Any great photographer will have plenty of accessories that make shooting quality images both easier and more convenient. A tripod is one of those accessories that for many photographers won’t be a case of wanting, it’ll be a case of needing in order to get the right shots.
When searching for a tripod just like lenses, camera bags or even straps – the lists of options available are endless, confusing and typically hard to navigate.
Its especially hard to figure out what specifics you want to prioritize ranging from ball heads, to extendable height to size and weight of your tripod. All of these specifications are important in understanding which flexible tripod is going to work best for you.
This list will look a wide range of tripod that offer better functionality for a whole range of different shooting patterns. We’ll consider a wide range of shooting possibilities, photography styles and offer an insight into who might find which tripod best.
As always we aim to cover all of this whilst also composing a list that is accessible for a range of skill levels, budgets and shooting styles.
JOBY Gorillapod 1K Stand. Lightweight Flexible Tripod
The Joby Gorillapod tripod is the first on our list. This is the ultimate light weight portable camera tripod that provides great image shooting abilities for its users. Perfect for those that are travelling or spending long periods of time with the tripod folded up with other gear.
This tripod won’t weigh you down nor take up valuable gear bag space. This is also an extremely flexible tripod – firstly, it’s comfortable on almost any terrain. On top of this though, its also worth considering grip wrap and stand modes.
These functions offer perfect shooting stability for still life, cinematography and landscape shooting, or even live streaming! This is the prefect all round tripod for the versatile shooter.
Pros
- Great build quality.
- Highly adaptable.
- Lightweight and compact design for travelling with.
- Good value for money.
- Usable on almost any terrain.
- 3 modes to use with – grip, wrap and stand – perfect for a wide range of photography uses.
- 1k carrying abilities means that this tripod is compatible will the majority of equipment.
- Perfect for a versatile shooter.
- Great for advanced photographers and beginners.
Cons
- Joints on the legs are affected by radically altering climates.
- Legs are shorter than other models.
- This tripod isn’t very durable.
Manfrotto MT190XPRO4 Aluminum 4-Section Tripod
The Manfrotto MT190XPR04 tripod is another great all round tripod that we’ve decided to include on this list for plenty of reasons.
This is an extremely practice and easy to use tripod. The ability to also hold an LED is an added bonus that plenty of other tripods don’t offer. This tripod is incredibly sturdy and well made. Its perfect for outdoor shooting. Its strong frame and hardy build quality mean that it won’t be affected by changing weather conditions.
This tripod is also great for beginners, or those that require one hand to focus with their camera as you can hold the camera steady using just one hand. The quick set up time is another great feature that has left plenty of users really happy with their purchase.
Pros
- Sturdy and well built.
- Easy to set up.
- Perfect for anyone ranging from beginners to advanced shooters.
- Built in LED holding device.
- Great for outdoor shooting.
- Shoot with only one hand.
- Built in rotating bubble.
- Ergonomically designed.
- Vertical or horizontal shooting possibilities.
Cons
- Plastic attachments are cheap.
- Expensive model in comparison with others on our list.
- This is one of the heavier tripods we will include weighing in at 4.5 lbs.
Benro Mach3 2 Series Aluminum Tripod
The Benro Mach 3 2 series is a tripod is a good value for money tripod that is taller than the other models we have included on our list so far. Its easy to use, practical and well built making it perfect for taking shots outdoors on difficult terrain or in difficult light situations.
For the money this tripod offers plenty of amazing features that have made it particularly popular. The unit is also made by an extremely well known company renown for their camera accessory collection that offer great quality in build and functionality.
Pros
- Great build quality.
- Exceptional design.
- Exceptional value for money.
- Really tall for taking high up angle shots.
- Practical, ergonomic and light weight.
- Reputable company.
- Includes a 3 year warranty.
- Capable of holding even the heaviest cameras.
- Spiked feet for added traction.
- Screw in rubbers that allow for even more stability.
- Twist locks are easy to use, durable and perfect for adapting to your surroundings.
Cons
- One of the heavier options available.
- Not the smallest tripod to carry around.
MeFOTO RoadTrip Classic Lightweight
MeFoto classic tripod is another worthwhile option to consider when buying your versatile tripod. This also comes with a 2 year warranty that is extendable to five years. As well as this, it also comes with a handy carry case which is perfect for taking with you on trips, hikes and adventures.
Rubber grips offer great control and stability whilst shooting, whilst the anti-locking legs are both easy to use, simple and extremely effective. They are capable of stabilising any camera with ease on a range of terrain.
This tripod is extremely lightweight and weather coated for the ability to shoot outside in any condition whatever the world throws at you. Plenty of users have been extremely happy with this tripod and praise it for its great build and adaptability.
Pros
- Great value for money.
- Excellent build quality.
- Perfect for a range of shooting.
- Rubber grips for added camera stability and handling.
- Anti locking legs are easy to use and effective.
- Lightweight at 3.4 lbs and capable of holding up to 4 times its weight.
- Comes with a carry case.
- Can be altered into a monopod.
- 2 year warranty that is extendable.
- Perfect for advanced shooters.
Cons
- More expensive than other models.
- Ball head is cheaply made and becomes stuck after prolonged use.
ZOMEi Tall Tripod
The ZOMEi tripod is another great tripod aimed at those that required a tripod with a great extendable height range. The 18 to 65 feet height range offered by this tripod has left plenty of users extremely happy.
The practical whilst also creative design of this tripod is particularly appealing for plenty of snappers. Its also compatible with almost any camera – capable of carrying up to 33lbs.The tripod itself weighs only a staggering 3.7lbs which is far less than most other models currently on the market.
Pros
- Perhaps the ultimate versatile tripod.
- Great for value for money.
- Exceptional build quality.
- 18 – 65 feet height range.
- 7 lbs weight makes it easy to carry.
- Capable of holding up to 33 lbs in weight.
- Monopod adaptable.
- Comes with a 1 year warranty included with purchase.
- Coma put and lightweight perfect for travelling.
- Usable indoors and outdoors.
- Quick assemble time.
- Three legs are stable and adaptable to different terrain.
- Great for shooting in tight space.
- Perfect for studio photographers.
- Looks professional.
- Aesthetically pleasing design.
Cons
- Cheap carry bag.
- Not great a rapidly changing climates.
Dolica AX620B100 62-Inch Proline Tripod and Ball Head
The Dolica AX620B100 tripod is a top pick for the budget option. Coming in at under 100 dollars this is a great tripod for anyone working with a tight budget.
Its easy to use, effective, lightweight and durable. This is the perfect tripod for anyone wanting the accessory whilst working within the constraints of a tight budget.
Pros
- Great value for money.
- Easy to use.
- Perfect for travel.
- Light weight.
- Quick release legs that extend easily.
- Cable of holding up 13.2 lbs in weight.
- Quick release plate makes it extremely versatile.
- Great for indoor or outdoor shooting.
Cons
- Won’t hold heavier cameras.
- Ball head is poorly constructed.
Conclusion
This list has taken you through some of the best versatile tripods on the market right now. Consider what uses you will need for your tripod before purchasing. Our list has ran through a variety of tripods that will suit different budgets, skill levels and photography types.
Invest in a tripod and immediately see your shots come out more clear, crisp and sharp than ever before!
