Sigma EF-500 DG Super Help

repeat -- Flash Exposure Lock separates the pre-flash from the exposure, allows this to work.

Kind of kludgy but, yes, you can get it to work that way.

What are the ways to elimiate the pre-flash?

The only way I know of to do this is to use Flash Exposure Lock (FEL) which is the * button, assuming that Custom Function 4 is set to 0 (on a 20D -- this doesn't matter on a d-rebel). Frame the photo, press * -- the pre-flash will go off and the camera will determine exposure. Note that the pre-flash will trigger the sigma (if it's in manual slave mode). Now wait a few seconds, enough to allow the sigma to recharge, and then take the picture. Only a single flash will go off, and the sigma will fire in synch with the camera's flash.

you will have to do some fiddling to get the exposure right from the on-camera flash.


good luck,

Since all you guys are sigma experts =) ... I too have a 420ex... and I really wanted to buy a 580ex as a Master to Salve my 420. I wanted to try and save a little Cash, and i wanted to know if the Sigma Super can be a MASTER to the 420ex? I wanted to use the Singma ON my camera hotshoe, and use the 420 as a fill flash. I actually wanted to buy another 420 or even two sigma supers. Any advise? Im trying to create a mobile portrait studio. Also, let me know if this is a bad idea, and if i should stick with studio strobes. Im really trying to take advantage of ETTL and not use a light meter. (also stay portable)

Thanks, David. I tried it and it works for me!
On closer look, using the FEL triggers the Sigma to fire off a redundant flash because, as explained above, the FEL has separated the pre-flash.

Yes, the Sigma Super can master to a slave 420.

-daniel

can the sigma still ETTL-II ? Any objections as to performance compared to the 580ex? I know there is a huge cost difference here... but im willing to give a non-canon brand a shot if it can meet my needs in a Master/Slave setup using FULL ETTL/ETTL-II. Im doing portraits the lazy way, and i figure id save the $ not buying a flash meter.

The sigma super is advertised as being able to do ETTL-II. I have never owned a 580, so I can't make a direct comparison, but I am thoroughly enjoying my sigma super. I've gotten some great shots with my 420 as a slave and will be using that combo in an upcoming wedding. If I didn't think I could rely on this combo, I certainly wouldn't consider using it for a wedding shoot.

-daniel

Thanks for the advise daze! I think im gona give the sigma a shot... Quick question tho... When you are NOT doing wireless shooting (master/slave).. Which flash unit do you usually have on ur hotshoe as your carry around flash? , sigma or your 420ex.? I know the sigma is more powerful, i was just thinking since you didnt buy a slave version of the 420ex, you might be using that when ur not shooting mater/slave? =) thanks

sorry... ...buy a slave version of the 420ex, you might be using that when ur not shooting mater/slave? =) thanks
I was trying to say salve version of the Sigma (non super version)

I'm not sure I understand ...but to answer your question, I have mostly kept the sigma on when not using wireless 2-flash set-up. Mostly because its the new flash and I wanted to get some experience with it. I've never had a problem with the 420 not being powerful enough though. For everything I've ever used it for, its had plenty of light output. I have left the sigma on for normal use though, so that if I decide to grab the slave (420), the master is already in place, it is more powerful and offers more manual control. Downside is that its big and bulky compared to the 420.

-daniel