I feel like this is more of a miniature tripod than a selfie stick. It can hold your camera vertically or horizontally, and it comes with a rechargeable remote. I'm really enjoying this portable gadget, now that I know how to use it!It's well-made, versatile, and reasonably priced, but the description doesn't make it very clear what to expect. The instructions help, but it took awhile for me to work through them. Here are a few tips for getting started:*To open with one hand, hold the stick upright near the top and bang it on the ground or floor. I found it easier to just brace it from the top and push upwards with my palm.*Once the legs are spread, you can extend the selfie stick by pulling the metal rod straight out. If you don't need the tripod, just press the legs closed at this point.*When using the tripod, the camera angle can be changed by twisting the phone holder before adjusting the hinge. The hinge adjustment allows for either vertical or horizontal recording.*To easily close the tripod, grasp the white cylinder that surrounds the metal rod, and pull upwards. Then push the rod back in place.