Abstract: A support stand for a camera or other optical device comprises a head portion supported by support legs comprising first and second telescopically related tube portions, the inner tube portion forming the upper part of the respective leg and the outer tube portion forming the lower part. A fixing device for locking the tube portions of each leg relative to each other comprises an actuating rod which extends within the tube portions and which carries at its lower end first and second clamping cone members which taper in the same direction and which are co-operable with respective pressure elements surrounding same.