> -----Original Message----- > From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:owner-eos@;a1.nl]On Behalf Of Jay D. > Washington > Sent: Friday, October 25, 2002 8:08 PM > To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] > Subject: EOS Flash Meter and triggering device for 550EXs > > > I have two 550EX flash units and an ST-E2, but am looking to find a better > way to get consistent lighting in a studio setting with light and dark > subjects (amateur only, not heavy studio usage). I'm thinking > the best way > would be to set the flashes manually, but to do this and be > accurate, I need > a good flash meter. Anyone have a suggestion on a good flash meter and/or > auto triggering set up? I believe I could press the test button on my > ST-E2, but I don't think the ST-E2 will let me set the flashes for manual > output--this feature (wireless manual flash) is only available > with a 550EX > as master on the camera. ST-E2 seems out of the picture for me if I want > manual flash control. I'd prefer not to have to run around and fire each > flash individually or have some sort of set up with cords running all over > the place. > > Thanks, JD >
Hi JD, I don't use 550EX flash heads but used in manual mode you will have complete control over their output. In any event used manually the idea should be the same as conventional studio flash. Set up your lights, trigger each light one at a time to find out how much light you are getting on your subject using a flash meter, adjust the output of your lights and/or the position of the lights until you get the ratio and light on the subject area that makes you happy. I like the Seikonic L-358 and Minolta Autometer IV meters. IMO the Seikonic is easier to use in the studio with studio style flash lights and offers features for flash use that the much less expensive Minolta Autometer lacks. Both meters can be triggered by popping the flash or by a sync cord but the Seikonic can also act as a trigger for radio slaved lights with the optional Pocket Wizard compatible radio module (a good deal if you are going to go this way). This is really neat if you use Pocket Wizard slaves and triggers but can add up to a LOT of money very fast. So this would make it less likely to be useful for infrequent studio style lighting users. Of course on the other hand if you are only using the flash setup once in a while and could use a good solid incident light meter in the field for sports, portraits scenic etc. the Minolta Autometer IV is faster handling, smaller and easier to use while still providing the essentials for metering flash light sources in the studio. This is an easy choice to make for a person with no flash meter capable meters. Pick the one that fits your use better, if you plan to use the flash setup regularly the extra calculation features of the Seikonic may be the way to go. If you are only going to use it once in a while in a studio type setup but could use a good handheld in the field the Minolta may be better suited for you. Cheers/Chip * **** ******* *********************************************************** * For list instructions, including unsubscribe, see: * http://www.a1.nl/phomepag/markerink/eos_list.htm ***********************************************************
