Like many photographers, I found myself in situations where pressing the shutter button directly introduced a subtle yet frustrating shake, particularly with longer exposures or telephoto lenses. This camera shake could ruin an otherwise perfect shot, leading to blurry images or missed opportunities, and it was a problem I desperately needed to solve to improve my photography. Investing in a reliable wireless remote control seemed like the obvious next step to overcome this limitation and ensure sharper results.
- Wireless shutter release -trigger the cameras shutter release remotely from a distance
- Eliminates vibrations caused by physically pressing the shutter release
- Operating range- up to 32 ft
Deciding on a Camera Remote Control
Before diving into purchasing a camera remote control, it’s wise to consider why you need one and what features are most important. Camera remotes primarily exist to trigger your camera’s shutter without physically touching the body, thus eliminating vibrations. This is crucial for long exposures (landscapes, astrophotography, low light), macro photography where depth of field is razor-thin, self-portraits or group shots where you want to be in the frame, and wildlife photography where proximity might scare the subject.
The ideal customer for a basic wireless shutter release is a photographer using a compatible camera model who wants a simple, reliable way to trigger the shutter remotely for sharper images or convenience. If you primarily shoot handheld in bright light and never use a tripod, you might not see much benefit. Those who need advanced features like intervalometer capabilities for time-lapses, or who require a long range without line-of-sight (like radio frequency remotes offer), might need to look at more complex or expensive options. Key things to think about include camera compatibility (is your specific model supported?), operating range, connectivity type (infrared needs line of sight, radio frequency doesn’t), whether you need just immediate trigger or also a delay option, and battery type/availability.
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Introducing the KUNOVA IR Wireless Remote Control
Enter the KUNOVA (TM) IR Wireless Remote Control compatible with Sony Alpha Cameras A7R II, A7 II, A7, A7R, A7S, A6300, A6000, A55, A65, A77, A99, A900, A700, A580, A560, A550, A500, A450, A390, A380, NEX-7, NEX-6, NEX-5T. This small, unassuming device makes a simple promise: to act as a wireless shutter release for a wide range of compatible Sony Alpha cameras, helping you capture sharp photos free from camera shake. When you purchase it, you typically receive the remote itself, often with a CR-2025 3V battery already installed or included separately. Compared to more complex, often pricier proprietary remotes or Bluetooth options offered by camera manufacturers, this KUNOVA remote offers a budget-friendly, straightforward alternative focusing purely on remote shutter triggering via infrared. It’s designed specifically for the list of Sony Alpha cameras mentioned, making it a good fit for owners of those models who need a basic, effective wireless trigger. It is not for users of other camera brands or Sony cameras not on the compatibility list.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons based on my experience:
Pros:
* Affordable and cost-effective solution.
* Effectively eliminates camera shake from pressing the shutter.
* Compact and lightweight, easy to carry.
* Simple, single-button operation.
* Comes with a battery included.
Cons:
* Requires line of sight to the camera’s IR receiver.
* Operating range can be limited in bright sunlight.
* Functionality is basic (immediate or 2-second delay, depending on camera setting).
* Can be finicky depending on the camera model’s sensor location.
Diving Deep into the Features and How They Help
Truly Wireless Shutter Release
The core function of the KUNOVA IR Wireless Remote is its ability to trigger the camera’s shutter wirelessly. This feature, while seemingly simple, opens up a world of photographic possibilities. For years, I relied on either the camera’s built-in timer (which is clunky for multiple shots) or manually pressing the shutter (risking shake). With this infrared remote, I can set up my camera on a tripod, compose the shot, and step away to trigger it from a distance. This is invaluable for self-portraits or group photos where I want to be included without awkwardly running back to the camera after hitting the timer. It also allows me to stand back and observe subjects, like shy wildlife or candid family moments, triggering the shot without my presence right at the camera. The infrared technology means it sends a signal directly to the camera’s IR receiver, much like a TV remote, providing a simple and effective means of remote communication.
Eliminating Vibrations for Sharper Images
This is arguably the most significant benefit of using any remote shutter release, and the KUNOVA remote excels at it within its capabilities. When you press the shutter button on your camera, no matter how careful you are, you introduce a tiny vibration. For everyday handheld shots with fast shutter speeds, this might not be noticeable. However, when you’re using a tripod for long exposures (think silky smooth waterfalls or streaking car lights), shooting macro where depth of field is paper-thin, or using long telephoto lenses where even slight movement is magnified, that vibration can ruin image sharpness. By triggering the shutter wirelessly with this KUNOVA (TM) IR Wireless Remote Control, the camera remains perfectly still on the tripod, leading to noticeably sharper images, especially in critical shooting scenarios. Over time, I’ve found this feature alone justified the small investment, rescuing numerous potentially blurry photos.
Decent Operating Range
The product description states an operating range of up to 32 feet (approximately 10 meters). In practical use, I’ve found this range to be generally accurate under optimal conditions. This is usually more than sufficient for typical use cases like triggering the camera from a few feet away while it’s on a tripod for landscapes, portraits, or group shots. For things like trying to trigger a camera hidden near wildlife from a significant distance, it might fall short, and the need for line of sight becomes a limiting factor here. The signal needs a clear path from the remote to the camera’s IR sensor. Bright sunlight can also sometimes interfere with the signal’s effectiveness, potentially reducing the maximum reliable range or making it harder to get the camera to register the signal consistently. Despite these limitations inherent to infrared technology, the 32-foot range is perfectly adequate for the majority of situations where you’d reach for this type of camera remote.
Standard CR-2025 Battery Power
The remote is powered by a single CR-2025 3V battery, which is a common type. This is a plus because these batteries are readily available at most drugstores, electronics stores, or supermarkets, making replacements easy to find when needed. While battery life can vary depending on usage frequency and storage temperature, these small batteries typically last a long time in low-power devices like camera remotes. I’ve been using mine for quite a while, and the initial battery lasted a considerable amount of time before needing replacement. The fact that it’s included means you can start using the remote right out of the package, which is always convenient.
Camera Mode Setting is Key
One crucial aspect, clearly stated in the product information and something I quickly learned, is the requirement to set your camera to remote control mode. This isn’t a fault of the KUNOVA remote but a necessary step for your Sony Alpha camera to listen for the infrared signal. Finding this setting in your camera’s menu might take a moment the first time, but once you know where it is, engaging remote control mode is quick. This is a fundamental step; if your camera isn’t set correctly, the remote simply won’t work, leading to initial frustration if you’re not aware of this requirement. Compatibility with a wide range of Sony Alpha models, from the older A55/A65 series up through the popular A6000/A6300 and some A7 series cameras, makes this KUNOVA remote a versatile tool for owners of multiple compatible bodies or those upgrading within the Sony ecosystem.
Single Button, Multiple Functions (Depending on Camera)
The KUNOVA (TM) IR Wireless Remote Control features a single button. Its function often depends on the camera’s settings. In some camera modes, a single press triggers the shutter immediately. In others, particularly when the camera is set to the 2-second timer mode and also receiving an IR signal, a press might initiate that 2-second delay before firing. Some users note that pressing the button twice on the 2-second timer setting can cancel the shot, offering a simple way to abort if needed. The straightforward design is part of its appeal – there’s no complex interface, just one button to press to get the job done. While some photographers might prefer remotes with more buttons for functions like half-pressing for focus, or separate immediate and delayed shot buttons, the simplicity of this KUNOVA remote is often sufficient for its primary purpose.
What Other Users Are Saying
I’ve browsed through feedback from other photographers who have used this KUNOVA IR remote, and the sentiment seems generally positive, aligning well with my own experience. Many users appreciate its excellent value for the price and its overall effectiveness. They confirm that it works reliably, provided the camera is set to remote control mode. Some users of the a6000 series cameras specifically point out that the IR sensor is located on the hand grip section, which is important for directing the remote properly. They also mention that pressing the single button twice when the camera is set to the 2-second timer can cancel the countdown, while a single press fires immediately or after the delay depending on the mode. Another observation is that you might have to wait for the in-camera photo review to finish before the remote will register the next press, which is a camera-specific delay, not a remote issue, but something to be aware of. Overall, it’s seen as a dependable accessory for compatible Sony cameras.
Final Thoughts on Solving the Shake Problem
Camera shake remains a perennial challenge for photographers aiming for maximum sharpness, especially in low light or with longer lenses. The complications of not solving this range from slightly soft images to completely unusable shots, wasting time and effort. The KUNOVA (TM) IR Wireless Remote Control offers a straightforward, budget-friendly, and effective solution for compatible Sony Alpha camera users. Its ability to trigger the shutter wirelessly, eliminating physical contact, is its main strength. Combined with its wide compatibility across many popular Sony models and simple operation, it’s a great fit for photographers looking to improve image sharpness and add convenience to their shooting, particularly when using a tripod. To check out the KUNOVA (TM) IR Wireless Remote Control for yourself, click here.
Last update on 2025-07-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API