Leg pads protect the tripod during outdoor work.
A sturdy tripod is one of the most useful accessories for any photographer or videographer. The adjustable legs can be manipulated to provide a level, steady platform on almost any terrain. This allows the photographer to concentrate on getting a perfect shot, rather than simply holding the camera steady. Modern carbon-fiber tripods and older aluminum tripods are both lightweight and easy to handle. Some photographers like to pad their tripods' legs to protect them against damage and provide a better grip for carrying.
Instructions
Tape Method
1. Purchase two to four rolls of padded self-adhesive tape, either the type used for bicycle handlebars or for the grips on tennis and badminton racquets.
2. Clean the upper section of the tripod's legs by wiping it down with a paper towel soaked in rubbing alcohol. The tape will adhere better to a clean surface.
3. Start at the bottom of the first leg. Wrap the tape around the leg twice, immediately above the lock mechanism for the lower portion of the leg. From there, wind the tape up the tripod toward the camera mount. Allow the tape to overlap slightly as you wind it.
4. Finish taping at the top of the tripod's leg by wrapping the tape in a double layer as you did to begin the leg. Stop approximately 2 inches from the top of the leg while there's still room to wrap the tape easily. Cut the tape with scissors then move onto the next leg.
5. Repeat the wrapping process for the remaining two legs.
Tape and Foam Method
6. Wrap the bottom of each tripod leg with sports tape, the kind used for hockey sticks. Make a band that is two layers deep and two turns wide then cut the tape. Make a similar layer of tape at the top of each leg, 2 to 3 inches from the camera platform, then a third band of tape midway between the first two sections.
7. Purchase a length of foam pipe insulation from your local hardware store. This is a cylindrical piece of foam, split down one side, that's designed to go over copper pipe. Choose a small size that will fit tightly over your tripod leg.
8. Measure the tripod leg, from the top of the upper band of tape to the bottom of the lower band of tape. Measure the strip of foam insulation to the same length and cut it cleanly with a utility knife.
9. Slip the insulation over the first tripod leg, with the seam facing inward. Wrap the top tightly with sports tape. Repeat at the bottom and in the middle, where you previously taped the tripod legs. The tape underneath provides friction to prevent the insulation from sliding and rotating.
10. Repeat the process for the remaining two legs. Finish the project by wrapping each foam-covered leg from bottom to top in sports tape while applying enough tension to hold the foam firmly in place.
Tags: band tape, sports tape, inches from, insulation from, process remaining, process remaining legs