BlueSLR for Remote Shutter Release

It looks like a Canadian company called BlueSLR has created a remote shutter-release with a unique twist - it pairs your iOS device (iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad) to your camera via a bluetooth dongle. From looking at the product page, it appears that it will trigger the shutter up to 300 feet away - not sure we need that much distance for Pole-Aerial-Photography, but hey, the extra range is always welcome.

The one feature-omission of this product is the lack of image-reviewing capability - it would be a dream-come-true if it could transmit the photo back to the iOS device, maybe that's a feature it'll see in the future.

The other reputable iOS remote app is DSLR Camera Remote by onOne Software, that one works when the camera is connected to a computer, which is then connected to the same wifi network the iOS device is connected to - a little complicated, eh? Both of these products are attempting to bridge the gap that our camera manufacturers are leaving out - built-in wifi or bluetooth. Instead of paying a fortune to add wifi to our cameras with an adapter (which doesn't even seem to transfer quickly enough), please just build it in with a physical switch to turn it on or off - is it really that difficult/expensive?

BlueSLR's dongle can pre-ordered here for $149 (with free shipping at the moment) and their app can be downloaded in the App Store here for free. Currently, Nikon is the only supported DSLR brand and be sure to selected the correct dongle when purchasing as they trigger the shutter differently depending on the camera model.

PiXel LV-W1 for Pole-Aerial-Photography

I came across this newfangled device the other week and did a double-take - a serious tool for pole-aerial-photography that would actually improve my workflow? Possibly…

The PiXel LV-W1 is basically made up of two components, the transmitter and the receiver, with a few cords in between. The transmitter hooks up to your DSLR and shoots its live-view image over to the receiver via the 2.4 GHz spectrum, at which point you compose your shot and remotely trigger the shutter. All of this can be done up to 80 meters (262 feet) away, but I doubt that would necessary for PAP. It should be noted that you do need a camera that supports live-view and has a shutter release input to use this device, as that's how you get the video feed to the receiver and trigger the shutter.

Personally, I see a great deal of potential in a gadget like this, especially for pole-aerial-photography. Being able to see exactly what your camera sees when it's 15, 20, even 30 feet up in the air would be incredible - it takes the 'guess-and-check' approach out of the equation. Sure, there are solutions out there now that allow you to achieve similar results, but none of them have the range, the live-view feed, the 3" screen, the shutter release, and the rechargeable battery - unless you build it yourself, of course.

Update: Michael James of the hdriblog.com has directed us to a few other products that accomplish this task in a similar manner. Each is unique in how they do it, so be sure to check them out and pick the one that fits your workflow best.

Here's a rundown of the specs:

• LV-W1 image transmit is using 2.4GHz frequency channel, 3 specific channels.
• Shutter control is using 433MHz frequency channel (available to use another frequency channel). 3 specific channels.
• Operating distance range is up to 80M.
• The display is protected by coating; it’s not easy to get scratch.
• 3inch TFT display, adjustable the brightness .
• Resolution: 960 X 240
• 3.7V 1200mAh lithium battery. Working hour: Transmitter --- 8 hours or above.              Receiver ---   5hours or above.
• The receiver is usable to connect the camera directly, just like CT-122. Use VD-936 (optional) to connect and transfer the live view to PC.
• Compatible for camera which included AV Output and shutter release socket.
• Charging method: via charger or USB cable for charging  the battery inside the device.

You can check out the PiXel LV-W1 here and purchase one here.