Sigma 500-EF Super DG Flash

[jcsorensen]

Does anyone know if this flash can be operated in the 100 percent manual mode, i.e. non E-TTL mode? In other words, can the pre-flash be turned off? I'm considering using this flash to trigger two other optical-slave flashes--which is almost impossible to do if the pre-flash cannot be turned off somehow.

I could always use flash exposure lock to fire the pre-flash (pre-flash will not fire then when the actual pictures is taken) but then I have to wait for the slaves to recharge before taking the actual picture and my subjects will probably not like the delay. (I have tried this using the built-in flash as the trigger--while awkward, it does work--and unfortunately you cannot turn off the pre-flash of the built-in flash)

I know the Canon 550-EX would be the flash of choice, but some of us do have budgets and wives to consider.

[bluebomberx]

Yes, it has a manual mode.

[Littlebike]

Well, the cool thing about the Sigma flash you are buying is it is completely compatible with the 550ex, 420ex, and the STE-2 transmitter. So you master/slave any combination of the above equipment.

I have a 550ex as my main flash and intend to purchase Sigmas to complete my collection.

I dont think optical slaves will fit my needs and fear IR will not do the trick either. I think I need to get Radio slaves but wonder if those are E-ttl.

[slin100]

None of the radio slaves are E-TTL.

[Littlebike]

Thanks for the information, I will now go lay in the corner and cry.

Then again, though, that means I can use comparably cheap Vivitar 283 flashes for all my slaves. So, I suppose there is an upside.

I do think I will buy a Sigma flash for other occassions just for simplicity and indoor use.

[slin100]

Vivitar is an excellent choice.

Getting back to the Sigma, if you search hard enough you will find that there are a few differences.

The ones I see mentioned most often include:

- Losing the settings when turned off
- Dropping out of high-speed sync mode when shutter speed drops below X-sync speed
- AF illuminator covers only center AF sensor
- Cheaper build quality