[Pook]

One of the biggest benefits is that it slows you down... forced you to think, and really look around the viewfinder. This helps your eye see things you wouldn't if hend held. Trees out of people's heads etc... Plus.. shrpness is increased, as there's almost no camera shake, and of course, in low light, it's essential.

Try not to get a really cheap one, as they're almost useless. Too light, and they won't offer support... too heavy and you won;t want to use it :lol:

I've always used Manfrotto pods, and one I really love is the 190. You can select from a range of heads for them too. Not cheap, but worth it... I've dropped mine down mountains, in rivers.. and had cars drive over it.. still going strong. It's been all over the world with me, and outlasted almost all my other photo gear.