Cactus LV5 Review
Conclusion
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| In the Box Remember to also get a camera release cable if you do not own one already and that the stands are not included. |
I had a lot of fun testing the LV5. Getting the images I envisioned was not always easy and required quite a bit of tinkering and tweaking.
Not having access to four tripods, for example, meant that I typically had to create make shift supports for the LV5. However, I felt that the time invested was well worth it to get the results and unlike the odd lucky chance manual triggering by finger, using the triggers made the process repeatable so that I could perfect each shot including changes to the camera angle, lighting, etc.
Not everyone will have a need for a laser trigger but it is a great device if you have a personal motivation for any of the applications or need to gift someone a present who already has everything, including polarising filters, variable neutral density filters, etc.
Pros
- + easy to use
- + tripod and hot/cold-shoe mounting options
- + long battery life
- + works with rechargeable batteries
- + can trigger camera directly (via an optional, camera-specific cable)
- + ideal partner to existing V5 triggers
- + compatible to other radio triggers (via supplied cable)
- + good user manual
- + safe to use (Class 1 laser)
- + sensor can be used as a remote trigger for camera (using the test button)
- + units can be locked together for transport
- + cables, hood, and batteries included
Cons
- - a bit large in the bag
- - tilting mechanism imposes discrete angles and could be easier to operate
- - stands not included
- - sensor LED positioning not optimal
- - on-off button should be a switch
- - laser triggering only (no sound or ambient light triggering).
The retail price for the LV5 is US $110 (also available from Adorama for $109.95 with free shipping).
Summarising, while I did not know that I needed a laser trigger before I had the LV5, I had heaps of fun testing it and already have plans for more applications. It is great to have the option available and to know about the possibilities opened up by a laser trigger, should respective challenges arise in future photography projects.
If you have any questions about the LV5, I will try to answer them in the respective LV5 discussion thread.
P.S.: Check out the “Sneak Preview” section for two extra features of the production units that I did not have a chance to test yet.
Want to get the LV5? Buy it here or from Adorama!
Disclaimer
I have been invited to participate in the LV5 beta test, probably based on my extensive Cactus V5 review. I have actively participated in improving the initial beta design into that of the production units, but have not received any financial remuneration in return for my contributions or this review.
All beta testers have always been encouraged by the manufacturer to freely speak their mind about the product in respective reviews.
All images featured in this review were created by me and are copyrighted. They have been post-processed to enhance appearance, but no post-production trickery has been used to fake results.
