Wireless is handier by far.
You will likely have to perform a little searching to find a tethering software package. Very little support is offered to Pentax when it comes to tethering. Neither Lightroom or Capture One natively support the K-5. Apparently there is a plugin from DNA Software for Lightroom. Other programs listed with support are PK_Tether and pkTriggerCord. Choose one that will suit your needs.
I use 15 foot usb cable wired connection and it suit me just fine. TetheringTools has a cable at a premium price ($36.95 15 foot).
I chose this one from Amazon and trust Monoprice 15 foot @ $5.29. I've bought from them before. I don't have any drop outs with this cable.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002KL8N6A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1Others love wireless but it comes at a cost like CamRanger at $300.00.
Here's a link that should get you started with compatibility.
https://www.tethertools.com/camera/pentax-k-5/#wiredtethering
Wireless comes in different forms. My recent experience has been with WiFi and a Panasonic camera. I use it to control the camera from a tablet. The system gives you two choices, connect both to your home network or use the cameras built in signal. The built in signal (not sure if that is the right term) gives instantaneous results, but limited range. Using my home network through Comcast gives more range, but with a delay.
--
DebAnn wrote:
Wireless offers more versatility but for most I think you have to be in view of the camera's pick-up sensor. I find mine works sometimes and not others. I never had a fail with a wired remote but I haven't been able to find a really long wire. So it's good when you want to take a shot with a slow shutter time but not if you want to be in the photo yourself.
That's only with the IR (release) models. The RF models do, for the most part, also need some sort of receiver, although several of the more advanced cameras have that built into them.
RPSteiner wrote:
I'm looking to buy remote shutter release for my Pentax K-5 camera. Since I've never used one, I'm looking to folks who might know the pros and cons of tethered (cable release) or a wireless IR remote for some advice.
Thanks in advance,
Richard
http://camranger.comused on a large screen iPAD with 150' range. wonderful for wild life.
RPSteiner wrote:
I'm looking to buy remote shutter release for my Pentax K-5 camera. Since I've never used one, I'm looking to folks who might know the pros and cons of tethered (cable release) or a wireless IR remote for some advice.
Thanks in advance,
Richard
If I had it to do again, I'd just get a wired remote. The last time I went to use my wireless remote the battery was dead. This is why most pro's use the wired remotes. Now I bought some extra batteries that I keep in my bag, but it's still a bit of a pain in the ass when you want to use it and the batteries are dead. That said, if you want some of the bells and whistles that some wireless remotes have like timed images that go more than 30 seconds etc, it's nice to have. Although my new Canon 5D Mark IV has that feature built in and that's how I used it last time I found my remotes battery dead.
I bought a Vello Freewave, wireless off of amazon. It works great. I keep spare batteries for it in my bag. I have not had one problem with it.
A wired remote is generally the most reliable. Some of them also have other functions, such as an intervalometer that can be use to make time-lapses. Obviously you will need to be close to the camera to use this type of remote, limited by the length of the cable.
Tethering more often implies wired connectivity with a laptop or tablet computer to be able to preview the image on-screen, more fully control the camera, and even transfer the image files to the computer as they are taken.
Radio remotes also are pretty reliable, though it can vary depending upon manufacturer. Most can be used from a greater distance and don't rely upon line-of-sight. Quality radio remotes also tend to be the most expensive. Radio remotes range in type from simple triggers to much fancier that allow remote viewing, control of the camera, and to some extent transfer of image files.
IR remotes are the cheapest and typically the simplest, generally have very limited range and have to be line-of-sight with a sensor somewhere on the camera. Often a built-in IR sensor is placed on the front of the camera. That's great if you are using the remote for self-portraits, but may not be ideal if you're using it for wide angle scenic shots or macro work. The distance possible with an IR remote will depend a lot upon ambient light conditions, but probably won't be much more than 15 or 25 feet even under the most ideal lighting and most direct line-of-sight placement.
Thanks for the input, Jerry. Sounds like a case for having both wireless and wired remotes.
Thanks again to everyone who responded. I very much appreciate the information, advice, and experiences shared.
When I mentioned "tethered" I meant just a wired remote shutter release, but I've learned that term can refer to a connection to control the camera from a tablet or laptop. Now I have another option to investigate. Thanks for the links to those who provided them.
Best wishes to all,
Richard
I've used pocket wizards w/ nikon d300. worked perfectly.
RPSteiner wrote:
Thank you all for your advice. I hadn't thought of the risk of me, or someone else, tripping on the wire and causing a disaster. Also, I didn't know that there were radio wireless remotes, and appreciate learning about these. Perhaps getting both is the best option. That way there is the cable backup if the batteries die in the wireless and I forget to pack extras--which of course would NEVER happen :-). And finally, I appreciate knowing that some wireless remotes are very spartan, and I need to be sure the one I select has all the features I need.
It's great to have the UHH with so many knowledgeable folks willing to help.
Richard
Thank you all for your advice. I hadn't thought o... (
show quote)
I use both a wired remote and a wireless radio remote. The wired remote is handy (and inexpensive) if I am working close to the tripod. It's a Canon model and the wire is only about 4' long, so, no chance of anyone tripping on it. Easy to stow, quick to set up, and no batteries to worry about. If I am further away I use my Vello Shutterboss radio remote. More expensive, of course, but you can use it up to something like 300' away. To be honest though, there aren't many places where I would allow myself to get 300' away from my camera!
Have you checked out smart phone apps? I believe that a number of cameras with wi-fi can now be controlled by your smart phone. Never checked. Gave my smart phone back to the company when I retired a few years ago. My dumb phone does everything I need it to. When I turn it on.
DebAnn wrote:
Wireless offers more versatility but for most I think you have to be in view of the camera's pick-up sensor. I find mine works sometimes and not others. I never had a fail with a wired remote but I haven't been able to find a really long wire. So it's good when you want to take a shot with a slow shutter time but not if you want to be in the photo yourself.
Depends on the wireless trigger. IR remotes need line of site, but I don't use them. I use on that works on 2.4 GH frequency. Never had a problem. They run a round $50.00.
If you want to reply, then
register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.