How to Level a Tripod for Panoramic Photos

• 1). Set up your tripod, making sure it is firmly stable.
  
  
• 2). Level your tripod with the horizon. This is most easily accomplished if your tripod and ball head both have built-in bubble spirit levels. Simply center the bubble within the circle on both the tripod and ball head and make sure the bubble remains centered as you turn your camera slightly with each successive shot.
  
  
• 3). Use a separate spirit bubble level. If your tripod and ball head do not come with built-in bubble spirit levels, you can buy a freestanding one. Insert it into the camera's flash hot shoe and follow the steps above to maintain a level position.
  
  
• 4). Upload your photos to your computer, make any necessary edits and, finally, use software to stitch the series together into a panoramic view. Software is available at a variety of prices. PanoramaPlus 3 (compatible with Windows) costs around $30. Versions of Adobe Photoshop (CS3 and higher) also include a function for creating panoramas.
  
  
• 5). Experiment! As with any new skill, practice makes perfect. The more you use your equipment, the more accomplished your final results will be.