Frustrated on a trip to Paris when he wanted to take pictures with his family, Michael Daoud couldn’t get a decent background. Lo and behold, the XShot was born. The telescopic rod attaches to most compact digital single-shot and video cams with a built-in thumb screw. Adjust the angle, set the timer, extend the device, and shoot away. Daoud claims that it has a reach of over 3 feet and can handle up to a 5 person shot. The XShot weighs only 3.9 oz. and will fit in your pocket when not in use. We think, aside from the ingenuity, the best part is the affordable $24.95 price tag.