Ever zoom in on your photos later and realize they look like they were taken during a minor earthquake? Been there. Sometimes it’s not your vision that’s blurry — it’s your hands.
Ansel Adams once said, ‘There is nothing worse than a sharp image of a fuzzy concept.’ True. But let’s be honest — a fuzzy image of a sharp concept is just as heartbreaking. That’s why one of the best things you can do for your photography is simple: get steady.
The Problem: Shaky Hands, Shaky Shots
Handholding your camera works fine in good light. But when the sun dips, the waves crash, or you want a silky-long exposure, suddenly your hands aren’t enough. Motion blur creeps in, sharpness takes a vacation, and your dream shot ends up looking like an outtake.
The Solution: Lock It Down
Enter: the tripod. Your three-legged best friend.
- Stability: Keeps your frame rock solid.
- Creativity: Lets you shoot long exposures, smooth water, light trails.
- Consistency: Helps you fine-tune compositions without losing your spot.
Bonus tip? Hang your bag from the center column for extra weight in windy conditions. It’s like giving your tripod an anchor.
Pro Tip Alert!
Behind the Shot
This shot shows the power of a tripod in action. The exposure was two full minutes—way too long for anyone to hold a camera steady by hand. The tripod doesn’t just prevent blur; it gives you control to make what I call micro adjustments. Tiny shifts in angle, height, or position—seemingly small—can completely transform a composition, turning an ordinary scene into something striking. That’s the magic of steady gear and a little patience on the rocks at Narragansett.
Gear Tip Alert
When it comes to a tripod, I prefer something lightweight and portable. This Benro has carbon fiber legs, super light yet strong and steady.
On top of the legs I prefer to use a ball head. A ball head is a type of tripod head that has a ball and socket design, allowing rapid adjustments controlled by a single know. Loosen the knob, adjust, tighten the know.
Simple and efficient.
And you know why that’s important? Can if you are doing this right you are going to be adjusting your ball head almost non stop.
Try It Yourself
Next time you’re out, bring a tripod (or even brace your camera on a rock or railing). Shoot the same scene handheld and then steady. Zoom in on both later — the difference will blow your mind.
Take the Next Step
Sharp, steady shots are just the beginning. Sign up for one of my workshops and learn hands-on techniques to make every shot crisp and professional. Step into the process with guidance and see the difference it makes in real time.
Dive deeper into the lessons and stories with my fine art photography books
Learn hands-on techniques in my photography workshops—practical, fun, and inspiring.
Bring peace, beauty, and storytelling into your space with fine art prints.
Get Steady – Bonus Challenge
Choose a subject in motion—a friend, a pet, or waves—and practice keeping your camera steady. Take three shots: handheld, on a tripod, and using a stabilizer (if you have one). Compare how steadiness transforms sharpness and impact.
