With the 80 cm OC-E4A multifunction cable from Canon for the hot shoe, photographers can trigger Canon flashes remotely. Removing the flash from the camera's hot shoe allows for unique and dramatic lighting styles that are not possible with a conventional hot shoe. Off-camera lighting reduces the harsh shadows that often occur with flashes mounted directly on the camera, giving photos a more natural look. This multifunction cable is also compatible with the digital stereo microphone DM-E1D, making it suitable for video applications as well.