so i can't use 2nd curtain without a canon flash?

[craiglee]

so unless i used a canon flash, i can't use 2nd curtain. even if i use a vivitar, or PW or cybersync. that's stupid.

[cdifoto]

Who told you that load of rubbish?

[craiglee]

my camera

[cdifoto]

Well it doesn't have to be Canon branded but it does have to be E-TTL.

[craiglee]

exactly. 285hv does not use ettl. neither does CS or PW.

[cdifoto]

In your OP you simply said Vivitar. You didn't say what model. You also said CANON ONLY. Which isn't true. Canon is not the only manufacturer of E-TTL flash units.

[craiglee]

sorry about that. so no way around this issue then?

[cdifoto]

Sure. Don't let in any ambient light. Then you won't have a light trail, so it won't matter.

[craiglee]

well i'm gonna need 2nd curtain. guess i gotta buy a 430ex.

[cdifoto]

You don't need a 430EX. Just as long as it's E-TTL. Vivitar, Sigma, Canon, Phoenix, and other brands are available. Canon's the better bet if it's meant to be long term though (versus a quick fix for a one-off project), IMHO.

[craiglee]

430ex is just my preference. i've had 2 before.

[cdifoto]

I don't know what you're trying to do or how much power/features you need, but Vivitar makes a DF-22C that's E-TTL. It's like Canon's 220EX except it bounces (doesn't swivel) and only costs $35 at B&H.

[craiglee]

i need as much power i can get with manual control.

[CliveyBoy]

A Canon 550EX sells at about $150-200 on eBay.

[cdifoto]

Yeah you won't want a DF22 or even a 430EX then. You'll need a 550 or 580.