FIGURE C

This tripod helps get the shot for a professional photographer who uses a wheelchair. Click picture for a larger image.

He attached a DAESSY locking swing-away mount from Daedalus Technologies to a standard tripod with its legs removed. Levers attached to the tripod's controls make them easier to maneuver. At $823, this solution would likely appeal to professional photographers more than casual hobbyists.

Adapted cameras
As seen in Figure D, Orcca Technology also offers simple digital cameras adapted for operation through a single switch.

FIGURE D

Several switch-adapted cameras are available from Orcca Technology. Click picture for a larger image.

These provide great options for children with disabilities or adults who have cognitive or multiple disabilities. A two-switch system in which one switch pans and the other switch tilts is also available.

Get your gorilla on
Although not specifically designed for photographers with disabilities, a great alternative to the traditional stiff-legged tripod is the Gorillapod by Joby, a tripod with legs that bend and attach to almost anything. This handy camera holder comes in three sizes. Figure E shows the mutant, spider-like Gorillapod in action.

FIGURE E

Gorillapods hang around anywhere you need them.

The Original Gorillapod fits most standard digital cameras, the Gorillapod SLR works with lightweight SLR cameras and video cameras weighing up to 1.75 lbs, and the Gorillapod SLR Zoom holds professional tripod heads and SLR cameras with zoom lenses up to 6.6 lbs. These could easy attach to a wheelchair or any stable object near the subject of interest.

Webcams and more
For those of us desperate for hands-free pictures, webcams come in handy. Since I control my computer with my feet, webcams have been my most reliable picture-taking option. Wired webcams, like Logitech's QuickCam, have long USB cables and bases that swivel to the desired angle, and wireless webcams can be placed in a variety of venues.

I just use the accompanying software to snap pictures from my desktop or laptop, using my toe on the mouse. But at resolutions of only 1MP, I would love to be able to take higher quality photos.

With a digital cameral that can accept remote control and a Gorrilapod over my shoulder, I may turn into a shutterbug after all. I may not even miss my handles and double viewfinder.

G. Denise Lance, Ph.D. is a researcher, online instructor, and freelance writer who often covers assistive technology.