----- Original Message ----- From: "Vic Mortelmans" Subject: Pentax LX, auto/TTL flash and slow speeds
> Hi, > > Using my AF280T on my LX, I notice that there's no way to combine > auto/TTL functions with slow speeds. The camera always switches to the > flash sync speed, and I don't find a way to override this. > > I can use my Spotmatic or ES combined with the same flash in auto mode > to get slow speeds with flash, but it's a pity I cannot do so with the > advanced metering (especially in low light) of my LX. > > I guess I could use any non-Pentax automatic flash to do the same on the > LX, in a way 'fooling' the LX in thinking there's no flash on. But then > there's the question of compatibility: the LX should at least properly > sync with the flash! > > Any advices on what type of flash I could be looking for (preferrably a > cheapish model on the second hand market)? Remember with the LX you are dealing with relatively old technology, and flash was it's Achilles heel, so to speak. I never liked the way the LX handled flash, as it has an annoying habit of not firing the flash in backlit situations. Having said that, the LX does sync properly with your 280T, but Pentax chose to lock the way the camera works with dedicated flash units. If you don't like the way it works with a dedicated flash, then go to a basic auto flash instead. I believe you can disable the forced sync by covering the small pin to the left of the sync terminal on the hot shoe. My own advice would be to use a good quality non dedicated flash such as a Vivitar 285. William Robb -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List [email protected] http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
