What Type Of Tripod Should I Choose?

Search for a tripod and you'll be able to find thousands of models, often presented as though they all perform the same job. This can be extremely confusing, even for the most experienced photographer.

At Vanguard we've been designing, manufacturing and selling tripods and other photography accessories since 1986. In that time we've spoken to countless photographers around the world, from those new to photography through to professionals with decades of experience. This experience allows the design team to continually adapt and develop the products that match the different styles and photography trends.

From this experience, we know that there are four main tripod designs to consider:

• traditional centre column tripods
• multi-angle centre column tripods
• no built in centre column tripods
• levelling tripods

Each has different strengths, and each can be available in travel-sized or full-sized formats. The right choice depends on what you photograph, how you work and how far you need to carry it.

Here we explain the different types of tripod, along with a few related items to consider when making your decision.

A quick overview

This overview will help you identify which tripod design best matches your photography before diving into more detail or comparing individual models.

You then need to look at the additional factors like travel sized portability or full-sized working height and stability, the best head for your style, and the detailed specifications like height with and without the centre column extended to choose the right tripod for your style.

Which tripod type is best for your photography?

The table below is a starting point rather than a rule. The head, camera/lens combination, working height and location can change the best choice, but the pattern is useful when narrowing the market.

1. Traditional centre column tripods: 

A traditional centre column moves vertically through the tripod canopy. Raise it for extra height when you need a higher perspective or for your comfort; lower it when you want the camera closer to the tripod legs for added stability. This is easy and quick.

Why choose a traditional centre column?

The main benefit is simplicity. One lock gives you a useful range of vertical adjustment without changing all three legs. This is why the traditional centre column remains common across both entry-level and professional tripods.

Which photography styles suit a traditional centre column best?

• General photography - The simplest option when your camera normally stays above the centre of the tripod.
  
• Landscape photography - Especially when you want straightforward setup and don’t need the full centre column extension every time.
  
• Portrait and studio photography - Fast height changes are useful while the camera remains centrally positioned.
  
• Travel photography - The centre column helps a compact tripod achieve useful height while keeping the folded legs compact and light.
  

What to be aware of?

For low angle shots, most designs also allow the column to be reversed, shortened or paired with a low-angle adaptor for simple low angle shots. Shortening or using a low angle adaptor can be quite an involved process where the head needs to be removed and reattached, and reversing the centre column can make it quite awkward to use your camera, so if this is an important use, we recommend looking for a tripod with a split centre column. 

Extending the centre column moves the camera farther from the tripod apex and introduces a longer unsupported tube into the system. When maximum rigidity matters, use the legs for height first and extend the centre column only as much as the composition requires.

Tips to make the most of a tripod with a traditional centre column

If you already have a traditional tripod and want to create overhead shots, then you can get a horizontal arm to fit to the tripod rather than a new tripod. This will not generally offer all the functionality of a multi-angle centre column, and will add weight, but it can be a cheaper option than replacing a perfectly good tripod.

Vanguard traditional tripods to consider:

2. Multi-angle centre column tripods

A multi-angle centre column allows you to move the centre column vertically, but a Vanguard multi-angle tripod can also move almost 360° in any direction, allowing you to take the camera to your subject and making it easier to position your tripod for your perfect shot. Please note that the movement varies by manufacturer and movement in leading brands can be limited to a 90° horizontal position, so it’s worth checking the movement available.

Why choose a multi-angle centre column?

A multi-angle offers the functionality of a traditional centre column with the benefit of positioning freedom that delivers the most versatile type of tripod. Instead of moving the complete tripod to change the camera position, you can move the camera relative to the legs. This can save substantial setup time in macro, product and overhead work.

Which photography styles suit a multi-angle centre column best?

• Macro photography – Move the camera to frame your shot without worrying about how to position the legs.
  
• Food and product photography – Move the multi-angle centre column to frame the subject at the right angle rather than continually repositioning the tripod.
  
• Flat lays and overhead content - A horizontal or angled centre column can place the camera directly above the subject for either stills or video, such as an unboxing video.
  
• Creative landscape photography - Reach over foreground obstacles such as walls and fences, deliver low angles with ease, or position the camera where the tripod legs cannot stand.
  

What to be aware of?

Sounds ideal, so why doesn’t every tripod have a multi-angle centre column? The compromise is that the pivot mechanism normally adds weight and complexity. Like a traditional centre column there is a vertical control, and two additional controls. The first allows the centre column to tilt and the second allows the centre column to rotate. As a result, it requires more time and practice to get familiar with.

In addition, putting the centre column at 90° moves mass away from the centre of the three legs, increasing leverage and making balance and vibration control more demanding. When the flexible positioning is not needed, keeping the column centred and retracted remains the most stable configuration and allows it to operate much like a tripod with a traditional centre column.

Tips to make the most of a tripod with a multi-angle centre column

You may want to counterbalance the tripod centre column when it is set out horizontally as this will help improve the balance of the tripod when the camera is attached.

Vanguard multi-angle centre column tripods to consider:

3. No centre column tripods

A no-centre-column tripod places the head on the platform directly above the tripod legs. The legs provide the normal working-height range and some systems still offer a traditional centre column attachment that may be included with the tripod, or available separately for the occasions when extra height is needed.

Why choose a tripod with no centre column?

Removing the built in centre column creates a more direct connection between the tripod head and the top of the tripod, eliminating one potential source of flex when a centre column is extended. It can also allow a lower minimum working height and a slimmer folded profile to make it easier to pack and carry.

That does not mean every tripod with no built in centre columns is automatically more stable than any other tripod as other variables need to be considered, such as leg diameter, number of sections, head and operating height.

Which photography styles suit a tripod with no centre column best?

• Landscape photography - Particularly when rigidity, portability and low-angle work are priorities.
  
• Wildlife and long-lens photography – Connecting the head directly to the tripod can deliver a more rigid fit and suit a heavier camera and lens combination, while also maximising portability.
  
• Astrophotography - The camera normally stays in one position for longer exposures, so rigidity tends to matter more than quick vertical adjustment.
  
• Low-angle photography - removing the centre column allows the camera to be set closer to the ground with ease, for simpler low angle shots.
  
• Outdoor and expedition photography – Removing the centre column allows the legs to fold to a slimmer profile, making them easier to carry in hand or pack.
  

What to be aware of?

The main loss is height and convenience. A tripod with no centre column will be limited to the height of the extended legs, and if you want to raise the camera by 10-20cm you will need to adjust the leg lengths rather than simply extending a centre column (assuming the tripod isn’t already at maximum extension). 

If a centre column can be fitted, this is time consuming and cumbersome to complete in the field, and if fitted will generally impact the folded length of the tripod. So while having a centre column you can fit is a bonus, it has its drawbacks. This can be improved by fitting a quick release system to the top of the tripod and the top of the centre column to attach and release your centre column with ease.

Tips to make the most of a tripod with no centre column

A quick release system can help you attach and release your centre column with ease for those shots when additional height is needed, or you need to add a levelling system or swap tripod heads for different shoots. 

Vanguard no built in centre column tripods to consider:

4. Levelling tripods

Dedicated levelling tripods often replace the conventional centre column with a levelling base or platform at the top of the tripod. This allows the user to level the tripod head with ease.

Why choose a levelling tripod?

Speed. On sloping or uneven ground, a conventional tripod may need multiple leg adjustments before the tripod head is level. A levelling base lets you level your tripod head fast and easily.

Which photography styles suit a levelling tripod best?

• Video - A levelling system will be a familiar feature to a videographer panning on uneven ground where the level is key.
  
• Landscape photography – Ideal for levelling a traditional ball head or 3-way pan head on uneven ground for reframing your shot or panoramas.
  
• Wildlife and long-lens work - A levelling platform can speed setup with gimbal, pan or video heads on uneven terrain.
  

What to be aware of?

Like the columnless centre column tripods, the main loss is height and convenience. A tripod with a levelling base has no centre column and will be limited to the height of the extended legs. If you want to raise the camera by 10-20cm you will need to adjust the leg lengths rather than simply extending a centre column (assuming the tripod isn’t already at maximum extension). 

If you already have a tripod and you're just missing the levelling system, then you can fit a levelling adaptor between the head and the tripod to level the camera, saving the need for a new tripod.

There are also two Vanguard styles to consider, either a built in levelling system or a removable levelling system. The built in levelling system, such as the Alta Pro 3VL Series, is generally lighter and more compact when folded, while the removable levelling system is generally bulkier and heavier. The benefit of the levelling system, such as on the Alta Pro 3VRL Series, is that it allows you to use the same tripod for multiple styles and acts as a true quick release system for swapping tripod heads.

Tips to make the most of a tripod with a levelling base

Look at the accessories available for the removable levelling base to ensure they will be of use before deciding on a built in or removable levelling system. For example, on the Alta Pro 3VRL Series there is a centre column to add height, a lightweight platform to improve portability for a great landscape tripod when paired with a dual axis ball head, and additional levelling bases so you can set up the system for multiple shoots with ease. 

Vanguard levelling tripods to consider:

What sized tripod?

Before you finalise your choice, it’s worth considering the balance between portability and stability. It’s all well and good having the largest and most stable landscape tripod available, but that’s not much use if you can’t carry it to your location. So in addition to types of tripod, it’s advisable to consider size.

If you exclude table tripods such as the VESTA VS-82 or the more versatile VESTA GO T 203AB, then there are two main “sizes” – travel and full sized – though like anything, this covers a wide variance. 

At Vanguard we define a travel tripod based on a folded size, including the head, of 56cm or less. This is not an industry standard, but is based on the maximum height of hand luggage used by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) cabin luggage guidelines, though these do vary by airline, as at August 2026 to ensure it is as objective a measure as possible. Even so, this covers a wide range of sizes from Vanguard alone, from the ultra-compact VEO 3GO Series which folds to as little as 34cm, to the VEO 5XT Series (coming soon) which uses the full 56cm allowance. 

At Vanguard we define a full size tripod that folds longer than 56cm, but even here there are tripods you can consider extra-large, like the Alta Pro 3VRL 303CV18 which folds to 86.5cm and extends to 1.8m. The difficulty is creating an objective measure that moves from full sized to extra-large

Folded diameter is another useful specification that is rarely highlighted. Apex design, leg positioning and centre column shape can all affect how bulky a tripod feels. For example, the Alta Pro 3X 304CLBPS is a solid tripod with 30mm legs and no built in centre column which, combined with the accuracy of CNC machining, has a diameter of just 8.5cm that is 3-5cm slimmer than most equivalent Vanguard tripods. This makes it easier to carry in hand and pack onto a camera bag.

As a result, it’s always worth considering the exact specifications of the tripod you are considering, whether a travel tripod or a full sized tripod is the best option.

Accessories to consider

Before you settle on upgrading your tripod, or want to make the most of the tripod you are buying, you can consider the accessories that are available that can be used to upgrade any tripod. Here we list some of the options available, but this is not a complete list.

Heads: This is a huge subject in its own right, and the right head can influence the choice of tripod. For example, if you have a dual axis ball head like the lightweight LB-S Series or the professional LBP-S Series for landscape photography you can level in seconds and reframe your shot with the top axis without the need for a levelling system. You can see our ball head buying guide for more information on choosing a ball head.

Quick release system: Being able to customise your tripod allows you to tailor it to your photoshoot, whether that’s a landscape, video or studio project. This can be done with integrated series like the Alta Pro 3VRL Series, but this limits you to the accessories available for that series. Now there are adaptors being designed to fit to any tripod and allow you to attach the head or accessory of your choice in seconds, like the Switch QRS Series (coming soon!).

Levelling adaptor: If you have a traditional ball head, or a head that doesn’t allow you to level the camera such as a video head, then you can fit a levelling adaptor between the head and the tripod to level the camera. 

Adding Ballast: Adding weight to the tripods can reduce movement in some conditions, particularly wind. Placing your bag on the floor secured to the base on the tripod with a cord will help improve stability of any tripod. Alternatively you can use accessories such as the Alta Stone Bag which is designed to attach to any tripod legs up to 35mm, and can also act as a shelf in the field to keep lens caps and filters close to hand and easy to find. 

This is not an exhaustive list, but gives an idea of some of the key options available to upgrade any tripod.

So which type of tripod is right for you?

Identifying the type of tripod that is best suited to your needs can help you shortlist the best tripods for you. 

• If you want one straightforward tripod for a wide range of photography, a traditional centre column remains the safest starting point. 
  
• If camera positioning is central to the way you work, particularly for macro, food, product or overhead shooting, then a multi-angle centre column can do everything a traditional centre column can do and offers a meaningful advantage. 
  
• If you value a balance of portability and stability, with easy set low-angle use and do not need constant small height changes, a no-centre-column tripod is worth serious consideration. 
  
• If your work depends on a level panning axis, a levelling tripod can remove one of the most repetitive parts of the setup process.
  

Only then decide how portable you need the tripod to be. A travel tripod folds smaller and is generally lighter making it easier to pack and carry, but compactness may bring more leg sections, less working height or a lighter structure. A full-sized tripod is less convenient to transport, but that extra size can be worthwhile if it delivers the height, stability and workflow your photography actually needs.

Frequently asked questions

Which type of tripod is best for general photography?

A traditional centre-column tripod is usually the most straightforward all-round choice because it combines simpler operation with fast height adjustment. The right size then depends on how far you carry it and the equipment you use.

Which tripod is best for landscape photography?

There is no single winner so it depends on the key features that you would prefer. 

• Traditional centre column tripods are simpler to adjust height
  
• Multi-angle centre columns add better low angle and obstacle avoidance
  
• No centre column designs balance portability, stability and simple low angle use
  
• Levelling systems are great for uneven terrain, but are more video orientated.
  

Which tripod is best for macro photography?

A multi-angle centre column is often the most useful starting point because it can move the camera to the subject without relying on the position of the legs.

Which tripod is best for wildlife and long lenses?

Any tripod can work, but no centre column tripods balance portability and stability, and levelling designs are ideal for uneven terrain, giving them a slight edge. As a rule, more substantial options are more important to minimise movement, though you still have to get your tripod to your chosen location.

Does a centre column make a tripod unstable?

Not automatically. A centre column is useful for quick height adjustment and can be very stable when retracted. Extending it increases leverage and normally reduces rigidity, compared with keeping the camera closer to the tripod apex.

Is a tripod without a centre column always more stable?

No. Removing the column offers a more direct fit to the tripod and removes the centre column that can be a point of weakness, but real-world stability also depends on leg diameter, number of sections, locks, apex construction, head, operating height and conditions.

Can you get a tall travel tripod?

Yes. A compact tripod can use more leg sections and centre column sections to reach a substantial maximum height, like the VESTA GO 264CB which extends to 161.5cm. The trade-off compared to a full sized tripod is lower rigidity, more setup steps and/or greater reliance on the centre column.

What is the advantage of a levelling tripod?

It lets you level the platform under the head independently of the main leg lengths. This can save time on uneven ground and is particularly useful for video, panoramas and other work that needs a level panning axis.

Which tripod is best for a spotting scope?

A traditional tripod is normally the best option, but the more important consideration is generally the head. For a more detailed response, check out the Vanguard blog on "How to choose the right tripod for your spotting scope".

If we've missed any questions, please let us know in the comments below and we'll look to add them in.