How to Put a Camera on a Tripod

The tripod is one of the most common photography accessories used by amateurs and professionals alike. There are many types, but all have the same basic design: three adjustable legs, a pivot arm and a head mount. Tripods provide a stable shooting platform for both still photography and video. If your camera has a threaded hole on the bottom, then you can use it with a tripod.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Camera Tripod

1. Examine your tripod to determine whether it has a removable or fixed head. The "head" is the top part of the tripod, where the camera mounts. Most inexpensive tripods have release catches to remove this part. If so, it will be easier to mount to the camera if it is removed from the tripod.

2. Line up the threads on the bottom of your camera with the thumbscrew sticking out from the top of the tripod head. Screw this into your camera until hand-tight.

3. Replace the mounting head from your tripod if you removed earlier. The lens of the camera should point away from the pivot arm.

4. Lengthen the legs by unlocking the release mechanisms and adjusting them to the desired height.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with your local camera shop for assistance in purchasing the right tripod to match your needs.
• Do not over-tighten the thumbscrew. This can cause costly damage to your camera. Make sure the screw is not too loose, either, as this could allow your camera to separate from the tripod during use.