Products I Use & Recommend
In my classes I will often use and display various accessories, apps, books and more. Often we are talking about accessories like tripods, adapters and more.
On this page I am displaying the products that I use and recommend.
Please know that I’m generally, I’m a pretty frugal guy. When I shop for products, I seek tools and accessories that serve the need but are not overpriced. I don’t need the high-priced brands. Instead, I opt for products that provide good value.
It’s also why I never look for accessories at the Apple store or my cellular phone provider. I just believe that better value is available at other retailers or online.
Here is information about my buying decisions and recommendations. The links will take you directly to the products on the Amazon, Best Buy or Target websites.
I chuckled as I was contemplating my recommendation for a conventional camera tripod to use with my iPhone or iPad. That is because I have purchased multiple used tripods from my neighborhood thrift store. I recall the price as $5 for a couple of pretty sturdy tripods. So you might look at your local Goodwill, Savers, Unique or other thrift stores as a source for your bigger tripods. You might save anywhere from 30 to $75 compared to new models on Amazon. There’s nothing wrong with a little frugality! If you would like to find a basic tripod, this model from Amazon is pretty affordable and also includes an smartphone adapter. Amazon Link Gorillapod is the flexible tripod that I own and have been very pleased with its performance. Best Buy Link It’s flexible legs allow you to set your tripod with your iPhone on uneven surfaces or even hanging over the back of a chair. It includes an adapter for your smartphone and can also be used with other camera devices. It is also easy to pack for travel. Community member Katharine recommends a more affordable version of a flexible tripod available at Target. It is called the Tzumi ONAIR Selfie Tripod Stick. At $15, it includes the tripod, smartphone adapter and bluetooth shutter control. Target.com Link Thanks Katharine! This is a simple adapter that simply squeezes your smartphone for mounting it on your tripod. The one feature that caught my attention and have used a couple of times, is that you can stand up a phone upright without using a tripod. This is a bluetooth device that acts as a simple shutter button. If you have your iPhone/iPad set in a tripod and you can take photos while standing in the back row of your family pose. My only comment about the product is to not forget to turn off the switch when you are finished. Otherwise you will go through batteries. Here is the basic mini tripod that can easily travel with you in a bag or purse. It words best to hold your iPhone on a flat even surface. Please note that this tripod does not come with a smartphone adapter so a product like the WizGear Universal Smartphone Holder is a necessary complement if you wish to use it with your smartphone. OK. You are not going to buy an Apple Watch as a photo accessory. You are going to buy it for its health, fitness, safety and communication functions. However, when you have an Apple Watch, use it to view the iPhone camera image, set a shutter time and take the photo. It is perfect to grab those timer photos when you iPhone is attached to a tripod. It is an awesome photography accessory. Apple Link I will travel with this combination selfie stick plus tripod stand that works with your iPhone. Amazon Link. It starts as a selfie stick with a Bluetooth shutter control. But it has a retractable tripod base so it will function as a short tripod. The product functions nicely as a selfie stick. It does not offer the stability and reach of a normal photo tripod. However for the occasional tripod use, it is a great package for travel 
Tripod
Flexible Tripod for iPhone
WizGear Universal Smartphone Holder Tripod Adapter for Bigger Smartphones
CamKix Camera Shutter Remote Control with Bluetooth Wireless Technology
Amazon Basics Lightweight Mini Tripod
Remote Shutter Using Apple Watch
Selfie Stick & Tripod Stand for iPhone
I appreciate feedback about great products from my members and community. If you have a product you really like, send me your recommendation.
Or if you contact us if you have feedback about one of these products.
Use the Contact-Us form to send a note.