Taking a Tripod to America

[RandomlySet]

We're off to America in November, visiting NYC, Vegas, Arizona and LA.

I was going to take my tripod, but only use it 1 evening to get some nice night photos. Afterall, I don't plan on spending all my trip snapping away.... It'll be mostly "holiday snap shots" TBH. But I would like to some photos for print.

Anyway, just been reading online, and I'm reading that you may need a permit - well, if you're shooting for professional reasons anyway. I've only just gt my DSLR (about Feb 2014), so hardly a professional - hell, only just classed as an enthusiast.

So, is it worth taking a tripod over? Or shall I just hope I can find some flat surfaces that I can rest my camera on?

 

[Nod]

I keep one of these ( http://thepod.ca/ ) in the car for those occasions when I wish I had a tripod. I just have the smallish red one and have used it with a D700 and a long lens for a couple of seconds exposure. It can be emptied of its plastic bead filling for transport then refilled with pretty much anything once you're there. IIRC, the last one I bought (a gift for someone) came from Jessops.

 

[RandomlySet]

Thanks.... That might be better than a tripod TBH as I can throw it in SWMBO's bag, so in theory, I'll have something with me at all times.... Nice.

Probably also worth getting a remote too (instead of using the self timer as I would on a tripod)

 

[BMD]

If you can take a tripod do so. I was in the States last year and took a smallish 'travel' one with me. I didn't have any issues with the authorities or anyone else when using it. It's just a case of being sensible. As an example, I wouldn't set it up on the strip in LV because it's normally packed with people if you get my drift.

Plenty of manufacturers make them, Velbon, Manfrotto, Gitzo (good, but v. expensive), RedSnapper to name but 4.

 

[LongLensPhotography]

I wouldn't set it up on the strip in LV because it's normally packed with people if you get my drift..

I have done exactly that and guess what? You just have to behave sensibly, ie, place it where it doesn't obstruct the path.

 

[markmullen]

Have a look at the recent travel tripod thread, on the strength of that I bought a tiny little Redged to compliment my existing Gitzo tripods and it was superb, lightweight, small, sturdy and cheap.