Simple Arrangement for Releasing Camera Shutter from Distance
It is usually disappointing to the amateur photographer, when taking pictures of groups of which he is a member, not to be able to be in the pictures. However, most amateurs can construct a release arrangement, in a few minutes, that operates with satisfaction. A clothespin of the clip type is used. The spring should be weakened by bending it from the wood, so that it has just enough tension to bring the jaws of the clothespin together without a snap. Whittle the inner sides of the handles, as shown, so that the jaws accommodate the plunger of the shutter. Then saw a slot in the handles, ¹⁄₄ in. deep and ¹⁄₈ in. wide. Drill a ³⁄₁₆-in. hole in the whittled depression of one of the jaws, and cut a ¹⁄₈-in. slot to it, as shown. The small trigger piece is cut of hard wood. It should fit its slot snugly, at the other end of the pin.
The release device is operated as follows: Slip the plunger tube, with the shutter release cable, into its slot. Keeping the jaws wide open, place the trigger in the slots of the two compressed handles. It is only necessary to jerk a thread attached to the trigger to free the two handles, which in turn snap the plunger. If the tension on the jaws is too strong, put a rubber band around the handles to act as a check.—Werner W. Baumeister, Walla Walla, Wash.