430ex Question

[mnez17]

Hi,

Just purchased the 430ex, do most of you utilize the zoom function to match the focal lenght ? Also, what are some good rechargeable batteries for the unit ?

[mwvt9]

This will happen automatically unless you choose to override it. If I am shooting into an umbrella I have used the maunal setting to go as wide as possible.

Not sure about the batteries.

[fredlef]

I was wondering about this too. I don't always see it happen and I'm not sure why. Most of the time it just stays blank - or appears to. Have i messsed up a setting somewhere? Thanks.
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Canon 30D, 28-135 shopping for 50mm and 70-200 or 70-300

[Mazu]

I think when bouncing the flash it shows no zoom length and goes automatically to 50mm.

[fredlef]

Oh that could be it - I'll check it out - thanks

[fredlef]

After dealing with the fun of my real job another question occurred to me. Figuring out the flash in detail is a real challenge but not one that I an afford to put off. If bouncing the flash is it important at all to set the zoom manually? Or can you just ignore it?

Thanks for your help

[Big Mike]

If you are bouncing a long way (high ceiling) then you might want to manually zoom it to the max (tightest beam)...other wise, I just leave it on auto.

[fredlef]

Thanks!

[Curtis N]

If bouncing the flash is it important at all to set the zoom manually? Or can you just ignore it?Keep in mind that the whole idea of bounced flash (usually) is to create soft, shadowless light by turning the ceiling into a large apparent light source. So it stands to reason that using a short zoom setting on the flash will spread the light out more, create a larger hot spot on the ceiling and thus softer shadows.

In many cases the difference is hardly noticeable, but sometimes it will be.

This thread has quite a discussion about it:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=451770

This post shows my comparison of flash output with different zoom settings:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showpost.php?p=4901409&postcount=36

This post illustrates the potential difference in the image:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showpost.php?p=4910503&postcount=76

[greku69]

I using 4 rechargeable battery 2100mAh for my flash and they work for looooong time...
sametimes change for fujicell 2700mAh still good ...