Wacky tripods: If ninjas took photos, they'd use these

Finally, if none of these ker-azy tripods does it for you, you could make your own in true MacGuyver style. Say hello to the string monopod.

All you need is some cord or rope, and a hook with a screw that fits your tripod mount.

Simply attach one end of a length of cord -- at least your height plus a little more in length -- to the hook, or your tripod's detachable mounting, if it'll fit. Make a loop in the other end. Screw the hook into the tripod mount in your camera and hold it up to your eye. Adjust the length of the cord so you can put your foot in the loop and pull the cord taut when taking a photo.

The tautness of the cord reduces camera shake and also gives you the freedom to follow moving subjects, or recompose your shots rapidly. Get more detailed instructions from instructables.com. Don't say we never teach you nothing! Or link to interesting sites that actually do.