Speedlite 430EX AF assist function

I was wondering is there anyway for me to shoot with the AF assist activated but the flash don't fire?

I noticed that with the af assist led, my camera focus a lot faster and more accurately esp in low light conditions. But there are times when i would like to capture the ambient light without using the flash to spoil the mood./EMAIL]

I haven't been in my Custom Functions for awhile but I believe that's specific to camera body - allowing that to be done. I don't think it's a flash Custom Function.

In other words, if you can't set "Emits/Does not fire" (or similar wording) within the camera's custom functions, then it is not possible.

There is a custom function on the 20D, 30D and other models to disable the the flash while allowing the AF assist light to work, but I don't think it's available on the 350D or 400D.

Is it custom function 7 on the 30d?

rwong2k wrote in post #2670034
Is it custom function 7 on the 30d?

Yes. C.Fn. 7 set to 1 will prevent the flash from firing, and C.Fn. 5 set to 0 for AF Assist.

In the case of 400D, is there a device (3rd party) I can purchase to do the job?

Gaffer's tape over the flash head?

Sorry. This question was raised a few weeks ago and no one came up with an answer other than the ST-E2 transmitter, which is a fairly expensive solution.

The ST-E2 is only $210 at B&H Photo, that would free up your 480 for better shots when you ultimately want to use flash, taking it off camera for that "pro" look. That would give you the led focus help , lighter and smaller as well.
Just a thought.