THIS INFORMATION HAS BEEN UPDATED AT  https://alphasports.pro/pocket-wizard-remotes/

Some readers of the Kentucky Derby story that appeared on AlphaUniverse.com wrote me to ask what configuration and cables did I use when covering the Derby and other sporting events with the new Sony Alpha a9.

There are two ways a professional digital camera is triggered, wired or via radio. The a9, unlike other professional DSLR cameras, uses the USB port to charge and trigger the camera.

All USB cables are not the same.

The USB port on the Sony a9 uses a USB Micro Plug connector that can accept two different cables.

To charge the camera you use a with a USB Micro-B Plug connector which is a ubiquitous cable for charging all sorts of USB devices. The Sony a9 comes with a USB charging block which has a USB Micro-B Plug as the standard charging method. Using a USB Micro-B plug is handy as you can charge your camera from any USB device that delivers a 5-volt output.

But to trigger a camera, you need a USB Micro-A Plug connector which is slightly longer. These cables are a little harder to find as the send and receive data. I use the “Vello 3.5mm Remote Shutter Release Cable for Select Sony Cameras with Multi-Terminal.” (there may be other compatible cable manufacturers)

This Cable has the USB Micro-A at one end and a 3.5mm Stereo mini jack at the other end.

Wired Triggers

If you plan to make you own triggering device, the above photo will show you how to wire to the Stereo Mini 3.5mm jack of the Vello Cable to push to trigger device of your choice. Combine the wake-up and focus contacts of a female stereo 3.5mm plug together and use the trigger lead to trip the camera when they make contact.

It is easier to purchase a Pocket Wizard Cable (Pre-Trigger Mono Miniphone Adapter)  to 3.5mm Vello Cable to simplify the Stereo Mini to Mono Mini wiring. The Pre-Trigger Mono Miniphone Adapter (PTMM) is a standard in the industry for triggering Wired and Radio remotes.

The great thing about the Pre-Trigger Mono Miniphone Adapter (PTMM) is that it allows you to selectively wake or sleep camera just like using camera’s shutter release button and it comes with instructions inside the packaging. The PTMM cable end in a Male Mini 3.5mm plug which is ready to plug into a Pocket Wizard or other radio or wired devices.

Radio Triggers

Triggering cameras via a radio gives you more freedom to place a remote camera without the need for long cable runs. Among sports and news, the most popular radio triggers are made by Pocket Wizard. While they have many triggers to choose from the most popular currently are the Pocket Wizard Plus III, but they have many different choices to trigger not only cameras but flashes as well.

Sony Triggers

Sony makes a few options for short range camera triggering as well. These may suit your needs depending on your intended use.

Cabled

Sony RM-VPR1 Remote Commander with Multi-Terminal Cable

Sony RM-SPR1 Remote Commander for Alpha a5100 Mirrorless Digital Camera

Wireless

Sony RMT-VP1K Wireless Receiver and Remote Commander Kit

But there are many third party options as well.

Mounting

Once you have your camera/cable/trigger all worked out, you will need to work out how you will mount your camera in just the right place to capture that unique angle. There are many options for camera mounting from a simple tripod to more complex pipe clamps. Here are a couple of choices to look at:

Floor Plate – Platypod Max Camera Support with BE-117 Ball Head Kit a beautiful little kit when seeking to mount a camera on a level surface like a floor, table or other level areas.

Clamps – Manfrotto 035RL Super Clamp with Standard Stud and you will need a sturdy ball head to mount the camera to the clamp, and the Oben BE-117 Ball Head that is in the kit above will work fine or order it separately.

Safety

It is always a good idea to check about rules for using remotes at events. At some sporting events, Radio Frequencies and the mounting of remote cameras is strictly controlled by the events management. Safety Cables, proof of Liability Insurance and a post-installation inspection are sometimes required.

Safety Cables – Lowel Safety Cable – 3 Pack

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