Canon on camera flash E-TTL issue

Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L USM

04/27/2008 06:34:37 PM · #1

Does the built in the flash on the rebel XT always shoot E-TTL? If so, is there anyway to disable it and use it manually. Even when i manually adjust the power i still get underexposure in certain circumstances.

Is the only way around this to use an external flash like the 430/580?

Nullix

Canon EOS-5D Mark III

04/27/2008 07:03:21 PM · #2

Wow, this is truly a question I have never heard/read. I am truly amazed.

First thought/guess, yes, it shoots in e-ttl. I don't think there's a way to use it in manual mode. There only way you can is to +/- the flash exposure, but I'm not certain if that's available with the XT (I know you can with the other prosumer models - 40D and such).

If you do get the 580ex, you'll be able to use it in manual mode. Of course, you're only able to set the power. If you're looking at going manual mode, I would suggest you my a cheap flash and work with it the strobist way.

EDIT: I don't think the 430ex allows manual mode settings.

Message edited by author 2008-04-27 19:04:15.

04/27/2008 07:27:38 PM · #3

I'm looking at getting the 430/580 for myself soon. The two basic pentax external flashes i have can go fully manual and overide the pentax P-TTL system. They can also shoot P-TTL remotely :) Are you saying the basic canon 430 model can only shoot e-ttl?

04/27/2008 08:42:00 PM · #4

bump

muz64

Canon EOS-1D X

Canon EF 50mm f1.2L

04/27/2008 08:42:13 PM · #5

I have a 430ex and it shoots manual - in 1 stop increments (ie from: 1:1, 1/2, 1/4 ... 1/64)

Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L USM

04/27/2008 09:26:58 PM · #6

Originally posted by muz64:

I have a 430ex and it shoots manual - in 1 stop increments (ie from: 1:1, 1/2, 1/4 ... 1/64)

Ok thanks! I may have to get a 430 to resolve this. Is the 580 much more powerful though?

Nullix

Canon EOS-5D Mark III

04/27/2008 11:16:01 PM · #7

Originally posted by dmadden:

Originally posted by muz64:
I have a 430ex and it shoots manual - in 1 stop increments (ie from: 1:1, 1/2, 1/4 ... 1/64)

Ok thanks! I may have to get a 430 to resolve this. Is the 580 much more powerful though?

Yes, the 430 and 580 are Guide Numbers. Basically, the 580 has more power than the 430. I have the 550, but I'm sure it's the same as the 580 (except for the interface). It also has a manual mode at 1 stop increments.

IMO, Canon isn't really great at manual flashes. I'd be great if you can punch in the ISO and aperature to get some better calculations on it, but you can't. Just set the power level.

That's why I gave you the strobist link. If you want to go manual, buy a cheap manual flash and spend your money on the wireless. Here's what your Flash should have. Canon flashes don't come with a PC connection.