How to Control Your Samsung NX with a Remote Control
Since acquiring my Samsung NX 500 in 2015 and my NX 1 in 2018, I've developed a special love affair with Korean brand cameras. Even today, these two camera bodies have nothing to be ashamed of compared to the latest technological advances in photography.
For my outdoor sessions and landscape photography, the NX1 and NX500 are my favorite camera bodies. Their functionality, ease of use, and the quality of the images they produce are largely unmatched by new APS-C cameras released recently. Although Samsung withdrew from the market in 2016 and consequently no longer provides hardware support in case of failure, I'm not ready to abandon this system anytime soon.
An Update Story
If, like me, you own a Samsung NX camera, you've probably noticed that the Samsung Camera Manager app no longer works since the update to Android 9 (Pie). Samsung Camera Manager is an extremely practical application because it allows you to take long exposures via the camera's Bulb (B) mode. Without this app, it's impossible to exceed the 30-second limit imposed by the camera body.
However, don't panic—there's an alternative to replace the application. Indeed, after some research on the web, I came across this remote control: the JJC TMN LCD.
After unpacking and starting it up, it's clear that this remote is quite complex to use. The manual doesn't really help, and you can easily get lost. To save you a nervous breakdown, I'm offering you a small illustrated home tutorial.
Controlling Your Samsung NX Camera with the JJC TMN LCD Remote
Important Note
This remote control is specifically designed for Samsung NX cameras and provides an excellent alternative to the discontinued Samsung Camera Manager app. Make sure your camera firmware is up to date for optimal compatibility.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make sure the camera is turned off.
- Connect the remote via the camera's micro-USB port.
- Turn on the remote control.
- Turn on the camera.
- Set the camera to manual mode (M) and activate manual focus (MF).
- Decrease the shutter speed until you reach Bulb mode (B) (located just after the 30-second mark).
- The remote offers two ways to take the photo:
- First option: Hold the "HOLD" button down until the desired exposure time. This is displayed on both the remote and the camera.
- Second option: Slide said button up to start the exposure. Once the desired exposure time is reached, slide the button down to finish the photo.
Why This Matters for Landscape Photography
The ability to control your Samsung NX camera remotely is crucial for landscape photography, especially for long exposures of moving water, clouds, or light trails. The JJC TMN LCD remote fills the gap left by Samsung's discontinued Camera Manager app, ensuring that Samsung NX users can continue to create stunning long exposure images.
This remote control can do many other things, but I don't need these features for my photography needs. The primary function—enabling bulb mode exposures beyond 30 seconds—is what makes it invaluable for serious landscape photographers using Samsung NX systems.
"The Samsung NX system may be discontinued, but with the right accessories like the JJC TMN LCD remote, these cameras continue to deliver exceptional results for landscape and long exposure photography."
And there you have it! In the end, it's not that complicated 🙂 This simple solution allows Samsung NX users to continue pushing the boundaries of their photography, proving that discontinued doesn't mean obsolete when you have the right tools and knowledge.
For those still using Samsung NX cameras, this remote control represents a lifeline that keeps these excellent cameras relevant and functional for serious photography work. The investment in a JJC TMN LCD remote is minimal compared to the cost of switching to an entirely new camera system, making it an essential accessory for any Samsung NX photographer serious about long exposure work.
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