When it comes to plein air painting, having the right equipment can make all the difference which is why when it comes to using a pochade box you have the best tripod for pochade box. A pochade box is an essential tool for any artist looking to paint outdoors, and one of the most important aspects of a pochade box setup is the tripod it’s mounted on. The best tripod for pochade box not only provides stability for your workspace but can also make it easier to adjust and maneuver your setup to capture the perfect scene.
With the many tripods available on the market, it can be difficult to find the right one for your pochade box. Factors to consider when selecting a tripod include weight, stability, and compatibility with your specific box.
In this article, we will explore some of the best tripods for pochade boxes that have proven to be reliable and efficient for artists.
So let’s dive in and help you find the 5 Best Tripod for Pochade Box for your outdoor painting adventures.
Top 5 Best Tripods for Pochade Boxes
Finding the ideal tripod to pair with your pochade box is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable plein air painting experience. Here are the top 5 tripods for pochade boxes that artists recommend:
Neewer Travel Tripod Combo – This lightweight and sturdy tripod is perfect for outdoor use, offering easy setup and a compact design.
New Guerrilla Painter® Artist’s Field Tripod™ – Designed specifically for plein air artists, this tripod is durable, stable, and easy to adjust.
Sienna Tripod – This high-quality tripod features adjustable legs and a swivel head, ensuring a comfortable painting experience.
Soho Urban Artist Aluminum Tripod – Made of lightweight aluminum, this tripod is suitable for both cameras and pochade boxes, and fits various dimensions with adjustable height and width.
Etsy: Pollex Palette Professional Easel + Palette – This handmade tripod is crafted from high-quality materials, offering a unique and customizable option for plein air painters.
When choosing a tripod for your pochade box, it’s essential to prioritize stability, durability, and ease of use. These five tripods have been highly recommended by fellow artists and will greatly enhance your plein air painting experience.
Types of Pochade Boxes
There are several types of pochade boxes available on the market, each designed to cater to specific needs and preferences of plein air artists. The common goal is to provide a convenient and portable solution to carry painting supplies, but the features and functions can vary.
Some popular types of pochade boxes include:
Basic Pochade Boxes
These are compact and lightweight, featuring a simple structure that accommodates a painting panel and a palette. An example of this type is the New Wave Pochade Box.
Plein Air Painting Pochade Boxes
These are designed specifically for outdoor painting, offering enhanced durability and functionality. They may include features such as storage compartments or additional palettes. The Meeden Ultimate Pochade Box is an example.
Pochade Boxes with Integrated Easels
These boxes combine a pochade box and an easel, providing a stable platform for painting while still remaining portable. A well-known example is the Soho Urban Artist French Easel Pochade Box.
Pochade Boxes for Storage Space
Designed for artists who require ample space for their supplies, these boxes offer additional compartments and larger storage capacity. The Creative Mark Pochade Box fits this category.
Pochade Boxes for Oil Paints
These boxes are specifically designed for oil painters, with features that cater to the needs of artists using oil-based mediums. The Sienna Plein Air Pochade Box is an example of this type.
All In One Pochade Boxes
These all in one Pochade boxes are fantastic but need to be paired up with a very sturdy tripod as they are quite heavy and boxy. It will fit with most standard camera tripods.
Choosing the right type of pochade box depends on the individual artist’s requirements, such as preferred medium, painting style, and storage needs. It’s important to consider these factors before making a purchase.
Pochade Tripod Features to Consider
When selecting a tripod for your pochade box, there are several important features to consider before making a decision. These factors can significantly impact the stability and ease of use of your setup while painting outdoors.
One aspect to look at is the material used for the tripod. A medium-duty carbon fiber tripod, as mentioned on Portraits by Simon Bland, is lightweight and durable, making it an ideal choice for plein air painters.
The weight capacity of a tripod is also crucial, so look for one that can comfortably support the weight of your pochade box and painting supplies.
Another factor to consider is the type of head on the tripod. A ball mount head allows for smooth and easy adjustments, which is particularly helpful when painting outdoors.
In addition to this, make sure that the tripod is compatible with a universal tripod mount, as seen on the SoHo Scout Pochade Box.
Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of tripod accessories. Items such as quick release plates and replacement handles, as found on Judsons Art Outfitters, can improve the ease of use and efficiency of your pochade box setup. Having the right accessories can greatly enhance your overall painting experience.
How to Attach a Pochade Box to a Tripod
Attaching a pochade box to a tripod is essential for many plein air artists to work comfortably outdoors. Follow these simple steps to set up your pochade box with a tripod:
- Find the ideal balance point of your pochade box by balancing it on your fingers or a small block of wood. Do this with the lid opened and holding a panel, as if you were painting[source].
- Most pochade boxes come with a 1/4 20 bolt for attaching a quick release plate. Purchase a quick release plate if your tripod does not already have one. They can be found on websites like eBay and are compatible with most tripods [source].
- Attach the quick release plate to your pochade box by securing the bolt in the right spot. This will help minimize any twisting of the tripod head when in use.
- Mount the pochade box onto the tripod by attaching the quick release plate to the tripod head.
Some artists may prefer to use an adapter bracket for better mounting. These can be purchased from art supply stores, like Ken Bromley Art Supplies, and installed on the underside of your pochade box.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a stable and convenient setup for your plein air painting sessions with your pochade box and tripod.
Best Tripod for Pochade Box – Wrap up!
To wrap things up, finding the perfect tripod for your pochade box is a matter of personal preference and budget. The Sienna Pochade Box, which is considered the best overall pochade box, does not come with a tripod. However, there are several alternatives available in the market.
To ensure stability and longevity, it is essential to select a tripod that can handle the weight of your pochade box without compromising on stability or durability.
Simon Bland suggests that pan-and-tilt heads may have difficulty with the extra torque created by a pochade box, so it might be better to consider other options like ball heads or camera tripods with a screw thread specifically designed for pochade boxes.
When browsing for the most suitable tripod, bear in mind your specific requirements, such as weight, size, and painting style. As one artist on WetCanvas states, if you desire a lighter setup, you may want to opt for a panel holding mast and a tripod shelf instead of a pochade box.
Comparing features, reading reviews, and trying out different tripod models before making a final decision will significantly improve your plein air painting experience.
