TTL flash and the G6

[Superbaldguy]

After combing through the G6 manual, I can't find anything about the camera integrating with TTL flash metering, but it must have it if the newer Speedlites can be used. Why does Canon purposely NOT expound on this useful feature? Is this too complicated for the average shooter?

Does anyone sue the 550EX with the G6 (or any other G-series) camera? Seems a bit top-heavy, but I'd like to hear how well it works.

[jimsolt]

After combing through the G6 manual, I can't find anything about the camera integrating with TTL flash metering, but it must have it if the newer Speedlites can be used. Why does Canon purposely NOT expound on this useful feature? Is this too complicated for the average shooter?

Does anyone sue the 550EX with the G6 (or any other G-series) camera? Seems a bit top-heavy, but I'd like to hear how well it works.

Sounds like a question I asked not long ago. In the 420 EX manual they list features applicable to EOS cameras of either TYPE A (E-TTL) with a list of cameras in that category (no mention of any G Series camera) or TYPE B (TTL) with the notation All other EOS cameras other than the above.

According to Jon in response to my question --

"As to flash compatibility, the G5 brochure says it's E-TTL compatible, which is the big feature of the EX-series of flashes. "

I'm betting the G6 has this capability also, since it seems to be designed to have more, not fewer capabilities than the G5. I'm of the opinion that the G6 does in fact have E-TTL capabilities, and I'm certain it works quite well with the 420EX.

As to Canon's reasons for keeping this characteristic a secret, who knows? I agree they do this.

Jim

[Superbaldguy]

That's exactly my point. The G6 must be TTL flash capable as that's the only way these newer strobes could work (unless you fumbled with manual output control). However, the instruction manual simply says the G6 is compatible with the 420EX, 550EX, and the new 580 EX. Maybe Canon wanted to keep it simple.

I'm not impressed with the built-in flash so this is why I'd be interested in auxiliary lighting, preferably the 550EX as I could use this with both the G6 and my two EOS A2 bodies.

[Soyboy]

According to Steve's Digicams review of the camera it is:

"The G6 is fully compatible with Canon's powerful EX-series Speedlites and E-TTL wireless flash accessories. On top is a flash hot shoe with dedicated TTL contacts for the Canon EX series automatic speedlights."

According to the Digital Camera Review web page:

"External flash Hot-shoe (E-TTL with EX series Speedlites, wireless multi-flash support) "

That's why I am purchasing one myself, so I can use my EX flash.

Denman

[sammywind]

The 550EX does work with the G6. I'm very happy with it so far...1 day. There are a few functions that do not work, but I knew that before purchasing... like the IR focus assist beam. It is top heavy but produces nice results. You can actually hold the flash to support the camera. Flash output is nicely adjustable from the camera menu as well as the flash itself. More features work than I antisipated. Strobe functionality does work with the G6!

[Superbaldguy]

I decided to get the 220EX, as I already have the older 540EZ for my EOS film cameras. These larger flashes are too cumbersome on the little G6. If I have to shoot something that requires a powerful flash, I'll use my film gear.

Thanks for the input.

[bauerman]

Yeah - but what you are missing with the 220EX is the ULTIMATE feature of the 420EX and higher - TILT and SWIVEL. I could not do without those features - bounced flash has been a serious boon to my indoor photography as of late. 220 is nice and small - but you pay for that in useability......I don't find the 420EX to be that cumbersome on my G5 - not too bad at all actually.

[bunnyz]

I just received my G6 and am still fooling around with it. I tried my 580 EX on it and it was quite a laugh. The flash is bigger then the camera and the 550EX is larger then the 580. It works fine but small was what I am looking for. In my opinion if it is the only camera you own then go for the swivel if you can handle the size. Straight on could be modified with a diffuser for softer light. I don't know what I am going to do yet. I have the ST E2 so an extra flash for the slave wouldn't be wasted. I think I would need the 420ex for that.
The information here is great. Thanks everyone for participating.
bunnyz

[Nabil-A]

I have a G6 and a 420ex. When attached, the 420ex ettl LED should light up.. According to the 420ex manual, this light indicates ettl compatibility. All the zoom motor features should also work.

The G6 can take a flash shot up to 1/2000 of a sec with high speed flash synchro activated on the mounted 420ex.

About the only thing that wont work is the group slave and channel slave features and the low light IR focus beams, but their not supposed to work with the G6.

Otherwise, the flash is fab.

I especially love the swivel and bounce features though, very handy.

As far as the size goes, i have it mounted on my camera almost all the time, with my lensmate 52mm adapter and hoya uv 52mm lens protector. Tend to place the polariser under the UV filter when going out in daylight. I think it makes me look like a pro.... looks real beefy..... :)

:( :( :(
noww.... if only i can figure out how to turn the damn thing on... :lol: :lol: :lol:

[Superbaldguy]

I'm sure the 550/580 flashes work great with the G6 but, goodness, they are so topheavy and do not handle that well. The little 220EX is a better fit, at least from a handling point of view. If I didn't have a complete film system, the 420EX would be an ideal choice, IMHO.