What To Know
- The Canon EOS 60D is a fantastic camera for photographers of all levels, offering a range of features that can help you capture stunning images.
- This is the most basic timer mode, allowing you to set a delay before the camera takes a picture.
- The Canon EOS 60D doesn’t have a built-in intervalometer, but you can purchase a third-party intervalometer that plugs into the camera’s remote control port.
The Canon EOS 60D is a fantastic camera for photographers of all levels, offering a range of features that can help you capture stunning images. One of these features is the built-in timer, which is perfect for capturing self-portraits, group photos, and even time-lapse sequences. But how do you actually set the timer on your Canon EOS 60D? This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can utilize this valuable feature with ease.
Understanding the Timer Options
Before diving into the steps, let’s understand the different timer options available on your Canon EOS 60D. These options give you flexibility depending on your needs:
- Self-Timer: This is the most basic timer mode, allowing you to set a delay before the camera takes a picture. You can choose between 2-second and 10-second delays.
- Remote Control: This option allows you to trigger the camera remotely using a compatible Canon remote control. This is particularly useful for avoiding camera shake when shooting long exposures or capturing wildlife without disturbing them.
- Bulb: This mode allows you to keep the shutter open for as long as you hold down the shutter button. This is perfect for capturing light trails or night scenes.
Setting the Self-Timer
Now, let’s get into the practical part of setting the timer on your Canon EOS 60D. Here’s how to set the self-timer:
1. Access the Menu: Turn on your camera and press the **Menu** button.
2. Navigate to the Timer Setting: Use the navigation buttons to scroll through the menu options until you reach the **”Shooting”** menu. Within this menu, you’ll find the **”Self-Timer”** option.
3. Select the Delay: Use the navigation buttons to select either **”2 sec”** or **”10 sec”** delay.
4. Confirm Your Selection: Press the **Set** button to confirm your chosen delay.
Using the Remote Control (Optional)
If you have a compatible Canon remote control, you can use it to trigger the camera remotely. Here’s how:
1. Pair the Remote: Make sure your remote control is compatible with your Canon EOS 60D. Refer to your remote’s instructions for pairing instructions.
2. Select Remote Control: In the **”Shooting”** menu, navigate to the **”Remote Control”** option.
3. Enable Remote Control: Select **”Enable”** to activate the remote control function.
Capturing Images with the Timer
With the timer set, you’re ready to capture your images. Here’s what to do:
1. Compose Your Shot: Frame your picture carefully, considering the delay you’ve set.
2. Press the Shutter Button: Half-press the shutter button to focus and ensure proper exposure.
3. Wait for the Timer: The camera will count down the selected delay before taking the picture.
4. Stay Still: During the delay, avoid moving the camera to prevent blurriness.
Tips for Successful Timer Photography
To ensure you get the best results from your timer settings, keep these tips in mind:
- Use a Tripod: A tripod is essential for keeping the camera stable during the delay, especially for longer exposures.
- Practice Your Composition: Take a few test shots to ensure your framing is perfect before starting your actual shoot.
- Experiment with Different Delays: Try both 2-second and 10-second delays to see which works best for your subject and composition.
- Use the Remote Control Wisely: For situations where even the slightest movement can affect your shot, the remote control is invaluable.
Beyond Basic Timer Settings: Exploring Advanced Features
While the basic self-timer is useful, the Canon EOS 60D offers more advanced timer features that can be utilized for creative photography.
- Continuous Shooting with Timer: This feature allows you to capture a series of images at set intervals. This is perfect for time-lapse photography, capturing the progression of a scene over time.
- Intervalometer: The Canon EOS 60D doesn’t have a built-in intervalometer, but you can purchase a third-party intervalometer that plugs into the camera’s remote control port. This allows for more precise control over the timing of your shots.
Time-Lapse Photography: Unleashing Your Creativity
Time-lapse photography is a captivating technique that condenses a long period of time into a short, dynamic video. The Canon EOS 60D’s timer capabilities make it an ideal camera for this type of photography.
To create a time-lapse, you’ll need to:
1. Set Up Your Shot: Choose a scene that changes over time, such as clouds moving across the sky or flowers blooming.
2. Choose Your Interval: Determine the time interval between each shot. This depends on the speed of the changes you want to capture.
3. Use a Tripod: A tripod is essential for keeping the camera stable throughout the entire time-lapse sequence.
4. Capture Your Shots: Use the camera’s continuous shooting with timer or an intervalometer to capture a series of images at regular intervals.
5. Edit Your Images: Once you have your images, use video editing software to combine them into a time-lapse video.
The Final Word: Mastering the Timer on Your Canon EOS 60D
The Canon EOS 60D’s timer feature opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing you to capture images that would be impossible to achieve otherwise. By understanding the different timer options and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently utilize this feature to create stunning self-portraits, group photos, and even captivating time-lapse videos.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use the self-timer for long exposures?
A: While the self-timer can be used for long exposures, it’s not ideal. The maximum delay is 10 seconds, which may not be enough for capturing light trails or other long-exposure effects. It’s recommended to use the remote control or a cable release for long exposures.
Q: How do I know if my remote control is compatible with the Canon EOS 60D?
A: Refer to the user manual for your remote control or check the Canon website for compatibility information.
Q: Can I use the Canon EOS 60D’s timer for astrophotography?
A: Yes, the timer can be useful for astrophotography, especially for capturing star trails. However, for optimal results, you’ll need to use a tripod, a remote control, and a dark location with minimal light pollution.
Q: Can I adjust the timer delay during a continuous shooting sequence?
A: No, you cannot adjust the timer delay during a continuous shooting sequence. The interval between each shot is fixed once you set it.
Q: What are some other creative uses for the timer on the Canon EOS 60D?
A: Beyond self-portraits and time-lapses, the timer can be used for capturing wildlife without disturbing them, documenting a slow-moving process, or creating unique effects in your photography. Experiment and explore the possibilities!
