We just need to get this thread renamed to "photography equipment"
Another handy gadget is a monopod. Less hassle than a tripod, easy to move around with you, and gives additional stability to the camera, which would be especially useful when also trying to keep an umbrella steady. They telescope, so they can be tall or short, AND they usually have a quick-release lever so it's easy to take the camera completely off for those photos closer to the ground.
