How to master handholding

Why risk compromising sharpness by taking the camera off a tripod? In a word, spontaneity. And responsiveness...

If you want to hand-hold telephotos, choose a shutter speed at least as fast as the length of the lens (perhaps one or two stops slower if you're using a Vibration Reduction or IS lens). Better still, use a monopod - it's still quicker than a tripod. Short lenses are more forgiving. Your chances improve by drawing in your breath, taking the picture straight away before wobble develops, then breathing out.

2. On bended knee
A bit wobblier as you try to stay balanced, but giving you more height. Still better than standing up straight.

3. The locked arm
Lifting your elbow and gripping your other arm by the wrist creates a surprisingly solid support to rest long lenses on.

4. Back to the wall
A brace for you, as well as the camera, having something to lean against greatly improve the chances of getting a sharp picture

5. Supporting roles
Equalling or surpassing tripod stability, a beanbag is the ideal brace, so long as there's somewhere to lie it.