Because I started shooting macro photos without a tripod I am very hesitant to use one; it feels so restricting. Once in a while, usually the day after I take some photos and realize it would have been nice to have one, I go out and give the old tripod a try.

Here are some before and after – well, tripod and no-tripod from the backyard again.

with tripod

with tripod

Compared to this image you can see the far left “leaf” is out of focus.

with tripod

plain old plywood that has been outside for 14 years – no tripod