Optex tripods can be used with video and still photography cameras.
Tripods, like those manufactured by Optex, are important tools for photographers and videographers who need to keep their camera's as stable as possible when shooting. Videographers need a tripod for most of their work, otherwise the video they shoot can look very jumpy and will be difficult for viewers to follow. Photographers use tripods when using long exposures or telephoto lenses.
Head
At the top of an Optex tripod is the head. This is where the camera is mounted and positioned for taking the picture. If you are shooting with a video camera, the head will be a "Panning" head that allows you to easily turn the video camera to follow what you are shooting. If the tripod is going to be used for still images, then it will have a three way head that can be tightened in one place.
Legs
As the name suggests, tripods have three legs. These legs are often supported with connections to the center column for added rigidity. Tripod legs are easily extended; most Optex tripods having three sections to them. This allows the tripod legs to be positioned on slightly different elevations and still remain level.
Center Column
The center column serves as a stabilizing column for the legs; sometimes, an Optex tripod is constructed with cross connections that attach to the tripod legs. The center column also holds a column that can be extended to allow the camera to be further raised if needed.
Center Column Crank Handle
The small center column crank handle raises the center column that supports the head; it can be folded in for transport. This handle is connected to a gear system that makes it easy for the photographer to raise the center column. Once the correct height is reached, a locking mechanism can be turned to lock the center column in place. This prevents it from retracting quickly and possibly damaging any camera that may be attached to the tripod.
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