We all hate to ask strangers on the street to take our pictures. It's awkward and the photos never end up looking that great -- at least I always get people who can't hold a camera still. Plus, the whole time, you are thinking "dude, you better not drop my camera!" And we all do what you see here -- take the picture on our own, extend our arm as far as we can and squeeze together to get everyone in. Yea right! Not ideal.

I was happy to come across this nifty pocket-sized gadget called the QuikPod. It's a handheld tripod that can go as far as 18 inches out and easily attaches to any camera or camcorder. You're probably questioning its sturdiness, but since you screw the tripod into the socket of the camera, the camera actually feels very stable on the tripod. It's lightweight too and compact (only 7.5 inches when retracted), so it's perfect when you're traveling. To take a picture, just set your camera on self-timer. There's also a handy little mirro on it so you can see youself (it will be right underneath your camera). It is pretty small, but really you may not even need it after you take several pictures and get a feel for the QuikPod's reach.

No more cutting off a friend from the photo (boy do I hate that!) or missing a photo opportunity when I'm alone or with a buddy. You know I love it! Being so short, I can shoot above the crowds at a concert. What a fun gift too for any fellow shutterbug. It's only $17.90 at Amazon. Or you can get the Deluxe Kit at Quikpod.com for only $24.95. QuikPod also just released a version for a Digital SLR cameras for all you hardcore photographers.

See what's new in digital cameras on AOL Shopping!