Arduino Camera Flash Control

This is a simple method for controlling a camera flash using an Arduino. The nice thing about this method is that it uses an optoisolator to separate the Arduino from potentially high voltage spikes produced by the flash. I choose to use and optoisolator instead of a relay because the response time is much quicker, which is important when dealing with split second camera timing. Being able to control a camera flash in this manner is not only useful for Photography, but can come in handy for making a haunted house display (and miscellaneous hijinks).

Step 1 Go get stuff

You will need:

- Arduino
- Camera Flash (with input jack)
- Breadboard
- MOC3021 optocoupler (Triac)
- 220 ohm to 1K resistor
- 3/32" mono plug
- Solid core wire

Comments

[dasigi]

The trigger port baffles me, I have not seen one on any flash! Would it be possible to create an alternative, for example, with an off-camera shoe mount or some such?

[randofo]

You can buy hot shoe to PC flash sync cable adapter mounts.

[ynze]

Pretty neat! The search for unintended use for a flashlight starts here...