PocketWizard

Overview

PocketWizard produces wireless radio triggers for synchronizing cameras, flash lighting, and light meters in photography. The brand focuses on reliability and compatibility with various cameras and flashes, including TTL capability, and integrates with manufacturers like Sekonic, Profoto, and Dynalite.²⁸

History

PocketWizard originated in the late 1980s when three lab partners at the University of Vermont formed LPA Design and developed the FlashWizard radio trigger at the request of an architectural photographer's assistant.¹² In the late 1990s, LPA launched the PocketWizard line with products like Plus and MultiMAX for professional photographers.¹² Key milestones include the 2009 release of MiniTT1 and FlexTT5 for Canon, followed by Nikon in 2010.¹ The company has faced sales challenges, layoffs around 2014, and competition from integrated systems by Godox and Profoto.⁴⁶

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Manufacturing details are not specified in available sources; products are developed in the US with headquarters in Shelburne, VT.²

Notable Products

• FlexTT5 - TTL-capable transceiver for Canon and Nikon with high-speed sync support.
• MiniTT1 - Compact TTL transmitter compatible with Canon systems.
• PlusX - Simple, reliable manual trigger for basic flash synchronization.
• Plus IV - Advanced manual transceiver with multiple channels and relays.
• MultiMAX - Earlier precision transceiver for professional remote control.

Reputation

PocketWizard is regarded by professionals for its reliability in wireless triggering, with legacy products like FlashWizard still used by some sports photographers.²⁴ Enthusiasts value its universal compatibility across cameras and flashes.⁷ Criticisms include slow innovation, limited power control compared to competitors like Godox and Profoto, and past sales declines leading to layoffs.⁴⁶