Gorillapod was designed by Joby and released in 2006 as an alternative flexible tripod for cameras.

Joby develops innovative accessories for the photography and personal communications markets.

Quote from Joby:

“Available in three sizes and 40 countries, the Gorillapod features prehensile legs that bend and rotate 360 degrees to secure a digital camera to virtually any surface. It is the ideal accessory for active, on-the-go photographers”.

As all photographers know in order to get clear, sharp pictures it is necessary to steady the camera to reduce camera shake. The answer to this, as we all know, is to use a tripod.

Tripods are clumsy things and awkward to carry and personally I tend to carry my tripod only when I am specifically going out on my own to take photographs and nothing else.

The occasions that come to mind when I think Gorillapod is a good alternative to no tripod is those times when you are going about your day-to-day business, carrying a camera “just-in-case” that perfect shot appears.

I find that a Gorillapod in my backpack or bag is a great alternative to no tripod. Needless to say it is also a very handy addition to the tripod as well.

So, what exactly is the Gorillapod?

As explained by Joby:

Each Gorillapod is made up of 30 or more fully articulating ball-and-socket joints. You can bend and twist them into any shape, and they’ll always keep your camera steady!

Soft rings and rubberized feet prevent your Gorillapod from slipping in even the toughest environments.

The Joby Gorillapod firmly secures your camera to just about anything — anywhere and everywhere! Unlike traditional tripods, Gorillapods do not require a level or elevated surface for you to take the perfect shot.

That explains the Gorillapod exactly.

Originally, the Gorillapodoriginal , which supports 275gms (9.7oz)was created for compact digital cameras and was small enough to fit in your pocket.

There are now three models ranging from the above through to Gorillapod SLR which can support 800gms (175 lbs) and is meant for SLR and video cameras and on to the Gorillapod SLR-ZOOM which supports 3kg (6.6lbs) and supports professional tripod heads and SLR cameras with zoom lenses.

I like this concept and embrace this new, and very useful addition to the photographers equipment.

Joby GP3-01EN Gorillapod SLR-Zoom Flexible Tripod for Digital SLR Cameras + Accessory Kit