Tethering your camera to your computer or tablet is automatic for all professional photographers and many enthusiasts have learned the benefits of tethering. We’ve covered all the benefits of tethered image capture in many articles. Many newer cameras can also be powered via USB, making a secure connection even more vital.
Tethering isn’t without a little risk – especially for the accident-prone. Most photographers choose the bright orange Tether Tools cables, which are easy to see, but some people still manage to trip over them or kick them. How do you still shoot tethered or power your camera while also protecting your expensive camera and computer?
This is where the new TetherGuard comes into play. It’s got a more robust tether as well as being easier to use with a small magnet. It’s a big upgrade over Jerkstopper! The attachment to the cable, where you thread the magnet onto the cable, is much easier than before and will fit almost any size USB cable.
If I rotated my camera as in the photo without a TetherGuard, the cable would just fall out. TetherGuard is simple to adjust to keep the right tension on my USB cable, but if I trip or knock the cable, it will come straight out instead of at an angle. TetherGuard is designed such that the cable comes out straight to protect your USB port on your camera.
There is also a TetherGuard for your computer to protect the USB at the other end. It will stick to your TetherTable Aero and ensure cables don’t get yanked out of your computer. The Thread Mount TetherGuard can attach to L brackets or any other ¼-20 thread if you want to secure your cable anywhere along its path.
TetherGuard starts at only $39. The alternative, should a cable get yanked out of your camera, is a complete main board replacement at costs starting at $400! It’s a small price to pay for some big insurance.
Whether I’m doing a lighting test, such as today, or a shoot, I protect my cameras and computers with TetherGuard. You can order your own at www.tethertools.ca or from your favourite photography retailer.
JULY SPECIALS
TetherGuard Tether Support Kit – only $29.99
Author: Will Prentice
A portrait, fine art and commercial photographer for 30 plus years, Will Prentice is not just a contributor to PHOTONews magazine, but also host of PHOTONewsTV, owner of Captura Photography+Imaging and Technical Support/Brand Manager for Amplis Foto, Canada’s largest distributor of photographic equipment.
Will teaches photographers of all skill levels how to improve their craft – from creative photo projects to picking the right gear for their needs to flattering lighting to getting the best expressions to creating final images for screen and print. His unique style of highly detailed images with perfect tonality, wide dynamic range and stunning colour is instantly recognizable. Commercial clients rely on Will’s creative eye and mastery of lighting.
When he’s not behind the camera or in front of a class, you’ll find Will outdoors in any weather – usually on one of his bikes or enjoying time with his grandchildren.
