Will a new tripod help?

[fortyfour]

Hi everyone. I'm an amateur with a Canon 40D, usually using a 17-55 lens. I've been using a tripod that one of my stepkids must have left in the house -- it's labeled Minolta MX700. I don't use it a lot because it's hard to set up, and hard to keep the camera pointing at exactly what I want . . . my camera shifts or "droops" after I think I've tightened everything up. I just got Kelby's book where he recommends a Manfrotto tripod and a ballhead. So I'm wondering . . . is it worth the investment in that gear? Is it going to be easier and more accurate to use than what I'm doing? Or am I just doing something wrong, and if I try harder I can make my old tripod work? Thanks for any advice!!

[zona5101]

Hi and welcome.

If you really are tightening it all up and it still droops then it is not going to do the job. Investing in a good tripod and head is a good idea IF it helps you in the type of photography you like to pursue. Anytime you want to eliminate camera shake or shoot from a fixed reference point is a good time for a tripod... such as landscape shots, long exposure shots, multiple exposure shots for HDR, macro photography, maybe you have to take a series of repetitive shots and it's easier to put the camera on a tripod so it's not around your neck...you get the idea.
A tripod isn't the first choice for everyone. Some would rather have a shoe mounted flash first. Eventually most photographers end up with a tripod in their gear list.

[RAWcop]

Sounds like your tripod is done for. Do you have a remote trigger switch for your camera? Maybe just the added pressure of taking the picture is shifting it. either way, get a new tripod.
If you don't want to drop some coinage on a top of the line tripod, look for the off brands that are much less and will work for what you need. like: Amazon.com: Ravelli APGL4 New Professional Tripod with Adjustable Pistol Grip Head and Heavy Duty Carry Bag: Camera & Photo
or
Amazon.com: Dolica AX620B100 62-Inch Proline Tripod and Ball Head: Camera & Photo

[sk66]

Sticks are separate from the head..
I agree with Bruce. If you feel a need to "upgrade" a new (ball) head might be enough.

That said, a cheap tripod/head is generally a waste of money in the long run.

[fortyfour]

Thanks for the help! I really appreciate the answers!