Posted by David Schoen on December 26, 2016 at 7:47 PM
Is anyone using a Cam Ranger for wi-fi control of DSLR? The current Nikon wi-fi algorithms and iOS software leave a lot to be desired. The approach to the D750 is quite different than the D500. D750 uses WMU iOS app while the D500 uses the SnapBridge app. Setting up the D750 is relatively easy and quick but the D500 and SnapBridge requires many steps and takes about 5 minutes. Both approaches are very limited. All you can do is basically focus and shoot. And both apps will transfer 2MP images to your iOS device. The Cam Ranger appears to offer a lot more control and is able to do focus stacking, something which appeals to me. If you have one, how easy is it to set up and use? I currently use Control my Nikon for tethered shooting. Does the Cam Ranger software compare favorably to Control my Nikon? Yes, this device costs $300 and there are cheaper alternatives out there. As good? Software as good? Thanks to those who have some on hands knowledge with these wi-if controllers.
Posted by Wick Smith on December 27, 2016 at 7:43 AM
David,
I shoot Canon, not Nikon but can shed light on the Cam Ranger. I find it extremely easy to use with my iPhone or iPad, although I am not a fan of hauling an ipad around for this purpose in the field. The focus stacking works extremely well and has three settings to use on how much focal length differential you want between shots. The smallest increment is tiny, so you could use that for really close-up macro work. I usually find that the medium setting provides plenty of overlap, depending on the subject. You have full control over the camera and settings, including the focal point.
It works well once you have the steps down pat on plugging in the Cam Ranger, setting up your mobile device to connect to that wireless signal and opening the software. After a couple of times, it becomes second nature.
Having said all of this, I got the Canon 5D IV this fall, and it has built in wireless in it. So I'm selling the Cam Ranger only for that reason. If you are interested, please reply or contact me at wsmith@biztoolsone.com. I have all the stuff that comes with it, including an extra battery. We'd have to figure out if my Canon version works with the Nikon...
Thanks, Wick Smith
Posted by Craig Moreau on December 27, 2016 at 3:50 PM
David,
I have the CamRanger for my Canon 5d2. Although I haven't had it for long, I do find it easy to use. The setup was easy as well. The software controls everything I need it to, and is pretty straightforward to use. The app isn't necessarily pretty, but it's functional.
I love having the larger screen of my iPad Mini for live view, and tapping the iPad to focus the camera is great. The focus stacking capability is great, and you can just set the app and let the camera do its thing.
Discussion
2 repliesI shoot Canon, not Nikon but can shed light on the Cam Ranger. I find it extremely easy to use with my iPhone or iPad, although I am not a fan of hauling an ipad around for this purpose in the field. The focus stacking works extremely well and has three settings to use on how much focal length differential you want between shots. The smallest increment is tiny, so you could use that for really close-up macro work. I usually find that the medium setting provides plenty of overlap, depending on the subject. You have full control over the camera and settings, including the focal point.
It works well once you have the steps down pat on plugging in the Cam Ranger, setting up your mobile device to connect to that wireless signal and opening the software. After a couple of times, it becomes second nature.
Having said all of this, I got the Canon 5D IV this fall, and it has built in wireless in it. So I'm selling the Cam Ranger only for that reason. If you are interested, please reply or contact me at wsmith@biztoolsone.com. I have all the stuff that comes with it, including an extra battery. We'd have to figure out if my Canon version works with the Nikon...
Thanks, Wick Smith
I have the CamRanger for my Canon 5d2. Although I haven't had it for long, I do find it easy to use. The setup was easy as well. The software controls everything I need it to, and is pretty straightforward to use. The app isn't necessarily pretty, but it's functional.
I love having the larger screen of my iPad Mini for live view, and tapping the iPad to focus the camera is great. The focus stacking capability is great, and you can just set the app and let the camera do its thing.