Tripods are either portable or super sturdy. But 3 Legged Thing just launched a modular tripod system with swappable legs to replace tabletop, travel, studio, and filmmaking tripods in one go

Tripods are commonly tailored to specific photography scenarios, leading many professionals to possess multiple tripods for travel, stability, tabletop, and filmmaking. However, 3 Legged Thing's latest innovation is a modular tripod system that consolidates these various tripods into one. Named the James and Jason, this new system consists of tripods with swappable components, including legs, canopies, flat plates, rings, heads, and feet. (Image credit: 3 Legged Thing)

The primary advantage of this modular system is that creators no longer need to own several tripods for distinct purposes. The James and Jason are standard-sized tripods, but their versatility allows them to transform into travel or studio tripods through the use of swappable legs. Additionally, these legs can double as monopods and boom poles. (Image credit: 3 Legged Thing)

The system's core component is the canopy. Both models can support up to 30 kg (66 lbs), but one is optimized for portability, while the other emphasizes strength and durability. Both canopies feature an extra accessory mount for attaching lighting or microphone arms. The tripods come with three distinct swappable leg options, all constructed with carbon fiber.

These five-section legs fold down to 42.5 cm (16.7 inches) and expand to a maximum height of 123 cm (48.4 inches). The three-section legs, intended for maximum height and stability, reach 154 cm (60.6 inches) but may not fit in a carry-on bag. The four-section legs offer a balanced compromise between the two. (Image credit: 3 Legged Thing)

Adjustable to various angles, the five-section legs employ a trigger-pull design that enables easy use even with gloves. The tripods are released with three footing options for different terrains, and the canopy and feet can be used separately for tabletop tripod functions. The legs can also be utilized independently as monopods or light boom poles. (Image credit: 3 Legged Thing)

The modular tripod system also launches with a newly designed head called the Airhed Orbit. This ball-style head features a single control for leveling, adjusting, and locking the camera in place. The modular design enables creators to dismantle the tripods for maintenance and cleaning. With various setups possible, 3 Legged Thing offers several bundles for the tactical tripods, including basic setups with the canopy and feet and bundles with multiple components.

3 Legged Thing is launching the James and Jason through Kickstarter, where the campaign has already exceeded its initial funding goal. Customers can purchase the tripod system for up to 20-25 percent less than the estimated retail price, with pledges starting at £269 (approximately $365 / AU$506) for a canopy and legs, £669 (about $907 / AU$1,257) for a kit with all three leg variations, and an additional £152 ($207 / AU$286) for the new Airhed Orbit head.