Introducing... the 'Turbo Blaster©' (Nikon ML L3)

Member Name: JJJJ

Product:	Nikon ML L3
Date:	12/03/09 (274 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Looks cool, works well

Disadvantages: So small that it's easily lost

Nowadays, many camera accessories have incredibly bland names (even if their functions are quite cool). One such example is the Nikon 'ML-L3', a tiny remote control which is compatible with the majority of Nikon's SLR cameras - I personally would have called it the 'Turbo Blaster', 'Nitro Changer' or something equally ridiculous.

Constructed from tough black plastic, and housing one large white button on the top of the unit, the device currently costs £14.50 from Amazon. Measuring only 6 cm x 0.7 cm x 2.8 cm and weighing just 10g, the ML-L3 easily fits in the palm of your hand, and is comfortable to hold.

So how is the device useful?
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If you do a lot of tripod-based night-time photography with long exposures (as I do), then manually pressing the shutter button on your camera often results in blurry images, as the small vibrations from your hand create streaks of light in the final image. Therefore, the ML-L3 can be set up to operate your SLR's shutter button without you having to be anywhere near the camera. Of course, you could set up you camera with a shutter delay... but where's the fun in that!? ;)

The ML-L3 comes with a tiny little fabric case which is hardwearing, and actually very cute - the only problem is, that the ML-L3 and its case are so small that they can easily be lost.

The remote takes one 'CR2025' lithium battery (included) which lasts a very long time. I've had the ML-L3 since last year and used it a fair bit, but the power cell hasn't yet run out yet - impressive stuff.

Although it has limited functionally, the one button on the unit can actually be set up to operate other features on your camera rather than just the shutter release - that said, the shutter operation is really what the unit is intended for.

For the money, the ML-L3 is a great piece of kit which is essential for the photographer who uses a tripod on a regular basis. As far as I know, it is compatibly with the Nikon D40, D40x, D50, D60, D70, D70s, D80 and D90 - just remember to change your camera to 'remote shooting' mode, otherwise you'll be pressing the 'Turbo Blaster's' button with no effect. Highly recommended.

Technical bits and pieces
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Product Description: Nikon ML L3 - remote control
Device Type: Remote control
Dimensions (WxDxH): 6 cm x 0.7 cm x 2.8 cm
Weight: 10 g
Connectivity Technology: Infrared
Supported Devices: Camera
Input Device: Keypad
Max Operating Distance: 5 m
Battery: 1 x remote control unit battery - CR2025 - lithium

Summary: Operate your camera from a distance

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