How can you take photos without touching your camera?

1 Use a remote control

One of the easiest and most versatile ways to take photos without touching your camera is to use a remote control. A remote control is a device that allows you to wirelessly or wiredly communicate with your camera and trigger the shutter. There are different types of remote controls, such as infrared, radio, or Bluetooth, and they may have different features, such as timers, intervalometers, or exposure settings. You can use a remote control to take photos from a distance, or to set up a tripod and join the scene yourself.

2 Use a self-timer

Another simple way to take photos without touching your camera is to use the self-timer function. Most cameras have a built-in self-timer that lets you set a delay between pressing the shutter button and taking the photo. This can be useful for avoiding camera shake, especially when using slow shutter speeds or long lenses, or for taking self-portraits or group shots. You can usually adjust the duration of the self-timer, from a few seconds to a few minutes, and some cameras also allow you to take multiple shots with one press.

3 Use a smartphone app

A more advanced and interactive way to take photos without touching your camera is to use a smartphone app. Some cameras have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity that allows you to pair them with your smartphone and use an app to control them remotely. You can use the app to see a live view of the scene, adjust the settings, zoom, focus, and take the photo. You can also use the app to review and transfer the photos to your phone. This can be handy for shooting in difficult angles, or for being more creative and spontaneous.

4 Use voice commands

A less common but fun way to take photos without touching your camera is to use voice commands. Some cameras have a built-in microphone that can recognize voice commands and perform certain actions, such as taking a photo, starting a video, or switching modes. You can use voice commands to take hands-free photos, or to capture moments without interrupting them. However, voice commands may not work well in noisy environments, or if your camera does not support your language.

5 Use a motion sensor

A more specialized and creative way to take photos without touching your camera is to use a motion sensor. A motion sensor is a device that detects movement and sends a signal to your camera to take a photo. You can use a motion sensor to capture wildlife, sports, or other dynamic subjects that are hard to predict or follow. You can also use a motion sensor to create interesting effects, such as light trails or star trails. You will need to attach the motion sensor to your camera with a cable or a wireless receiver, and adjust the sensitivity and duration of the sensor.

6 Use a sound trigger

A similar but different way to take photos without touching your camera is to use a sound trigger. A sound trigger is a device that detects sound and sends a signal to your camera to take a photo. You can use a sound trigger to capture events that are triggered by sound, such as fireworks, lightning, or balloons popping. You can also use a sound trigger to create artistic images, such as water droplets or splashes. You will need to connect the sound trigger to your camera with a cable or a wireless receiver, and adjust the volume and delay of the trigger.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?