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4.6 Manual flash mode
Set “A” aperture priority or the manual mode “M” or “X” on the camera.
Select the aperture and shutter speed (with “M”) on the camera according to
the given photographic situation (see the camera’s operating instructions).
4.6.1 Manual flash mode M with full light output
In this mode the mecablitz always fires uncontrolled flashes at full light out-
put. Adaptation to the given photographic situation is by selecting a corres-
ponding aperture setting on the camera. When using Group A cameras, the
mecablitz LC display will indicate the flash-to-subject distance required for a
correct exposure (see also 5.4.2).
Setting procedure for the manual flash mode M
• Turn on the mecablitz by its main switch.
• Continue depressing the “Mode” key until “M” flashes on the LC display.
• The setting becomes immediately effective. The LC display returns to its nor-
mal state after approx. 5 sec.
4.6.2 Manual flash mode MLo with partial light output
In this mode the flash unit always fires uncontrolled flashes at 1/8th (Low) of
its full light output. Adaptation to the photographic situation is by selecting a
corresponding aperture setting on the camera. When using Group A came-
ras, the mecablitz LC display will indicate the flash-to-subject distance re-
quired for correct exposure (see also 5.4.2).
Setting procedure for the manual flash mode MLo
• Turn on the mecablitz by its main switch.
• Continue depressing the “Mode” key until “MLo” flashes on the LC display.
• The setting becomes immediately effective. The LC display returns to its nor-
mal state after approx. 5 sec.
4.7 Flash techniques
4.7.1 Bounce flash
Photos shot with full frontal flash are easily recognized by their harsh, dense
shadows. This is often associated with a sharp drop in light from the fore-
ground to the background. This phenomenon can be avoided with bounce
flash because the diffused light will produce a soft and uniform rendition of
both the subject and the background. For this situation the reflector is turned
in such a manner that the flash is bounced off a suitable reflective surface
(e.g. ceiling or wall of the room).
The reflector can be turned vertically up to 90°. The reflector head is mecha-
nically interlocked in its basic position. Press the pushbutton to unlock and
turn the reflector head.
When turning the reflector vertically, it is essential to ensure that it is moved
by a sufficiently wide angle so that direct light can no longer fall on the sub-
ject. Consequently, always turn the reflector at least to the 60° lock-in posi-
tion. The distance readings on the LC display will disappear. The flash-to-
subject distance via the ceiling or wall is an unknown magnitude.
The light bounced off the reflecting surfaces produces a soft and uniform illu-
mination of the subject. The reflecting surface must be white or have a neu-
tral colour, and it must not be structured (e.g. wooden beams in a ceiling) as
these might cause shadows. For colour effects just select the reflective surface
in the desired colour.
Take into account that the maximum flash range is considerably dimi-
nished when bouncing the flash. The following rule of thumb will help
you determine the maximum flash range for a room of normal height:
guide number
Maximum flash range = —————————————
lighting distance x 2
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