Videostativ

Photo tripod or video tripod? What sets them apart?

A camera tripod is a must for both photographers and videographers. Although both types of tripods are similar, there is a big difference: photo tripods have functions optimized to hold the camera firmly in position during exposure, while a video tripod should be able to both hold a camera still during filming and easily switch to smooth camera movements up and down and panning.
By reading our guides, you will increase your chances of choosing the right camera tripod right away.

Tripod for video

A tripod for video should be stable and able to carry heavy camera equipment or a camera with a longer lens while panning and tilting the camera. The stand must not be sensitive to small shocks and vibrations and it must be easy to lock the legs in the chosen position without the risk of them sliding on the surface or permanently changing length.
Many camera tripods for video have tripod legs with double tubes, which increase stability, or very strong tripod legs made of carbon fiber or aluminum. On most tripods, you can also put one or more braces, also called spreaders, between the tripod legs, which further increases the tripod's robustness.
Video tripods either have a wide base plate for video head mounting or are prepared for video head mounting with a ball mount.

Video Head - Tripod head for video

A video tripod head is specially designed to allow you to move the camera with smooth up-down and pan movements. Most video heads are damped which makes the camera movements comfortable. This attenuation can be set on the more professional video heads, which is an advantage when working with different camera equipment. Another more exclusive feature of video heads is built-in counterweight that allows the weight of the camera to be balanced, making handling easy and comfortable.

Attachment points for accessories

Most professional videographers have a smaller monitor, microphone, or other accessory attached to the camera. Make sure your tripod or video head has connection points for accessory arms etc and your job as a photographer will be easier.

The camera tripod - An important investment for professional cinematographers

Be sure to get all the information you need when investing in a video tripod for the first time and you will avoid disappointment and making the wrong purchase. If you choose a tripod in the first place after a low price, it can be an expensive investment because you will probably have to make a new purchase to get the functions and stability you need to be able to achieve a creative and professional end result.