Happiness Is … Pocket-sized Gear

The 8x zoom on my iPhone 17pro requires either a very steady hand or a tripod. Macro and night photography require the same.

I have a full-sized tripod in Texas. Here at home, I have a compact table top tripod. Neither of these is of any use to me when I’m out for my morning walks because I choose to not carry anything with me besides my house keys, my phone, and my headset. If it isn’t light weight and doesn’t fit in a fanny pack, my jacket pocket or the slim pockets of my exercise pants, it doesn’t go with me.

Recently, while searching other phone camera gear on Amazon, I came across this tripod made by Lamicall that folds flat. When folded up, it’s thinner than my phone, and isn’t much bigger overall than the palm of my hand.

I read the reviews and when anything I’m interested in has a 4.5 out of 5 star reviews from many customers, I’m interested. This little gadget met my requirements in every way, so I ordered it.

The tripod sets up quickly and easily (instructions are included but not required). It includes a strong extra magnet to attach to the back of the phone case. The magnet on the tripod itself is very strong, and held my phone easily, but I attached the extra magnet for additional security.

With a slight tilt back, it doesn’t tip and can also be attached to standard tripods.

The day after it arrived and a day later, I gave it a test run on my morning walks.

Because I was the only one out at that early hour, I had to be my subject. Modeling is definitely not in my skill set nor in my comfort zone. That said, I was anxious to try out my new gadget, so pose I did.

Trying to pose a “candid” shot
The shadows were strong on this bright morning

For both of the above photos, I used the timer for shutter release.

The next two photos are the same scene. I used the new tripod and a wireless bluetoothed shutter release.

Shot at 1x
Same scene shot at 8x

I’m anxious to see how it works when my next gear item arrives.

Can you guess what that might be?

**Note: I’m not affiliated with, nor do I get paid by the brands/web sites I mention in my posts. I simply hope to pre-answer any possible questions about the gear I use.

Comments

12 responses to “Happiness Is … Pocket-sized Gear”

  1. explorenewness Avatar

    Enjoy your new gadget! Now I’m curious to what you have coming in the mail next!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Terry Avatar

      Thanks, Lenore! My next “gifty” has arrived, but the big reveal won’t happen until Monday, Aug 03. Have a great day!

      Like

  2. Bernie Avatar

    I looked at you wearing a jacket and I’m wondering how?! Even if you walk super early in the morning it’s still so hot! I think your candid posed shots are perfect and obviously you’ve mastered this new toy.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Terry Avatar

      For as long as I can remember, my body has been cold, Bernie. No circulation problems, just an aversion to cold. Anywhere between 10 and 20 celsius is a perfect walking temp for me. The jacket is a bit deceiving because it’s only a very light weight windbreaker/rain jacket. I make my posts ahead of time over the summer, so I took these photos before the big heat set in. Thanks for your kind compliments on the “candids”. Enjoy the rest of your day!

      Like

      1. Bernie Avatar

        Ah like in June when we never hit above 20 for 85% of the month. I am organized about most things but 75% of the time I write and post the same day. I might jot the concept of the post down ahead of time and some I research a lot for. Bet you are enjoying the heat!!

        Liked by 1 person

      2. Terry Avatar

        I find when I make my posts ahead of time, it frees up more time for me to comment on others’ posts and reply to everyone who comments on mine. Also, when I make them ahead of time, I never feel any pressure to get a post together. I love the heat, and so far, I don’t believe I’ve ever in my life, said the words, “It’s too hot outside”. In Texas in the winter, on rare days where the high is 25°C, while hubs makes his way to the pool, I bundle up in winter sweaters. Truth.

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      3. Bernie Avatar

        At 25….i guess it is all about acclimation to local temps. Here for us 25 to 30 only makes up such a short time in our year.

        Liked by 1 person

  3. Betty Avatar

    That looks perfect for you, Terry! Now, we are expecting even more great photos from you! I do not have any idea of what your next gear will be.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Terry Avatar

      Thanks, Betty! I’ll keep you in suspense. 😉 Have a great day!

      Liked by 1 person

  4. annemariedemyen Avatar

    That looks like a nice solid tripod. I love that you have workout benches and signs in your park. I wonder if they get used a lot?

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Terry Avatar

      The tripod is surprisingly stable for how small it is. Once in a while, I see people using the station, Anne. I’ve tried a few of the exercises, but by the time I reach this area, I’m full into peak speed for my walk, and don’t like to slow down. I’m guessing they must be used enough to justify maintaining them. Have a great day!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. annemariedemyen Avatar

        You too, Terry!

        Liked by 1 person

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