What Is A Self Timer On A Camera?
A self timer is an automatic shooting mode that counts down and then takes a photo. Â Usually selectable in a camera’s drive mode menu, there’s often multiple timing options. Â With Canon cameras for example, you can select a 2-second timer, or a 10-second timer. Â Once the shutter button is pressed, a series of beeps emit from the camera as it counts down to taking the photo.
This mode is useful when combined with a tripod because it allows you to easily take self portraits or group photos where you want to be in the picture as well. Â All DSLRs will have a self timer function and many point and shoot cameras have this as well. Â You’ll have to refer to your specific camera manual to find out exactly how to turn it on, but the symbols seen in the photo below, from a Canon camera, are pretty standard and should be visible in your camera’s menus as well somewhere.
Another use for a self timer is when you are trying to achieve absolute critical sharpness in your images when using a tripod. Â Even the slight touch of your finger on the shutter button can cause vibrations in the image when you have a long shutter speed. Â By turing on the timer, it gives the vibrations time to dissipate before the photo is actually taken. Â Many people use a cable release remote control for this same reason, but if you don’t have one, or forget to take it with you, the self timer trick will work!
Additional Reading
- What Is A Tripod?
- What Is A Selfie?
- What Is A Cable Release?
