bulldog001 wrote:
I need a tripod for my Pentax. . .
Thank you in advance
Bulldog,
Just a few thoughts on camera platforms and stability:
If you are doing much treking at all, you will at some point hate the t-pod enough to leave it at home.
If you are not shooting where you need time exposures or otherwise need totally hands off, then consider a monopod. there are also "string-pods" that attach a string or cable to the camera's pod mounting hole with a step-on-it device on the other end of the string/cable. You extend the string, step on the end piece, pull UP on the camera to stabilize and shoot. It is very quick and allows more freedom of motion in positioning the camera that any other device. You can make one or buy one. This site has info.
You might also consider a mono-pod if quick setup and weight are an issue. I keep my mono on the camera almost all of the time. I do not even extend always and the extra weight pulling down on the camera also acts as a stabilizer for shots in the 1/60-1/10 sec range for all but my biggest tele.
I also carry a beanbag mount and a tiny remote release instead when in really rough country. (Adorama has the Omnipod Standard Beanbag Camera Support, Measures 9" x 5" x 1", Camouflage). I also carry a separate, 6' strap to secure the bag to larger limbs/trunks then hide and trip remotely when game shows up.
Overall, I also try to avoid the need for any stabilizing by using a slightly higher ISO and speed and good body form (more on the good body form later).
Is important to know you and your equipment and understand when extra stabilization is needed. I find the 1/60th rule about right (slower needs extra stabilization). You also need to consider the environment and situation where shooting. If wind is blowing, you might need a pod even though you are shooting at 1/100. I have shot with camera out over a gorge about 6' from cliff face. Used a 4" fallen limb lying on ground with camera attached to beanbag mount strapped to limb and limb shoved out so camera was 6' from cliff face ( I heard the shudders of you folks reading this!).
Many times a good, stable, body position is enough: feet shoulder width apart and non-dominate foot slightly forward pointing at target (like a pistol firing stance), elbows tucked in tightly to sides, face not touching camera, right hand on release, left hand under lens cradling it at center of balance if a long lens.