Follow the steps below to configure your Nikon camera and iPad for wired tethered shooting with Evoto. This guide will help ensure a stable connection and optimal image transfer during your session.

1. iPad Setup & Cable Selection

The type of data cable and adapter you’ll need depends on the port on your iPad.

iPad Data Cable Interfaces

• USB Type-C: Most iPad models released after 2021 feature a USB Type-C port. These iPads can typically connect directly to a camera using a compatible USB-C to USB-C or USB-C to USB-A/B data cable (depending on your camera’s port).
• Lightning: Most iPad models released before 2021 feature a Lightning port. Since Lightning data cables do not directly support OTG (On-The-Go) functionality required for direct camera connection, you will need to use a Lightning to USB-A adapter that has OTG capability.

Camera Data Cable Interfaces

Cameras can have various types of data cable interfaces (e.g., USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, Mini-USB, Micro-USB). Ensure your cable or adapter setup matches both your iPad’s port and your camera’s port.

• Specific camera models supported by different data cables can be referenced in the table below

• Additional Note: For other camera models not explicitly mentioned, please refer to your camera’s configuration and interface type to determine the correct cable. The information above serves as a general reference.

Enable Software Permissions

Before connecting, ensure Evoto has the necessary permissions on your iPad:

• When you first open Evoto and enter a project, a prompt will appear: “Evoto would like to access the camera.” Please tap “Allow” to grant these permissions.
  

• If you accidentally tapped “Don’t Allow,” you can go to your iPad’s Settings app to manually enable camera permissions for Evoto.
  

• macOS (for specific file access scenarios, though less common for direct iPad-to-camera): For macOS 15.0 and above systems (relevant if the iPad is used as a bridge to a Mac for file transfer, though not direct tethering), you may need to turn on File & Folders permission in Privacy & Security -> Removable Volumes.
  

Connection Overview

The iPad with a Type-C port can be connected directly to a camera using a data cable. The iPad with a Lightning port requires an OTG Lightning adapter (or Lightning to USB Camera Adapter) to connect.

Note: A memory card must be installed in the camera for tethered shooting to function properly.

2. Nikon Camera Settings

Adjust these settings on your Nikon camera to prepare it for wired tethered shooting with your iPad:

A. USB Data Connection Mode

Your Nikon camera needs to be set to the correct communication mode for tethering.

• Set the USB data connection mode in the camera to MTP/PTP.
  • Menu Path: Network Menu → USB Data Connection → MTP/PTP.
  • Note: Some Nikon models may also have an “iPhone” option for connection with SnapBridge, but for Evoto tethering, “MTP/PTP” is the correct setting.

B. USB Connection Priority

To prioritize stable data transmission for tethered shooting, adjust the USB connection priority.

• Set USB Connection Priority to Shooting.
  • Menu Path: Settings Menu (small wrench icon) → USB Connection Priority → Shooting.

C. USB Power Delivery

For certain Nikon models, turning off USB Power Delivery is crucial to prevent connection instability and unnecessary power draw from your iPad.

• Turn off USB Power Delivery.
  • Menu Path: Menu → Setting Menu (small wrench icon) → USB power delivery → OFF.
  • Note: The USB charging port and data transmission port of Nikon Z7II, Z6III, and other models are often the same. Turning on USB power transmission will cause unstable data transmission and needs to be turned off.

D. Camera Firmware Version

For optimal performance and compatibility, ensure your Nikon camera is running the latest firmware version. Firmware updates often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and enhanced tethering stability.

• To check your firmware version: Navigate through your camera’s menu, typically under a Setup or Firmware Version section.
• To update firmware: Visit Nikon’s official support website, locate your specific camera model, and follow their instructions for downloading and installing the latest firmware.