Camera supports, devices to prevent or limit camera movement during exposure. One such, described in October 1839, was attributed to Baron Armand Pierre de Séguier (1803-76). Supports have remained essential accessories ever since, although smaller cameras and more sensitive photographic materials permitting faster shutter speeds have made their use less necessary.
From the 1840s studio stands were employed by all professional photographers. They were usually wheeled wooden frames or tables on which the camera was mounted, allowing it to be moved easily in the studio while remaining steady during exposure. By the 1880s elaborate stands were available with side tables for dark slides, accessories, and studio props. Adjustments by rack and pinion, screw, or pulley mechanisms allowed vertical, lateral, and angular adjustment of the camera table to either obviate or supplement the need for camera movements.
Widely used by outdoor photographers from the later 1840s was the tripod, with adjustable wooden legs allowing it to be raised or lowered; folding models for easier portability were introduced from the 1870s. Since the 1880s portable (hand) cameras have usually incorporated a tripod mounting socket, with simple box cameras the principal exception. With the introduction of metal from the early 1900s, tripods became lighter, and collapsible. From the 1920s ball-and-socket heads permitted a greater range of adjustments. Specialized heads for stereoscopic and panoramic photography, and table tripods, were also introduced. Monopods, gun-stocks, chains, and clamps fitted with mounting screws have been designed to give additional support for cameras, while beanbags provide an alternative method where a tripod is not practical.
— Michael Pritchard
