Camera movement is the #1 killer of sharpness; I can't believe how much better a tripod makes my lenses look! People get out of the way because I look "professional." Or maybe just crazy... That being said, I usually use a cheapie $75U.S. because it is light and easy to carry. With these light jobs it sometimes helps to weigh them down with the camera bag. [Cable releases, self timers, and mirror lockup also help.] Sometimes I also carry a mono-pod. My recent Faire pictures were handheld, and the sharpness is lacking. I do own a Bogen #40-something. [Old one. Heavy aluminum tubes.] It's a great piece of equipment, but I very seldom carry it into the field. And even it benefits from the cable release, self timer, etc. I do somewhat lust after the new carbon composit jobs. I eagerly await hearing about any experiences. But right now, I think it's better spending the money on a couple 18-year olds (preferably cute) to help carry the equipment...