Soft shutter button

[cliveh]

I have never used one of these, but are they of any benefit? I’m told a soft release button provides more leverage that can be pressed faster and easier, with less camera shake. Do any APUG members use these?

[BrianShaw]

Mostly no, but on my F3 I find the original shutter release to be uncomfortable and a soft shutter button makes it easier to press without "stabbing".

[Chan Tran]

I don't know but the F3 has an electrical shutter release so it's soft.

[BrianShaw]

I don't know but the F3 has an electrical shutter release so it's soft.

Yes it is electrical, but the button is recessed -- low.

[Aja B]

The word 'soft' in soft shutter release is a misnomer. It does nothing to change the resistance or travel distance of the camera's release button. I use one on the Nikon F2 because 1) it raises the level of the release button to a more comfortable position, 2) makes it easier to locate 'by feel' and 3) there isn't a protective collar around the soft release button (vs. the camera's release button) so there isn't any inadvertent pressing on something that won't trigger the shutter. With the index finger resting on the soft release, the finger is also in contact with the shutter spd dial, making it a snap to go from one to the other without having to hunt.

[MattKing]

I use one on a Canonet. Some times I'll move it to an OM-2n.

It permits "rolling" the finger on to the release in order to trigger the shutter.

They change the geometry, so you may find you like their use.

[bsdunek]

The word 'soft' in soft shutter release is a misnomer. It does nothing to change the resistance or travel distance of the camera's release button. I use one on the Nikon F2 because 1) it raises the level of the release button to a more comfortable position, 2) makes it easier to locate 'by feel' and 3) there isn't a protective collar around the soft release button (vs. the camera's release button) so there isn't any inadvertent pressing on something that won't trigger the shutter. With the index finger resting on the soft release, the finger is also in contact with the shutter spd dial, making it a snap to go from one to the other without having to hunt.

I use them on my Nikon F's for the same reason. Especially with an FTN head - it raises the button making it easier and steadier to press. The one on my Yashica GSN is just comfortable due to the larger area.

[IloveTLRs]

... a soft shutter button makes it easier to press without "stabbing".

This is why I use one on a Rollei 35

[TBN]

I use one on both my OM-1 and my FE2.. I find it very useful. Gives me a much easier press on the button.
Give it a try - they're not that expensive. !

[cliveh]

Thanks for all response, I've now bought one to give it a try.