Im new with tripods and lost the directions 2 how 2 use it! how do u even put your video camera on it???

Question

Im new with tripods and lost the directions 2 how 2 use it! how do u even put your video camera on it???

Answer 1

Depends on the mount.

We will get to that in a moment - but first, lets get you up to height.  You will first need to extend the legs on your tripod.  The legs are usually in 4 sections with 3 locks in between.  The two most commonly used locks are the s***w and pressure latch.

- The s***w type is self explanatory.  Unscrew to loosen, and s***w to tighten.

- The latch type is similar to the latch on some watch bands and necklaces.  It is hard to describe accurately for every tripod.  If you don't see a s***w, you probably have a latch.  Once you get it open, you will understand how it works.

- Extend all legs to their full lengths and secure the locks.  If the tripod is too high for you, lower the tripod until you can look down onto the platform. There is no prescribed method to adjusting, so take your time.  Some situations require long periods of adjustment.

Once your tripod is standing freely, you need to know what kind of mount is used to secure your camera.  The two most common are s***w and quick release .

1.  If you have a s***w s***w type, you will find a k**b on the bottom of the platform.  If you turn it, it will turn a s***w protruding up through the center of the platform.   Sometimes, you will also find a spring loaded post protruding through the platform next to it.

- If this is the type you have, you merely set the camcorder on the platform.  There will be two (or maybe one) matching holes on the bottom of your camera near the center.  As you set the camcorder on the platform, ensure you align the s***w on the tripod with the threaded hole on the bottom of your camera.  The spring loaded post (if present on the tripod) should align with the unthreaded hole on the bottom of your camcorder.  If you do this correctly, your camcorder should sit relatively flat on the tripod platform while you tighten the s***w from underneath.  Do not tighten the s***w more than 'hand tight' , or you might not be able to remove camcorder after a long shoot in heat or cold.

2.  Most quick release systems include an additional baseplate with the tripod, so if you have an extra piece in the box or bag that looks like it screws onto something, it is the spare base plate for the bottom of the camcorder.  The quick release system requires removal of the base plate from the platform, and then, the base plate must be mounted to the bottom of the camcorder exactly like the process mentioned earlier for a s***w type mount.  

- Most quick release mounts use a lever to unlock the base plate.  Some tripods may be different.  Once you learn how to remove the plate from the platform, don't forget.  You will need to remember so you can put the camcorder back on the tripod as well as take it off to remove the plate.

- Once the base plate is mounted to the bottom of your camcorder, hold your camcorder level above the tripod with the base plate slightly above the platform.  Open the lever or locking device and lower the camcorder so the plate sits in the recess in the platform.  You may need to tilt the camcorder to a certain angle for ease of insertion, and then return the camcorder to level for this to work properly.

- Once the plate is in and the camcorder is sitting level, return the lock to its original position.  If it returns completely, the plate is probably secure - give the camcorder a solid tug upwards to be sure.

Your camcorder should now be securely mounted and fairly level.  You will need to make slight adjustments to the legs to find the proper filming height and angle.  Most tripods go to a maximum height of 6 feet.

- There is usually a way to crank the camera higher on its center post.  This usually requires unscrewing a large nut in the center of your tripod and cranking on the small crank handle (or pulling the head up manually).  Once you find the desired height, re-tighten the central nut - again, only hand tight.

You should now be ready - unless you forgot to insert the tape, connect the power, and affix lighting, audio, or any other accessory to the camera.

Answer 2

The top of the tripod screws into the bottom of your camera...