I got
this one Simon, it's an RC-1.
For most applications of remote shooting you'll have focus set manually, or when setting up, use the auto to let it find focus and then don't touch it.
I doubt whether you have to be *right* in front of the camera, i'm sure it works from the side? I don't know..
Mine arrived in the mail today so i'll let you know after I test it tonight.
The wired remote has limited uses too, so neither is 100% what you want. For the type of shooting i'll be doing, the wireless suits me better.