Ground Level Setup for Your Tripod
Ian PlantThere are times when you need to get down really low to capture a dramatic image. In this free video, world renowned outdoor photographer Ian Plant shows you various techniques of using tripods at ground level. A ground level adaptor removes the center column and allows the tripod legs to be spread within a few inches above ground level. Another style of tripod has a removable center column which screws out and lets you spread the legs to their full outright position for ground level shooting. To get even lower, you can use a bean bag to support your camera. You can also set your camera on the ground and support the lens with small rock or an object from your camera bag such as a filter case.
Share tips, start a discussion or ask one of our experts or other students a question.
Already a member? Sign in
3 Responses to “Ground Level Setup for Your Tripod”
Explore videos by Ian Plant
You may be interested in
Premium Membership
Unlock exclusive member content from our industry experts.
- 24/7 Access to Premium Photography Videos, Tips, and Techniques
- Step-by-Step Instructional Demos and Guides
- 50% Off Video Downloads Purchased in the Outdoor Photography Guide Shop
- Access to Ask the Expert Program
Unlock exclusive member content from our industry experts.
- 24/7 Access to Premium Photography Videos, Tips, and Techniques
- Step-by-Step Instructional Demos and Guides
- 2 Full-Length Video Downloads to Watch Offline
- 50% Off Video Downloads Purchased in the Outdoor Photography Guide Shop
- Access to Ask the Expert Program
Gold Membership
$463 Value
Get everything included in Premium plus exclusive Gold Membership benefits.
- 24/7 Access to Premium Photography Videos, Tips, and Techniques
- Step-by-Step Instructional Demos and Guides
- 8 Full-Length Video Downloads to Watch Offline
- 2 Full-Length Photography Classes to Keep for Life
- "How to Shoot Creatively" Educational Track
- Discounts on Purchase-to-Own Content in the Outdoor Photography Guide Shop
- Access to Ask the Expert Program
- Exclusive GOLD LIVE Streaming Events
One of my friends used a cigarette packet one evening - it worked for him :) https://www.instagram.com/p/Br6fa7gFHqx/
I mounted my old Slik ball head to a piece of board, about 30 inches long and probably 4 inches front to back. I mounted the head a bit closer to the rear of the board to help out the balance, and I just lie on the ground and prop myself up a bit to shoot. Works fine for ground level shots of small critters and birds.
One way I've gotten down to ground level is to lay the tripod on its side, and adjust the head as needed. Sometimes the legs have to be weighted or head lifted onto something.