Read you comment about never using a tripod. I used to use one all the time and was seen carrying the camera with the tripod screwed on wherever I went. Then I switched to a monopod or monopole. It was handier and I discovered you could pick the camera up with the monopod on it and hold it out like a left turn signal and get perfectly balanced shots. It is the same principle as a tightrope walker and balance poles.
Having said all that, I seldom use anything now. I have had like mini strokes from low oxygen levels in my blood and each one gives me less of something -- from balance to remembering how to write words. I have worked through all that and back, now, pretty much to normal and was outside a few minutes ago taking hand held shots of currents in the morning sunshine.
Just gorgeous! You know, these are probably stock photo quality shots? I've just started uploading to http://www.dreamstime.com Why not get paid to do something you love, if you're not already doing so?
Having said all that, I seldom use anything now. I have had like mini strokes from low oxygen levels in my blood and each one gives me less of something -- from balance to remembering how to write words. I have worked through all that and back, now, pretty much to normal and was outside a few minutes ago taking hand held shots of currents in the morning sunshine.