I would say I use a tripod about 75% of the time. If I'm out and about I'll shoot handheld, if the light is good enough, until I find the view I want then I pop it on the tripod to make sure I get the absolute best shot I can. My tripod has a quick release plate which lives permanantly on the camera so it only takes a couple of seconds to attach. If I'm just going for a walk around the fields around my home then I leave the camera on the tripod and carry the whole lot, it's just as easy. :)

The other thing that goes hand in hand with the tripod is another little gadget I recently purchased - a hotshoe spirit-level. Perfect for getting those horizons level first time. Essential when you live in an area of the country that's as flat as mine, lol.

• Andy

www.natural-photo.co.uk

"Dodging and burning are steps to take care of mistakes God made in establishing tonal relationships.  ~Ansel Adams"