Brando’s 3-Axis SLR Bubble Level
Brando has released a 3-Axis Bubble Level cube for digital SLR’s. The cube attaches to the hot shoe mount on any digital camera and allows users to check how level their shot is from every possible angle before they hit that shutter button.
I have to say my first reaction to this product was, “Cool.” The level runs just $11, which is pretty affordable as digital camera accessories go, and I like my shots to be just as level as the next guy’s, so it is pretty useful. The more I started thinking about, the less cool (or at least practical) the whole idea was.
If you’re shooting photos handheld, chances are you’re looking through the cameras viewfinder. Your eyes should probably remain on the viewfinder until you snap your shot as well, not on your spiffy new level. If you’re looking through the viewfinder and are taking a picture that is so absurdly off level you need one, then you probably have bigger problems.
For tripod shots the level could theoretically come more in handy. With a tripod shot your subject is typically pretty stationary, and the level could help you make sure you have your camera set up perfectly straight. Then again, if you have any kind of decent tripod, I would even venture to say ANY tripod, then you probably have a level built-in to the tripod itself. No need to put another one on top of your camera to do the same thing.
All that said I would love to see digital SLR makers start putting accelerometers in their cameras so that you could have a level right on the screen of your viewfinder. A level isn’t a bad idea, but a level attached to the hot show on top of your camera probably is.
Am I way out in left field here? Do any of you photographers out there see a real world use for Brando’s level?
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