For years, my Tether Tools TetherTable was my go-to setup. It was solid, dependable and it just worked. I honestly didn’t think I needed anything different—until I got my hands on the new AeroTrac Workstation system. Now, after using it for the last week, I can say it’s not just a replacement for the TetherTable—it’s an upgrade I didn’t know I was missing.
First Impressions
The AeroTrac has that same rock-solid feel I trusted in the TetherTable, but it’s smarter. The design is more adaptable and it just makes sense for how I work. Whether I’m shooting in the studio or on location, it gives me a cleaner, more efficient workflow.
My Favorite Add-Ons
The real game-changer for me has been the accessories:
- Retractable Accessory Holder (aka the bottle holder): I know it’s meant for “accessories,” but let’s be honest—it’s the perfect drink holder. Coffee, water, whatever I need to keep me going on set—it’s always right there.
- Tech Straps: These little guys might not look flashy, but they keep my battery pack or power brick tidy and out of the way. No more tripping hazards or messy tangles.
- AeroTrac Hooks: Perfect for keeping my Tether Cable neatly wrapped up underneath my table instead of wrapped around my feet.
- Leg Kit: Technically, it’s meant so the AeroTrac can sit securely on top of a desk. But I found another use—it works great as a cable guide. Sometimes the best gear is the stuff you can repurpose in ways the designers might not have even thought of.
On Set Experience
Since switching over, my workflow feels smoother. Everything has its place, my cables are under control and the whole setup just feels dialed in. It’s like moving from “good enough” to “this makes my life easier every time I use it.”
Final Thoughts
If you’re still rocking a TetherTable, I get it—it’s a great piece of gear. But the AeroTrac takes everything I loved about it and makes it better. For me, the switch was absolutely worth it. And yes, that bottle holder might be my favorite new “essential.”
Author: Will Prentice
A portrait, fine art and commercial photographer for 30 plus years, Will Prentice is not just a contributor to PHOTONews magazine, but also host of PHOTONewsTV, owner of Captura Photography+Imaging and Technical Support/Brand Manager for Amplis Foto, Canada’s largest distributor of photographic equipment.
Will teaches photographers of all skill levels how to improve their craft – from creative photo projects to picking the right gear for their needs to flattering lighting to getting the best expressions to creating final images for screen and print. His unique style of highly detailed images with perfect tonality, wide dynamic range and stunning colour is instantly recognizable. Commercial clients rely on Will’s creative eye and mastery of lighting.
When he’s not behind the camera or in front of a class, you’ll find Will outdoors in any weather – usually on one of his bikes or enjoying time with his grandchildren.
