Alternative to the Time Controller... ?

[KevNJ]

I was thinking of buying the Timer Remote Controller ( TC-80N3 ), it runs ~$130 @ B&H. Was thinking of using this for night or macro shots. Couldn't I just use the Interface Cable that came with the 20d, hook that up to my laptop and use the supplied EOS software to do the same ?

Im sure with macro I could but with taking night photos, of the stars, would the light the laptop gives off mess with the photo any ? For night shots the camera would be mounted on a tripod with the laptop on a stand behind and sitting lower then the camera itself. Would the light from the laptop effect the photos ?

[lancea]

I'm sure you'd be using manual exposure, so wouldn't have any problem with light getting into the viewfinder. Otherwise, the light from the laptop would have to reflect off something to get into your shot. If it was a foggy night it would be worst, but I imagine you wouldn't be taking star shots in that case ;-) Just for convenience though, you'd want a longer cable than the one that comes with the 20D.

I've got the timer remote - and it's a great little gadget. I just wish I could find a lot more uses for it!

[rent]

how about the RS-80N3 ($50) remote switch? the only difference is that you have to personally release the switch when the exposure is done.

-alex

[iSellJerseyShore]

how about the RS-80N3 ($50) remote switch? the only difference is that you have to personally release the switch when the exposure is done.

-alex



Do you always have to release the shutter after the exposure is done? From the way the description sounds, it seems like the button operates just like the actual shutter button on the camera itself.....


-iSellJerseyShore