165Tripods and other support systemsTripods, monopods, “gorilla pods”, bean bags and other mechanicalmeasures to hold the camera steady during exposure are largely apersonal preference.Each of the systems has both advantages and disadvantages. Tripodsare ideal as they do provide a solid support for the camera but their sizeand weight often means they are left behind when planning a photo tripSince the Panasonic Lumix FZ200 isn’t really a heavy camera, many ofthe lighter tripods are adequate to support the camera payload. Many ofthese fall into the “travel” category and fold up into a small footprint. Thismakes it more convenient to carry and makes it more likely that you willtake it with you when you go out on a shoot, especially if you intend toshoot video clips.The Manfrotto 393 Photo-Movie KitOffers good height and stability, quickrelease plate and pan and tilt head.Many other tripods are stable enough forthe light payload of the FZ200, again theamount of use/cost should be consideredwhen purchasing your tripod.If you intend to shoot a lot of close up macro shots of plants and insectsit is worth investigating tripods where the column can be reversed toallow the camera to sit between the tripod legs and get really close to theground. Some tripods allow the column to swing through 90° to allow thisfacility. There are options for “ball and socket” heads which allow rapidsetting of the camera position or conventional “3-way levelling” head.Newer versions now have rapid pistol grip systems to position the head.Your own preference will dictate which tripod system is best for you.Monopods offer some advantages especially if you are a sports shooteras they allow you hold the camera steady in a vertical plane and yet youare still able to pan with the camera to follow live action events.
