How does Scott Kivowitz’s method of using surroundings and a Leica M9 outperform traditional tripod usage?

Scott’s approach and tripod use are complementary, not competing methods, so it is not accurate to say one “outperforms” the other overall. Each excels in different situations.

With the Leica M9, Scott often travels light (for example, on the Newport cliff walk) using one small lens and relying on surroundings—walls, railings, or the ground—for stability. That approach:

• Keeps the kit light and fast for walking and reacting to scenes
• Encourages creative angles and compositions
• Works well in good light or when slower shutter speeds are not required

A traditional tripod, which Scott also uses extensively (Really Right Stuff, 3 Legged Thing, Manfrotto, etc.), is superior when:

• Shooting long exposures or panoramas where true stability and repeatable framing matter
• Working with heavier cameras or complex setups (panoramic clamps, nodal slides)
• Doing studio-like work where precise framing must stay locked in

So Scott’s “surroundings + M9” method outperforms a tripod in portability and spontaneity, while the tripod outperforms it in maximum sharpness, consistency, and control.

What kinds of subjects do you usually photograph: travel scenes, landscapes, portraits, or something else?