Original message from Bill Miller:
>I just purchased a Sunpak Flash which supports TTL in program and auto
>mode.
>1). Should I set the the lens to f/16 when using program mode?
Yes, probably, although there are no advantages to using TTL flash in program
mode, and the disadvantage is that you probably won't get the DOF of the
actual stop it is set to. Use auto mode because you'll get exactly the lens
setting you want.
>2). How can determine the distance that the flash can be used?
I use the flash's manual guide slide rule as the resource for this.
>3). Sunpak states that the shutter speed should be a 30th of a second,
> with all other flashes I have used I have always used a 60th,
> Is a 30th common?
There is a very obscure statement like this in one of the Olympus manuals too.
1/60 is the fastest sync you can use with TTL, but slower speeds are
possible. I think the 1/30 setting may be "recommended" in order to blend
some ambient light in under most circumstances. But I find it a somewhat
bizarre recommendation.
>4). What are the pro/cons using TTL for Flash?
There is no short answer to this. It beckons with the illusion of convenience
and precision, let's say. But TTL is frequently the opposite. In very many
situations it will cause the flash to overpower your subject (this could have
something to do with that 1/30 sec recommendation, but why don't they say
so?). When in doubt about this, take a bracket in which you use the exposure
comp dial to decrease exposure -2/3 stop.
>5). Does anyone have any suggestions using TTL with a flash or
> know where I might get more information?
There are lots of books on this since the principles are pretty much the same
from one camera brand to the next. You might try securing a copy of Shipman
("How to Buy and Use Olympus Cameras"). I'm pretty sure he covers it and the
books are otherwise pretty good general reference. One or the other of your
OM-2S manuals covers it too I believe.
Since you're used to figuring manual flash, keep doing that even though you
shoot in TTL mode. Use auto mode only. Then you'll have the good sense to
stop down when you get closer to the subject so that the flash will be able to
work correctly and that sort of thing. Good luck and have fun!
Joel W.
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