Self timer
With the self-timer of a camera , the exposure is delayed by a few seconds. The timing can be specified or selectable.
Earlier, retractable self-timers were screwed into the release button of the camera or attached to the front as a lever. With today's digital cameras , the lead time can be set in the menu.
Applications
Self-timers are commonly used in three situations:
- A self-timer enables the photographer to take group photos in a position in which he can also see the picture
- If you are traveling alone, you can - z. B. under the summit cross - take photos yourself
- A self-timer can be used to avoid blurred pictures with longer focal lengths and exposure times if no remote release is available. By pressing the release button, the camera can shake or vibrate for the first 1-2 seconds, even if it is mounted on a tripod. The delayed release leaves enough time for the camera vibrations to subside.
Executions
Mechanical self-timer
Above all in mechanical cameras ( reflex cameras and also viewfinder cameras ) the release offset is implemented mechanically. This is done by tensioning a clockwork device which, with the help of spring force and gear wheels , activates the camera's release mechanism with a delay. A mechanical self-timer is usually attached in such a way that the end of the time delay can be recognized by a clear position of the lever (or similar). With mechanical self-timers it is usually possible to influence the release time within limits, i. H. To shorten.
Mechanical camera models without an integrated self-timer can also use external self-timer by means of the connection for a cable release . Such releases can partly be screwed in directly, partly they are used in connection with a cable release. Although clockwork mechanisms (escapement mechanisms) to create the delay time have ultimately also prevailed for the external triggers, there have also been developments that work with fuses, mechanical friction mechanisms, hourglasses or hydraulically.
Electronic self-timer
Electronic cameras show the expiry time of the self-timer with an optical signal (flashing of an LED or the built-in flash unit ) on the front, which changes the frequency of the flashing shortly before the shutter is activated or lights up continuously. Acoustic signals are also common.
The self-timer is i. d. Usually set individually before each use. Some digital cameras also offer a mode in which the self-timer remains activated permanently. With SLR cameras, it can be combined with mirror lock-up.
Some cameras also use the already existing time control to perform interval recordings. External electronic controls with such functions are also available.
Self-timer for film camera
Self-timers were standard in the higher-priced cine-film cameras used in the past. Instead of the selected exposure time for the photo camera, the set scene length ran down, a lead time of 10 to 12 seconds was given.
literature
- Modern narrow film practice, Uwe Ney, Falken Verlag, ISBN 3-8068-4043-1
Individual evidence
- ↑ autoknips (website about self-timer). Retrieved March 14, 2016 .