CO wrote:
I know that you said a piece of string is out. A stringpod does actually help to steady shots. I went on a trip and was not able to bring a tripod. I made a couple of stringpods and it helps to steady the camera. You just get a 1/4"-20 eyelet bolt and tie a piece of rope to it. You step on the end of the rope and pull up a little. The tension in the rope will steady the camera to a degree. It's not as good as using a tripod, but it helps.
The string tripod also works great in museums.