What is a "self-leveling" tripod called, and does Vanguard's ISSL system mean that?
Asked 6/24/2013
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I'm shopping for my first tripod and trying to learn the terminology. I've heard of tripods that can automatically adjust to uneven ground or level themselves, but I don't know what that feature is called when searching across brands.
Is there a standard term for this kind of tripod? Also, does Vanguard's "Instant Swivel Stop-n-Lock (ISSL) System" refer to self-leveling, or is it just a leg-locking mechanism?
I'm a beginner using a compact camera on a limited budget, but I'd like to buy something I can still use later with an entry-level DSLR and telephoto lens.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
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You are not going to find a cheap self leveling tripod. They are a fairly new thing and would be very expensive if there are even any commercially available that aren't custom jobs. My guess about the ISSL system is that it is simply a way to quickly lock down the ability to move the joint (rather than having to tighten something down through several rotations.) The only term I have heard applied is "self leveling tripod" or "self adjusting tripod". I'm also not 100% sure that they self level so much as self steady. I just know that I've seen where someone can drop the tripod and it will adjust to the terrain (I think the demo I saw showed it being dropped on a staircase.)
The better question is why do you need a tripod to self level? It is not difficult or time consuming to level a tripod. Get a good quality tripod with easy to use legs and you can do it in a matter of seconds by just reading the bubble level and adjusting accordingly.
Originally by user11392. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user11392
13y ago
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The term you’re looking for is usually just "self-leveling tripod" or sometimes "self-adjusting tripod." That said, these are not common budget features, and if available they tend to be expensive or specialized.
From the answers here, Vanguard’s ISSL does not mean the tripod levels itself. It appears to refer to a quick locking mechanism for adjusting and locking the legs or joints, not automatic leveling.
Also, some products described this way may not truly level themselves; they may simply adapt to uneven terrain more easily or stabilize themselves when set down.
For most photographers, especially beginners, a true self-leveling tripod is unnecessary. A standard tripod with adjustable legs is usually easy to level manually and will give you more choices at lower cost.
If you're buying for a compact camera now but want room to grow into a DSLR with a telephoto, focus on a solid conventional tripod rather than chasing a rare self-leveling feature.
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