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Optical transmitters and receivers let you control off-camera flashes, like strobes, without the potential issues of other methods like RF. Their near-instant activation allows for fast shutter speeds and they generally work with any camera or camera system. More expensive models include RF or IR triggers as well. Browse Adorama’s collection of Optical Transmitters & Receivers from Yongnuo, Flashpoint, Pocket Wizard and more.
The three main kinds of wireless triggers are optical, IR, and RF. Each has strengths and weaknesses, and each has their uses. Optical transmitters and receivers sense when another flash fires, and then trigger the flash/strobe that they’re attached to. IR triggers sense an infrared signal sent from a transmitter. RF is the same, except they use radio frequencies.
Optical triggers may have difficulty outdoors in bright light, since they require a certain level of brightness-difference between the ambient light and the flash. They don’t require line of sight per se, but they may have trouble if there’s not enough light to sense that a flash fired. One way around this is mounting the trigger where it can “see” the other flash, then running a cable to the strobe you want to trigger.
RF doesn’t require line of sight, and it doesn’t have issues with bright ambient light. However, these triggers may struggle in certain environments that impede RF signals. Thick walls, especially those with metal, could be an issue. A sporting event with a lot of other photographers using RF triggers may also lead to problems.
IR triggers require line of sight, and their range is more limited compared to RF. They tend to be a cheaper option, however, and can transmit TTL data between the camera and the transmitter.
TTL stands for Through The Lens, and it’s a way for the optical transmitter to receive data from the camera’s internal sensors. This lets the flash vary its intensity based on the exposure information from the camera, potentially simplifying the photo-taking process.
The simplest of optical receivers and transmitters are compatible with any system, they only need to sense the light burst created by a main flash. For optical triggers that include other types of triggers, such as IR and RF, you’ll need to check that they’re compatible with your camera or with the other transmitters and receivers currently in your kit. Some only work with specific brands, while others are universal.
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