Compact camera options for a Linux/gphoto2 photo booth with remote zoom control
Asked 3/11/2016
6 views
2 answers
0
I’m replacing a Canon PowerShot G10 in a DIY event photo booth. The booth runs Linux with a custom Python UI and uses gphoto2 for camera control over USB. I need a compact-style camera that can be remotely controlled, ideally including zoom, exposure settings, capture, and image transfer.
Important requirements:
- 24–28mm equivalent wide end, extending beyond 50mm
- USB remote control for zoom, aperture, shutter speed, ISO, capture, and image transfer
- Works with free Linux drivers; gphoto2 support preferred
- Retains settings or allows remote control of white balance, flash options, etc.
- Hot shoe for flash triggering
- RAW support if possible
- AC power adapter available
- Ability to disable automatic shutdown
Are there any current compact cameras that fit this well, or is the practical choice limited to specific Canon PowerShot models and/or CHDK-supported cameras?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
10y ago
2 Answers
1
Since the following has been languishing as a comment to the question for almost a year, I'm copying it as an answer and have set it to community wiki:
You might look into using CHDK for remote control of a Canon P&S camera. CHDK appears to be available for newer Canon models in the G series. Check out this link about remote functionality. – Wesley R. Elsberry
Originally by user15871. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user15871
8y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Based on the answers, your practical options are very limited if remote zoom over USB is a hard requirement.
The key point is that, in gphoto2’s documented remote-control support, zoom control appears to be available only on certain Canon PowerShot models. DSLRs/SLRs generally won’t help here because they do not have motorized power zooms—you zoom them manually.
So if you need all of these together:
- Linux/gphoto2 control
- USB remote capture/transfer
- remote zoom
then the realistic path is to stay with compatible Canon PowerShot cameras.
One answer specifically suggests looking at CHDK for Canon point-and-shoot models, including newer G-series cameras. CHDK may expand remote-control possibilities on supported Canon compacts, so it’s worth checking model-by-model compatibility.
In short: there doesn’t seem to be a broad range of compact cameras from multiple brands that meet your needs. The best candidates are Canon PowerShot models listed by gphoto2 as supporting remote zoom, plus CHDK-supported Canon compacts if you’re willing to use that route.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI10y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
Can I improve remote capture frame rate on a Canon PowerShot G10 beyond what gPhoto2 achieves?
Can a Panasonic DMC-FZ100 be remotely controlled from a computer over USB?
How can I tether and remotely control a Canon G10 from a Mac?
Does the Canon PowerShot SX520 HS support tethered shooting over USB?
What should I look for in a compact camera for better low-light photos and flash performance?