Step 1: Prep Your Camera and iPhone
Before you start, make sure your gear is ready to talk to each other.
- Update your Sony A1 Firmware: The Creators’ App requires Firmware Ver. 2.00 or later on the Sony A1. If you are on an older firmware, you will need to update the camera first.
- Download the App: Grab the Sony Creators’ App from the iOS App Store.
- Turn on Wireless Connections:
- On your iPhone: Ensure both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are turned on.
- On your Sony A1: Go to the Menu
Network
Cnct./PC Remote
Smartphone Connection and set it to On.
Step 2: Pair the Sony A1 to Your iPhone
Once the camera’s smartphone connection is active, it’s time to link them.
- Open the Creators’ App on your iPhone.
- Tap the Camera tab at the bottom of the screen and select Connect Camera.
- On your Sony A1, navigate to:
- Menu
Network
Cnct./PC Remote
Smartphone Connection
Select Connection / Register Smartphone.
- A QR code and the camera’s Bluetooth name will appear on the camera screen.
- Menu
- In the app on your iPhone, select your Sony A1 when it appears in the Bluetooth device list (or scan the QR code using the app).
- Confirm the pairing request on both your iPhone and the camera screen.
Connection Note: Bluetooth is used for the initial pairing, background location tagging, and waking up the camera. Wi-Fi is automatically triggered when you start live view shooting or transfer images.
Step 3: Using Remote Shooting (Live View)
Once paired, you can fully control your A1 from your iPhone screen.
- In the Creators’ App, tap Remote Shooting.
- Your iPhone will prompt you to join the camera’s Wi-Fi network. Tap Join.
- Once connected, you will see a real-time Live View from the A1 on your phone.
What you can control from your iPhone:
- Exposure Settings: Adjust Shutter Speed, Aperture, ISO, and Exposure Compensation.
- Focusing: Tap anywhere on your phone screen to set your focus point (Touch AF).
- Drive & Focus Modes: Switch between Single, Continuous shooting, and manual/auto focus.
- Recording: Trigger the shutter for stills or start/stop video recording.
Step 4: Transferring Photos and Videos
You can easily review and import your high-resolution files directly to your phone’s camera roll.
- Tap View and Import in the app.
- Browse the thumbnail grid of images currently on your A1’s memory cards.
- Select and Transfer: Select the images you want and tap Import.
- Tip: You can choose to import the original file size (including RAW, depending on your app settings) or a lightweight 2MP version perfect for quick social sharing.
Pro-Tips for the Best Experience
- Set Up Location Information Linkage: In the app, turn on Location Information Linkage. This uses your iPhone’s GPS to automatically geotag your photos on the camera via Bluetooth as you shoot.
- Background Transfers: You can configure the app to automatically transfer marked images (using the “FTP/Transfer” rating or protect key on the camera) to your phone even when the camera is turned off and packed in your bag.
- Keep Camera Awake: Ensure your camera’s “Power Save Start Time” isn’t set too short, or the connection might drop if you take a long break between shots.