1.     Let’s start with the obvious answer; for the steadiness and resulting sharp images. Many technologies have recently made tripods less necessary; image stabilization and cameras that produce great images at higher ISOs are probably the most important. However, I feel that nothing will produce that super sharp image with great image quality like locking your camera down on a tripod.

2.     Another reason is exposures that are way too long for handholding with any technology. For example if you want to photograph a building at blue hour at a low ISO, there really will be no other way to get a sharp image other than using a tripod.

3.     Slowing down is yet another reason. Sometimes it helps to slow down your decision making process for well-crafted images. I’m not saying all the time, as I also do a lot of photography where quick reactions are crucial. Sometimes though, there’s nothing like considering each decision carefully.

4.     Precise camera positioning for perspective control. I usually shoot portraits handheld. When I’m shooting a composite though I often go to a tripod. If I want the perspective to be very precise either to match backgrounds perfectly or to create surrealism, it helps to be able to match camera to subject distance precisely with camera height.

For more images check out my portfolio at www.rabimaging.com.