Digital Rebel Flash Exposure Compensation

[Curtis N]

Whenever I use flash with my Digital Rebel/300D, the info window shows an icon just to the right of the exposure compensation icon - very similar but with the lightning bolt in it. It appears to be indicating flash exposure compensation (always +/-0). It shows up whether I use the built-in flash or my Promaster 7500DX flash attached.

There is no mention of this icon in the manual, nor is there any mention of flash exposure compensation.

I'm frustrated because exposure compensation seems to do nothing when taking flash pictures with this camera. Aperture may change slightly, but certainly less than the 2 stops either direction one would expect. The histograms look identical whether the exposure comp is -2, 0 or +2.

Is there a way to compensate without putting both the flash and the camera in manual mode?

[lostdoggy]

I just decided to hack the firmware on my Drebel because I'm planning on buying the 20D. Anyway, the hack is the only way you can get FEC. As faras I know. Which is great. It also allows me to shoot in Av mode @ 1/200 with a Flash.

[RichardtheSane]

Is the promaster and ETTL compatible flash?

[Hellashot]

Are you using the hacked firmware? That's the only way that in-camera FEC is available for the Drebel. That's why it's not in the manual.

[Curtis N]

Is the promaster an E-TTL compatible flash?

Yes. It's a fully dedicated flash unit with E-TTL capability. I can also use it in manual mode and dial in the flash power, from 1/64 to full power.