A tripod keeps a camera steady, so pictures do not come out blurry, especially in a dark environment.

It is also helpful in giving you time in composing a shot, unlike when shooting handheld.

There are tripods with either a ball head or a video head. A ball head allows to quickly make adjustments to composition, with the tripod plate (the accessory that connects the camera to the tripod) on a small metal ball. Video tripods have the ability to “pan and tilt” a camera, meaning you can swivel the camera (pan) and point it up and down (tilt).

I recommend using a ball head for still photography. A video tripod is better suited for videographic content.

Tripods are either made of aluminum or carbon fiber. Carbon fiber tripods are studier and lighter, but cost more.

There are tabletop tripods with a ball head. They are very small and are helpful in macro (close-up) photography, such as toys and flowers.

Some tabletop tripods have bendable legs, allowing you to use dramatic angles.

Popular brands include Manfrotto, Peak Design, and Slik.