How can I trigger two Sony A77 II cameras at the same time?
Asked 9/29/2014
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2 answers
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I want to fire two Sony Alpha 77 II bodies simultaneously, or as close to simultaneously as possible. The cameras can be fully set up in advance, so I only need to trigger the shutter. I’m considering either: (1) splitting/wiring two remote-release cables to a single switch, or (2) using a wireless/IR remote if both cameras can respond together. Reliability and timing are the main concerns. What’s the best practical approach, and are there any caveats for getting the shutters to fire at nearly the same instant?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
11y ago
2 Answers
2
The IR remote has a fairly wide beam and if your conditions are right, you could use it to trigger multiple cameras. I often use it for "selfies" and I don't even have to aim it at the camera really. It will even bounce off walls so I can stand 'behind' the camera and still use it in some cases. I don't think it works in bright sunlight but I haven't tried it - it works great at night!
Hacking the cables together for the standard remote trigger will probably be way more reliable. If you isolate things right, there shouldn't be any cross-talk. We are using this method to allow a microcontroller to trigger the camera, and it definitely works - the problem we've encountered is when using auto modes, the cameras will click at different times because they need to focus first. In manual modes it works great.
Originally by user15934. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user15934
11y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes—this is a useful setup, and the most reliable method is usually a wired trigger that closes the shutter contacts on both cameras at once. If you split or hack two compatible remote cables into one switch, both bodies should trigger together as long as the wiring is properly isolated.
The main caveat is camera settings: if either camera is using autofocus or auto exposure behavior that delays release, they may fire at slightly different times. For the closest synchronization, pre-focus and use manual settings/manual focus so pressing the trigger only releases the shutter.
An IR remote may also work for multiple cameras if both can see the signal. Sony IR remotes can have a fairly broad beam and may even bounce indoors, but they tend to be less dependable than a wired solution and may be weaker in bright sunlight.
So, for best timing consistency:
- use a wired dual trigger if possible
- set both cameras to manual focus
- lock in exposure/settings beforehand
- test for any remaining lag between bodies
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AI11y ago
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