help with 430 EX II

[Ralphmyster]

New to this could do with some help.I brought a canon 430EX II and put it on my 400d on the display on the flash it told me affective range handy. i just brought a 50d and it dose not display apiture or range any help would be very helpful thanks. sorry if dumb question :bonk:

 

[recrudesce]

According to the manual:

1 Press the <MODE> button so that <M> is displayed.
2 Set the flash output.
&#56256;&#56352; Press the <SET> button.
&#56256;&#56408; The flash output display will blink.
&#56256;&#56352; Press the <+/-> button to set the flash output, then press the <SET> button.
&#56256;&#56352; Press the shutter button halfway to see the effective flash range displayed.

 

[HoppyUK]

Welcome to TP RalphM

The flash works on the 50D in exactly the same way as on the 400D. 430EXII is a very good gun with lots of features and modes. Can get confusing - have a good read of the handbook.

 

[Ralphmyster]

well after playing with the modes still could no change but if by chance i changed the flash head from upwards bounce to straight forward then there the readings where :bonk: WHY?

 

[HoppyUK]

well after playing with the modes still could no change but if by chance i changed the flash head from upwards bounce to straight forward then there the readings where :bonk: WHY?

Because when the flash is fired direct, all the various factors affecting range and exposure are known and a rough calculation can be made.

When you bounce the flash, it has no idea what you are bouncing off, how high it is, or if it is clean white, all of which will make a big difference, so it cannot estimate range.

It cannot estimate exposure either, and even if you are an expert these kind of calculations are extremely difficult. You need to fire the pre flash with the * button, or take a test pic.

 

[Ralphmyster]

Thanks a lot i did think it was something like that. and with your help i now know cheers