Fill Flash

[Heffo]

I have a canon 10d and 420ex flash, how do I set it up as 'fill flash'?

[slejhamer]

If you shoot in Av or Tv modes, the camera will automatically meter for fill. You can further adjust the fill intensity using FEC.

[scottbergerphoto]

The most consistent way to use fill flash is to take the camera out of the equation as far as determining how to adjust the relationship between ambient and flash. I suggest you:
1. Disable the Automatic reduction of fill flash in Custom functions.*
*If your camera doesn't have this Custom Function, put the camera in Manual Mode, and leave the flash in ETTL/II.
2. Set the camera to Manual mode and set your ambient exposure using the camera meter.
3. Set FEC on the camera body(not available on the body of the 420EX) to from minus 1 to minus 1 and 2/3.
4. Adjust the FEC up and down to see what you like.
The historical expert on this technique is the late Galen Rowell. You can learn alot about flash techniques from "The Nikon Flash Guide" by Thom Hogan.
Regards,
Scott

[blinking8s]

what about with the 300d?

[scottbergerphoto]

what about with the 300d?
The 300D without the hack doesn't have FEC. You need a 550EX so you can set FEC on the flash or the hacked firmware which I cannot speak to.
Scott

[Su-Hannie]

great stuff!!!

[BOUNCINGNRG]

what about the 400D, i'm using the Sigma 550 Super

[Pete]

what about the 400D, i'm using the Sigma 550 Super

Theres a CF function for flash sync. Set it so that it says "Auto" (not 1/200). Then use the technique above.

[blueroioq]

you have FEC control both in your 400d and sigma
you can control FEC in your camera or in your flash

[canonpink]

Whatever camera is being used, if you intend to use fill flash, check your custom functions and see if you have an ETTL option for evaluation or average. If so, evaluative is best for fill flash, average for main-light flash.