One of my biggest challenges with photography is holding still.

It sounds so easy but the weight of the Nikon D7500 paired with a macro lens makes for a hefty load to hold steady.

A tripod seems too fussy but it would likely improve focus and clarity.
More stunning photos from you! The colours are so so hot! Wonderful.
I’ve seen people use an expanding single leg rather than a tripod, that can be packed very easily. A bit like a walking pole.
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Interesting! Thank you for the tip Ashley. I’m so happy you like these. Take good care!
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A monopod would. I rarely use a tripod, but keep a decent quality monopod, with a ball head, in the car. I typically use it when the light is low and I need to shoot distant subjects. I don’t use it for any close or flight shots. Swinging the leg around is highly dangerous to myself and all around me.
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This made me laugh Ted. Sounds like my bowling game. I’m a legendary klutz. But maybe I can manage a monopod. I’ll have to look into it. Thank you so much!
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Great photos, Sandra! A tripod will help, but they are bulky. Did you get a new camera?
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Thank you John! I got this one early spring. It’s heavy!! But I like the image quality vs the D3300. How are you liking your Zed? Your images are beautiful.
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Thanks! Love the camera, having the 24/200mm zoom took it to the next level. the old 3300 was a good camera but it can’t compete with the newer bodies and tech.
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Thanks for this touch of delicacy
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Thank you Franck! I’m happy you enjoyed these. I hope you’re doing well. Take care
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I often think pressing the shutter moves the camera a fraction. So, in the past, I’ve tried setting the timer to a 2 or even 5 or 10 second delay then holding steady while the camera clicks itself. Might be worth a try or experiment….?
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That’s a great idea! Thank you for the suggestion. I’m happy to have a few things to try. Take care Mike.
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Yes, the tripod would improve things but it means lugging the tripod out and setting it up. I often skip the tripod because it’s not convenient. But this week, I did a panorama using my Canon mounted on a tripod and then editing it in Lightroom (as opposed to just using my iPhone to make the shot). There is a big difference.
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I have a tripod too Chris. I really don’t use it as often as I probably should. I’m going to dust it off and experiment. Looking forward to seeing your panorama!
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Beautiful macros, Sandra! Keeping still is always a challenge indeed, especially if you end up with the camera free floating and can’t rest an arm or a hand against anything to steady it! You did real good! 🙂
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Sometimes the angle I’m reaching for does leave me free floating like you say. That is when it is the hardest to stay still. Thank you Pete!
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PS: You might already do this, but I try to get the focus as near as possible then I gently move the camera in or out to try to get the sweet spot. Sometimes it takes a few shots just to get one that works 🙂
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I really like this strategy! Since finding I could focus the Sigma lens myself this has been such a useful suggestion. Still sometimes I’m swaying about like a lunatic or the breeze/wind kicks in. I think I will try experimenting with a tripod or something similar. I really haven’t tried using one previously.
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I know what you mean about the swaying about like a lunatic lol! 🙂 I tried tripod in the past but it didn’t work for me. I tend to just grab opportunities whenever I see them. Where possible I lean against something, brace myself with shoulder arm, hand even head, to help steady the camera, but this is not alway possible, I know. I am glad you like the strategy, I use it all the time.
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This is very much my style too Pete. I spontaneously follow the subjects where they take me. That’s a big part of what I enjoy most about making pictures. Thanks for sharing your insights Pete!
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Most of all, thank you Pete! I hope you’re doing well.
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Photography, like life, is a matter of learning every dang day, Sandra. Your photos show great brilliance!
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Thank you so much Mark! You’re so kind.
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