Shooting macro without a tripod

[k9mom]

I've been learning how to use my Canon S3's macro and super macro settings and have been doing so thus far by hand-holding the camera, but this makes it next to impossible to get a really clean, sharp shot. I have an inexpensive tripod but it doesn't allow me to get down close to subjects that are, for example, low to the ground (i.e., flowers, insects, etc.). The tripod also doesn't allow me to position the camera looking straight down on a subject (the tripod mount swivels horizonally but not vertically, if that makes sense). Any suggestion on how to stabilize the camera while shooting objects low to the ground, or looking straight down or within super close range (0 - 3.9 inches):

Here's one I took of a fly yesterday, but with a hand-held, so it is not nearly as sharp as it should/could be...

[corry]

no expert here but how about a bean bag and remote trigger? just got myself a gorllapod and think it will be great for this type of shooting as well.

[navy.wife_2004]

ok. your shot is still more sharp than of mine. lol. love it! wow.

they small tripods, that are bendable. look like spider legs, lol. at circuit city, only about 6 inches tall...

[k9mom]

Originally Posted by corry

no expert here but how about a bean bag and remote trigger? just got myself a gorllapod and think it will be great for this type of shooting as well.

A gorillapod!!! Yes, thanks! Just googled that (had never heard of a gorillapod before) and it is not only perfect for the situation but quite affordable too. Thanks!!

[k9mom]

Originally Posted by navy.wife_2004

ok. your shot is still more sharp than of mine. lol. love it! wow.

Thanks! I was SO proud of my little p&s in getting that shot until I saw THIS one. Check it out -- talk about eating humble pie! Even on my best day, I could never get the level of sharpness and detail with my diminutive S3 sensor as compared to the aforementioned shot. I'm having serious camera envy.

Originally Posted by navy.wife_2004

they small tripods, that are bendable. look like spider legs, lol. at circuit city, only about 6 inches tall...

Thanks for the description. I found several online, ranging from around $20 - $60. Definitely an affordable "must have", even on my paltry budget.

[Holger14]

Originally Posted by k9mom

Thanks! I was SO proud of my little p&s in getting that shot until I saw THIS one. Check it out -- talk about eating humble pie! Even on my best day, I could never get the level of sharpness and detail with my diminutive S3 sensor as compared to the aforementioned shot. I'm having serious camera envy.

I am glad you like it.
I shot it crouching on one knee. No tripod.
In fact, I think tripod will only limit your framing and focusing. Insects rarely sit still for very long.

Your shot is very nice. I used to own S3 and its macro capabilities were rather good.

[corry]

i still love my fuji p/s for it's macro capabilities......don't have a dedicated macro lens for my dslr so for closeups of projects and things i have my fuji handy and it does take great closeup/macro shots.

[daft_biker]

When shoting close to the ground you might be able to use your left hand like a tripod. Much quicker than faffing about with fidgety and unstable gorrilapods or tripods

Gorrilapods and tripods have their uses if you need a long shutter speed but if you can get a hand between a solid surface and the camera you should be able to get the focus where you want it.

[k9mom]

Originally Posted by daft_biker

When shoting close to the ground you might be able to use your left hand like a tripod. Much quicker than faffing about with fidgety and unstable gorrilapods or tripods

Good suggestion - thanks! I'll try that tomorrow morning (before I down my usual pot o' coffee). Caffeine + hand-held camera = fuzzy fotos

[k9mom]

Originally Posted by Holger14

I am glad you like it.
I shot it crouching on one knee. No tripod.
In fact, I think tripod will only limit your framing and focusing. Insects rarely sit still for very long.

Your shot is very nice. I used to own S3 and its macro capabilities were rather good.

Incredible photo, Holger! And without a tripod - you must have the nerves of a neurosurgeon.

The fly I shot actually did sit still for a long time -- a VERY long time. It was very strange. I practically buried him with my lens, I was that close, and the fly still didn't budge. I thought it was dead until it eventually flew off.

And I agree, the S3, with its macro and super macro capabilities, does pretty good. I have just begun getting to know this camera's full range of functionality and I'm having a lot of fun learning what all it can do. Still, I wish it had a larger sensor, as I feel really limited with this camera in low light/indoor environs where higher ISOs are typically needed. Still it is a great camera for learning and it hopefully ready me for a dSLR in the not-too-distant future, budget willing...