Videos

If there’s one bit of advice we’ve all heard a million times, it’s “Be sure and use a tripod.” Yet, despite the fact that sharp images are the goal of just about everyone, it’s sort of amazing how many times photographers “forget” to bring along a tripod.

The dilemma, of course, is that carrying a heavy tripod can be tiring on a day-long shoot in the field, and for some reason, photographers often hesitate to set up their three-legged friend when shooting at home. But after watching this two-minute video from photographer Tyler Neely, with four fun tripod hacks, you’ll find yourself out of excuses.

As you may have guessed from the lead image above, one simple hack requires nothing more than a long piece of string. Our favorite tip for indoor photography involves the creative use of a lamp, as both a “tripod” and a light source. Simply unscrew the shade, thread your camera’s tripod socket to the lampshade bolt, turn on the lamp, and you’re good to go.

Of course there’s also the ubiquitous bean bag that’s small enough to carry everywhere, as well as a creative tip for a DIY cellphone tripod when you want to take a few informal portraits at a bar or fast food joint.

You can find more fun projects on Nelly’s YouTube channel, and be sure to look at our earlier story with five creative hacks for eye-catching portraits.