The choice of a stand or tripod requires great care, because all our efforts may be rendered futile by using one which is not firm and rigid. The selection of one, however, is not a difficult matter, because that known as the " Ashford," of which several different patterns are made, will be found perfectly reliable. I have had one in constant use for about twenty years and it is still in good condition. In the selection of a tripod, the chief points to be considered are a good firm top, not too small; adjustable sliding legs to compensate for uneven ground; and the possibility of easily and quickly erecting and closing it. Either of the " Ashford " patterns will fulfil all these requirements, and may be had to suit the purchaser in a two or three-fold form. The latter is more convenient for travelling, the former probably more rigid in use.

Tripod Screw

A good form of this is the one sold by Messrs. Newman & Guardia, Ltd., of London. It consists of a screw with a pin on the side, which acts as a stop when the screw has penetrated deep enough into the bush of the camera. A fly-nut is used to clamp the camera firmly to the top of the tripod, and is very convenient in use. The tripod screw will be less likely to get lost if attached, by means of string or light metal chain, to the tripod top. If it should happen to be lost amongst long grass, and one is not certain of the exact spot, it is like looking for the proverbial needle in a stack of hay, besides the possibility of preventing any further work being done for the rest of that day.