DIY: Build Your Own Camera Foot Switch

When you're taking pictures, you don't always want to be behind the camera. Maybe you want to do a self-portrait, or you just need your hands free for something else. The 2-10 second delay of the self-timer on most cameras isn't always the answer, especially if you're going for precision. A remote shutter release/switch is a far better way to go.

The folks at PetaPixel have posted a great DIY project that's not only an effective solution, but cheap too. It all starts with a keyboard sustain pedal. If you have a cheap keyboard laying around the house, you might have a sustain pedal too. If not, you can pick one up for $5-$10 at Guitar Center.

The rest of the ingredients can be had inexpensively at Radio Shack or a similar store, and consist of a few wires, an adapter and a soldering iron if you don't have one already.

Check out the pictures and full set of instructions over at PetaPixel.