Tripod

While trying to do some astrophotography (moon and stars), I became convinced that I needed much more stability in my tripod. With a telephoto lens, just walking around near the tripod base would cause tremendous jitters in the image. I briefly looked into buying a really solid one, but since these can run a small fortune I thought Heck, I can make one. I decided to fabricate it out of my favorite material…wood. If  it was good enough for Ansel Adams, should be good enough for me! I used ash and oak for their strength and weight, and cedar for the lower leg pieces because of its moisture resistance. I first got the ideas for this from a similar design on a web page by Bryan Biggers where he was building a telescope base.

The result is a rock solid tripod when everything is tightened down. 1/8 X 1 inch aluminum bar was used for the braces and brackets. At its extended limit, the overall height is at least 72″. It will accept a standard Ball Head or other camera mount with a 3/8″ thread.

With the braces stored and the unit folded up, it is easily transported. But, with the weight and bulk, I don’t think it’s exactly a backpacking model.

For its intended purpose of providing a stable platform for astrophotography, I think it will do the job.