[badpickev]

ok try this one. mount the camera to the tripod. thats right remove the head. i am guessing that either the tripod is no longer sturdy or the head is not. by mounting the camera or lens directly to the tripod we should get our answer. a few thoughts on this. check all the fittings on the tripod. make sure none of the bolts or nuts have come loose. make sure the tripods is on secure footing. i know it sounds silly, but you never know when your son will use your tripod for batting practice.

i keep thinking on how the camera mounted was less secure. you might have an issue with the mounting plate being secure, or securing tight to the camera and or lens.