Speedlite sync question

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Mike410

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Mike
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Hi there,

I was using a Canon 430 ex II with a pair of Calumet radio triggers which have a sync speed of 1/250.

When I went above the max sync speed, I was confused as to why there was banding, but not a complete black off.

Here is a picture as an example at 1/750 sec:

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/46277518/IMG_9807.jpg

As you can see, the flash has been cut off due to banding, but I would have thought there would be a complete black off (half the frame black from shutter)? The ambient light is still showing.

Is this because on a very sunny day, there is enough ambient to make a full exposure, even if the flash is cut short due to max sync speed?

Thanks in advance!

Mike
 
Mike410 said:
Is this because on a very sunny day, there is enough ambient to make a full exposure, even if the flash is cut short due to max sync speed?
Click to expand...
Yes, you've just encountered every location shooters' dilemma on a sunny day, whilst using flash.

You would have to drop the ambient exposure further. Either through closing down the aperture, using a neutral density filter, or high speed sync for an even faster shutter speed. The latter you only get with a sync cord of TTL-compatible trigger systems. All of these "eat" flash-power. Alternatively, you'd use a camera with an electro-mechanical hybrid- or a leaf-shutter mechanism.
 
Ah ok thanks. I was wondering why I wasnt seeing the shutter banding!
 
Mike410 said:
Ah ok thanks. I was wondering why I wasnt seeing the shutter banding!
Click to expand...
No, it is there. There is quite the cut-off between the portion of the face that received flash and the portion that is only lit by ambient.
 
Also, the triggers might run up to 1/250sec, but only with a camera with a sync speed that fast. Your 500D synchs at 1/200sec max.
 
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