Cactus Wireless Shutter Release
After upgrading from a Nikon D70 to the D300, I found that the wireless IR remote used for the D70 is not compatible with the D300. This was frustrating because I used the remote quite often. Whether shooting portraits, still life or infrared, a remote is a great way to avoid camera shake.
While the wired remote releases offered by Nikon and others are very nice, they are impractical at times. Being tethered to the camera can present challenges and opportunities for camera shake as well as other headaches. Sometimes it’s nice to be next to the camera or subject, rather than behind the camera. Enter the Cactus Wireless Shutter Release sold by Gadget Infinity.
The total price, with shipping, came to about $34 and some change. The shipping estimate was for 15 days or so but it arrived much sooner than that (from Hong Kong). I immediately noticed the build quality is not bulletproof, but for the price this is fine. The receiver and transmitter each come with a battery which allows for immediate use. Also included is an info sheet explaining how to change the frequency/channels.
The unit works very well, although I haven’t tried doing a ‘distance test’. Being that it uses radio frequency (RF) rather than infrared (IR), it’s possible to trigger a camera from any angle, and even through obstructions such as reflectors, softboxes, umbrellas, etc. The feature that blew me away (which sometimes doesn’t take much) is being able to half-press (like the actual shutter button itself) to focus, then full-press to shoot. This had been a headache in regard to the D70 remote. Shooting with an IR remote is a bit of a gamble with the hope that the subject will be in focus, to be determined by the camera. My only gripe is that there’s no guide to assist with connecting the receiver to the camera. I can picture the small pins being bent at some point.
Overall I’d recommend this unit to anyone needing a wireless shutter release. Gadget Infinity has models for both Nikon and Canon, prices are reasonable and ordering through the site is quick and painless.
Pros
* Inexpensive
* RF instead of IR
* Remote focus and shutter release
* Lightweight and portable
* Works with many different camera models
Cons
* Somewhat flimsy build quality. May be wise to put gaffer tape over battery door of receiver as a precaution.
* Connecting receiver to camera can be tricky, bent pins a real possibility.
http://www.gadgetinfinity.com/home.php?cat=285
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