Wireless Flash - Manual Mode

So i bought a pair on Yongnuos RF-602s thinking, dang these are a lot cheaper than pocket wizards. I knew that they didn't shoot E-TTL but i figured i would just adjust power levels through trial and error. Um... That deemed to be much harder than i thought. So, I wouldn't like to just give up and buy Pocket Wizards, I'd like to actually learn how to master using my flash in manual mode. Anyone have any suggestions or tips on improving my pictures?

Not sure what the problem you're having is. Maybe I don't understand your post.
The RF602s simply trigger the flash to fire, and work fine up to 1/200s.
You should be able to adjust the power level/zoom on your 580ex to control the light.
I started with a manual flash (YN460ii), RF602s, and just played with it. My cat was a very relaxed subject for me to practice on, especially low key lighting with a reflective umbrella. It was fun to learn, probably because I didn't shoot TTL before manual. Probably like learning to drive stick first, and then automatics.

Maybe post some pics so others can chime in with specifics.

LoganStanford wrote in post #12674376
So i bought a pair on Yongnuos RF-602s thinking, dang these are a lot cheaper than pocket wizards. I knew that they didn't shoot E-TTL but i figured i would just adjust power levels through trial and error. Um... That deemed to be much harder than i thought. So, I wouldn't like to just give up and buy Pocket Wizards, I'd like to actually learn how to master using my flash in manual mode. Anyone have any suggestions or tips on improving my pictures?

A light meter along with the RF602's is going to make the journey a little easier. (Sekonic L358 or ??) Without the meter you get to pick the flash power setting and then guess the ISO/Shutter/Aperture on your camera...

Hope this helps,

110yd

LoganStanford wrote in post #12674376
I'd like to actually learn how to master using my flash in manual mode. Anyone have any suggestions or tips on improving my pictures?

First off - do you know how to use the histogram on your camera? That should give you a very handy way of understanding what the exposure actually is in a pinch.

Secondly - have you tried a light meter? I'm seriously considering picking one up, now that I'm adding more lights.

+ 1 for the light meter, I have a Kenko 1100, they tookover minoltas meters.
couldn't afford/justify a sekonic. it is amazing how when yo meter simple things like ambient how you pics and meter readings in camera are different for different subjects, like white and dark flowers in same scene.
It will help with ratios too as many say here saves time.
What is your budget?

TheBurningCrown wrote in post #12675423
First off - do you know how to use the histogram on your camera? That should give you a very handy way of understanding what the exposure actually is in a pinch.

Secondly - have you tried a light meter? I'm seriously considering picking one up, now that I'm adding more lights.

1. Yes, I do know how to read a histogram
2. I haven't tried a light meter... how much money are we talking?

That all depends you want something like a sekonic, minolta/kenko.
start around $150 upwards depending on model.

LoganStanford wrote in post #12676203
1. Yes, I do know how to read a histogram

That's a good starting point. You can check for highlights and bring the whole exposure down in post if you need to.

ukcyberboy wrote in post #12676365
start around $150 upwards depending on model.

I've heard good things about the Luna Pro-F, which you can get on KEH for ~$90.

All light meters are good, but for a starting point I would go with a used sekonic, kenko or minolta VF.

Strobist.com. David Hobby talks about this, his whole approach is Lighting in Layers. Dial each flash in individually.

TheBurningCrown wrote in post #12678064
That's a good starting point. You can check for highlights and bring the whole exposure down in post if you need to.

I've heard good things about the Luna Pro-F, which you can get on KEH for ~$90.

I have a luna pro F and while its given me years of faithful service, if you are spending that much go a bit further and get the sekonic L358 or L308.

gonzogolf wrote in post #12678233
if you are spending that much go a bit further and get the sekonic L358 or L308.

"A bit further" is three times the price for the L-358...

I like my Kenko kfm1100 but there is still the minolta.
See what they go for on ebay.

TheBurningCrown wrote in post #12678306
"A bit further" is three times the price for the L-358...

I've seen them go used for $150 so a bit further is accurate in my mind.

go to http://www.strobist.bl​ogspot.com/ read thru lighting 101 and then lighting 102 it's free and it should get you on the right track