Wi-Fi device options
There’s a host of different devices that a Wi-Fi enabled camera can make a connection with, whether that’s directly or over an existing Wi-Fi network. Some will offer communication in one direction – sending pictures to a printer, for instance – while others, such as a smartphone, offer two-way control. Here’s a guide to what your camera may be able to work with…
camera down and retiring to a safe distance in order to record images of skittish wildlife. Documentary photographers equipped with cameras that lack fold-out LCD screens may appreciate the fact that they can position their cameras at a low level or in other awkward positions and use a wireless connection to frame their shots without having to look through the viewfinder or rear monitor. And landscape photographers may appreciate the ability to instantly share scenics that have been synced to their smartphone.
Then of course there’s the prospect of shooting in a studio with the camera wirelessly tethered to Lightroom – so no more trip hazards – or using a camera manufacturer’s own software for remote Live View shooting and making use of a large monitor to check focus and composition up close, as well as triggering the camera remotely for shake-free shots.
Connection challenge
As you can see, there’s plenty to get excited about with built-in Wi-Fi. But it’s not an entirely seamless experience. The initial set-up process can be irksome – but the key is to follow the instructions on the back of the camera and on the device in the order that they appear. When you first activate the camera’s Wi-Fi, you’ll need to create a nickname so that you can identify the camera on a Wi-Fi network. Many of the Wi-Fi functions require a connection to a network, be that a public one or your own internet connection at home, although you can turn the camera into a Wi-Fi access point when you want to control it directly.
Depending on your camera model, you may have to run through a number of steps each time you pair your camera with your phone in order to share an image you’ve just taken. You may have to disconnect and reconnect to Wi-Fi, quit out of the camera app on the phone and relaunch it, and more. That being said, the benefits of built-in Wi-Fi unquestionably outweigh the niggly drawbacks.
There’s the prospect of shooting in a studio with the camera wirelessly tethered to Lightroom – so no more trip hazards