Flash questions

I have a 30D and 430ex, I can set the flash 1st/2nd curtain sync in the camera (custom function) or in the flash unit, does the custom function in the camera have any effect on the flash or is it only for the built in flash? Also, what metering do you guys use most often with your hotshoe flash, evaluative or average?

Thanks

Well I did some playing around and to answer my own question, no the custom function in the camera does not control 1st/2nd sync curtain in the flash unit. However FEC in the camera does control FEC in the flash unit if the flash FEC is set to 0, if the flash unit has FEC other than 0, this value overrides whatever the camera's FEC setting is.

Those are correct answers to your own questions.

As for your final question, I generally use average flash metering when flash is the primary light source, and evaluative for fill flash. Official documentation on the differences between them is scarce, so I don't know why it works better that way. I just know that it does.

Curtis N wrote in post #2751168
Those are correct answers to your own questions.

As for your final question, I generally use average flash metering when flash is the primary light source, and evaluative for fill flash. Official documentation on the differences between them is scarce, so I don't know why it works better that way. I just know that it does.

This may sound dumb but I can't figure out how to change the flash metering? Is this done in the flash unit? I also have a couple more questions:

What is the little bottom piece bracket that comes with the flash for (430ex)?

I'm confused about the retractable widepanel on the flash, what is considered 'wide' or when should I use it? I have a 17-55 lens, if I'm shooting at 17mm or 24mm, should I be using the panel?

thanks!

fredmitcham wrote in post #2755193
This may sound dumb but I can't figure out how to change the flash metering? Is this done in the flash unit?

Custom Function 14 on your 30D.

It's just a stand for when you use it as a slave.

Without the wide panel extended, the flash will zoom to cover a 24mm lens on a full frame camera, or a 15mm lens on your 30D. So you won't need it with direct flash, but you may want to use it when bouncing, to spread the light more and illuminate a larger area of the ceiling.

Thanks!

Curtis N wrote in post #2751168
Official documentation on the differences between them is scarce, so I don't know why it works better that way. I just know that it does.

You expect Canon or anyone else to explain the twisted, secret voodoo of Evaluative metering in their camera logic ? ! ? ! ? !

what about the rest of you, what flash metering do you usually find most effective?

Since I don't fully understand the flash metering I just leave it on Evaluative. I have changed to Averaging and can't say I noticed a difference.