Tether Tools’ high-visibility orange TetherPro USB cables have become synonymous with tethered photography. And for good reason. TetherPro USB cables are constructed to the highest possible USB specifications and incorporate all of the latest technology ensuring consistent and reliable conductivity, and the fastest and most reliable transfers.

What cable do I need to shoot tethered?

Whether you have a new camera out of the box or you want to start shooting tethered like a pro, it’s important to note that not all cameras use the same cable connectors.  Tether Tools has a Search By Camera tool located at the top of our website that will help you select the correct Primary cable for your tethering needs.

For more information about determining what cable you need, visit our cable finder.

My TetherPro USB cable is 15 feet long, can I go longer?

For those using a a USB 3.0, there is the TetherBoost Pro USB 3.0 Core Controller. The TetherBoost Pro USB 3.0 Core Controller provides consistent power to maintain a stable connection for tethered image transfer when using a DSLR or medium-format digital back system connected to a computer via USB 3.0 cables – now at distances up to 65 feet. This streamlined solution alleviates current frustrations among photographers experiencing dropped signals when shooting with USB 3.0 cameras and computers.

The TetherBoost Pro USB-C Core Controller Extension Cable extends the cable an additional 16 feet (5m) while enhancing the Type-C signal to help move your images up to 10Gbits for the fastest and most secure way to transfer your files from your camera to your computer. Connect a base tethering cable, up to 15 feet (4.6m), to get a maximum length of 31 feet (9.4m) of distance while maintaining high transfer rates and connection stability.

Why are TetherPro USB Cables thicker than the cable that came with my camera?

Take a look at the photos below. The TetherPro Cables are thicker than the cable that comes with your camera and others sold aftermarket.

The reason is the increased insulation – notice the thickness of the colored part around the copper wire as well as the increased white insulation between the colored wires. This provides two benefits. First, this added insulation provides extra protection to the stranded copper wire that transmit the signals from your camera to your computer. In other words, it stands up better to kinks, knots, and people stepping on your cable. Call it added insurance. Second, it provides greater shielding on the wires itself to prevent signal interference or noise in the transmission.

What’s the best way to secure my cable so it doesn’t get jerked out (or even wiggle out of my port)?

Any photographer who shoots tethered will tell you that one of the most frustrating things that could happen on set is an accidental disconnection of the cable from the camera. You’re left having to restart your program, and what’s worse is the possibility of a damaged camera port from the cable being harshly ripped out and disconnected, usually due to someone tripping on the cable.

Tether Tools has two solutions to put this problem to a rest, the JerkStopper Camera Support and the TetherBlock.

Why do I need an orange USB cable for tethering?

While most of our cables come in black as well as orange, we recommend the orange and it’s not just about looks. The orange color ensure cables can be seen throughout the studio, during on-location shoots, and also makes it super easy to find in your gear bag. With multiple people (models, photographer, makeup artist, stylist, clients and assistants) all on a shoot, it’s inevitable someone will not see and trip over a cable in a sea of silver and black photography equipment positioned on set.

TetherPro high-visibility cables are bright orange to bring attention to the cable and avoid accidents. With the cable attached to expensive camera and computer equipment, avoiding accidents can save thousands of dollars in damages.

How can I best take care of my cable?

As a photographer, you invest in the best tools available to help get the finest results.   A quality tethering cable is an investment and proper care and storage will help you get the most life out of it.  Inside your cable are sensitive wires and shielding designed for fast transmission speed and noise-reduction.  Although durable, if folded, bent or pinched you could experience communication errors. In addition to storing the cable in a Standard Organization Case, a proper wrap post shoot is always important. The good folks at The Film Look recently released a great video highlighting the best method on how to wrap your cables for both longevity and to avoid tangles.

Throwing cables in a bag or just bundling them up in a case is a big no-no, as shown in the video when storing your tethering cable always try to lightly roll your cables into a loose coil going with the natural curve of the wire.  When not in use, try storing your tethering cable in a protective case where dust and impurities will not get lodged into the connector ends.