How can you take photos without touching or moving the camera? There are several ways to shoot without using the shutter button. Some cameras are capable of using one or more methods, but what are they?
The first method is the self-timer, which you set in the camera’s drive settings, where you will generally find a choice of a ten-second or two-second delay. Cameras beep or flash an indicator, which becomes more urgent when the shutter is about to release.
The next option is some form of camera remote release, which can either be wired or wireless remotes. For wired remotes, cameras use either the N3 or E3 types of connector. The N3 connector is usually found on the more advanced cameras, and the E3 for most of the rest. There are simple remote switches for both N3 and E3 connections, along with timer controllers that can be programmed for extended delays, taking time-lapses and long exposures.
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There are also wireless remotes, which either employ a simple infrared beam to release the shutter or a more modern Bluetooth signal. Infrared requires line of sight in order to be received by the camera, while Bluetooth can trip the shutter even when there are not facing each other (or are impeded by obstructions).
Most cameras these days can be controlled using a companion app for your smart device, which pairs with your camera via local Wi-Fi connection. And unlike the other options here, these apps transmit the Live View from your camera and enable you to make changes to your exposure, focus, and sometimes even enable you to zoom in and out.
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