still available.

 

[momsgoofy]

I bought a small tripod at our local camera shop to use for this trip...so we'll see how well it works. It's about 8 inches tall and the legs are bendable so I can spread them out to make it a bit more stable. I have the hardest time keeping the digital camera steady for those parade and zoomed in shots. I'm hoping this helps!

 

[eeyoreiscool]

We have used a tripod occasionally for some of the concerts and parades. It beats holding the camera for 30-45 minutes. The hardest thing we have to deal with is people bumping the tripod. I am almost sure it has a magnet in it because no matter how I try to protect it, someone will find a way to hit it.