Tripods versus Image Stabilization; The Tripod:
I think it is very important for a serious photographer to own and use a quality tripod. The primary reason for using a tripod is to support the camera and keep it motionless during the exposure. A motionless camera means sharper images.
Bogen-Manfrotto and Gitzo are the two most popular tripod manufacturers. Other manufacturers include Benbo, Slik, Linhof, and Velbon.
Originally, camera tripods were made out of hardwoods. Wood is arguably the best material for a tripod because of its stability (due to mass) and its vibration absorbing properties, but it is heavy and cumbersome. After World War II, aluminum became far more popular than wood because of its low cost and light weight, and compactness. Since the mid 90s, carbon fiber has become increasingly popular because of its very light weight and stiffness.
A longtime favorite of mine is the very popular Bogen 3021 Series. This is a lightweight, moderately priced aluminum tripod that will support up to 6 kg or 13.2 lbs. The 3021 series is tall enough to bring the camera to eye level without using the center column. Because of its popularity, it is available in a variety of colors and configurations.
For many years I worked with the sturdy and rugged Bogen 3047 Three Way Pan Head mounted on my 3021 legs. Bogen has replaced the 3047 with a totally new design, the 808RC4. The 3047 is still a great head and it is readily available in the used equipment marketplace.
When I switched from a medium format camera to a Canon Rebel XT in 2005, I also switched from a pan head to a ball head. I use the Bogen Midi 488RCO ball head. At under $110, this head is a remarkable value in the world of ballheads, where a lot of heads are priced at $350 to $750. The Midi is certainly adequate to support an APS-C camera like the Rebel with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS lens. It works smoothly and positively, too.
Photo Techniques, Tricks, Tips, Tutorials, Tools, and Taboos:
