Tripod - the 3 legs helper

tripod! we know we need it but we left it at home. We bring it out but never set it up to use it. 

Personally I would rate tripod as one of the most important equipment that I use and own, even more than the lens. I use it for macro photography, low light photography, portrait photography. So how do you select one?

Some of my thoughts here :

1. get a reasonable good one..avoid those that cost S$20-50.
2. get a metal one.. avoid plastic legs tripod
3. get one that the 3 legs can be open independently for better control.
4. get one that can go really low.
5. get a good ball head to go with it

Lastly, buy it, bring it out and use it!