Photo sandbag alternatives

Stands and tripods are a hazard of the work environment when you’re a photographer… but even the toughest and heaviest may get a little shaky unless they are weighted down.

This job usually falls to specialized sandbags, which you can find from high end photo stores for $30-50, or more. The problem with sand is that if it leaks, it’s messy. Even the best vinyl or cordura bags are great, but there’s always a chance.

A photographer (who shall remain nameless) recently gave me a tip. Use a regular (but tough) tube sock, and fill it with BB’s like you can get at Walmart or any sporting goods store. A BB filled sock will weigh quite a bit, isn’t messy, and can easily be attached to anything if you attach a hook to the middle. Another idea is to use pea gravel, or even pinto beans or rice (though that may not be a great idea if you’re using it outside where it could get wet).

Also clever are the $8 wrist or ankle weights you can get for exercising, which often have metal loops and velcro just made for attaching to a light stand or tripod.

All great ideas… and if you have any other good ideas for a weighted bag, let us know.