Zylight

9/5/08

11:51 AM

Page 40

in the field

Joe McManus

May 2008

Gear & Now

CAMERA SUPPORT

Wedding & Feature Filmmaker
Ryan Bodie of Studio 26 Click Clack Jack

on the Set of

LED Lights

SHOOTOUT

-------

Using Apple TV

as a Sales Tool

TUTORIALS

Color Isolation in After Effects Creating Logos with Shaped Text
This article is reprinted with permission from EventDV magazine, May, 2008. Online, a division of Information Today, Inc.
LED Lights Shootout: Sony HVL-LBP Versus Zylight Z90
The Sony HVL-LBP (far left) sits high off the camera on its built-in camera-shoe mount. The Z90 (near left) has no built-in mount, but it can be thread-mounted to a wide variety of connectors.
he latest LED lights are taking the video world by storm, and promises of bright lights with very low battery drain have many of us excited. Ive spent some time on recent shoots with two of the most popular choices, the Sony HVL-LBP and the Zylight Z90. The Sony light retails for around $500 at most popular professional video retailers, and the Zylight costs $875 directly from the manufacturer. This is a big difference, with almost $400 separating the two lights. There are some truly innovative features in the Zylight, and whether those features interest you or not will go a long way toward determining if this light is worth the extra cost.
IN THIS CORNER: THE SONY HVL-LBP The main advantage of the Sony HVL-LBP, from my perspective, is the fact that it uses Sonys L series Infolithium batteries. If you are using a Sony camera such as the FX1 or Z1U, you already have batteries that will work with this unit, as well as the charger required. The lithium batteries used by this unit are lightweight and will power the light for a very long time, up to 3 hours at full brightness. In fact, I have yet to drain a full battery using this light.
The light is designed to be attached to the accessory shoe of your camera, and Ive found it one of the easiest lights to attach and remove, thanks to the larger-than-average release dial at the base of the light. At just over 14 ounces (without battery), it tends to make the camera a little top-heavy, especially with lighter cameras such as the FX1, but there is a definite advantage to not having any cables running from the light to a battery belt. The light performs well up close, especially within a 10" range, but drops off significantly after that. To combat this problem, there is a built-in condenser filter that intensifies the beam, although I found that this did not work well in the widescreen format and produced a look that reminded me more of an extremely bright flashlight. The unit is outdoor-balanced at 5600k, which causes a noticeable blue tint in indoor applications. I experimented with color gels in an attempt to change the color temperature of the light, but I wasnt satisfied with how they significantly cut down the brightness. Since we are usually running two
Heres the Sony HVL-LBP with its attached NP-F970 battery. Note the side-mounted controls including dimmer, power, and battery-level indicator.

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Page 41

in the

Spotlight
Anton/Bauer www.antonbauer.com Sony Electronics www.sonystyle.com Zylight www.zylight.com
light in one area and tungsten in another. With the Zylights adjustable color temperature, I always find a setting I like, without adding gels. Speaking of gels, the Z90 has another cool feature that can enhance your footage. By simply pressing a button, you get full access to The Z90s rear controls: Note the two preset buttons for Daylight and Tungsten on the left-hand side and the hue colored lighting effects. Want to toss a blue light dial at the top, which changes the color of the light in gel mode, and the color temperature of the light in the manual setting mode. onto some dance footage? No need for a colored gel; you just turn the dial until you get the color youre looking for. While I admit that many people may not use this feature, its kind of fun to cameras, it definitely did not match the color temperature of experiment with, and it means you dont have to bring an any of our other lights, and it seriously messed up the color entire gel kit with you. balance any time the Sony light came together with If you have more than one Z90, you can take advantage another light on the same object or person. This caused of Zylink, which allows you to link several lights problems for us on several occasions, and it was also together and control them all wirelessly with one control. noticed by the photographer. I wasnt able to test this feature since I only have one light, but there are videos of Zylink in action on the manIN THE OTHER CORNER: THE ZYLIGHT Z90 ufacturers website (www.zylight.com), and it looks I first became aware of Zylight when the Z90 won an pretty impressive. innovation award by the 4EVER Group at NAB 2007. An optional accessory adapter allows you to add barn The Z90 is a huge improvement over the previously doors or a softbox. I opted for the barn doors when ordering released (and still available) Z50. Not only is it four times brighter than the Z50, but it draws the same amount of power. Youll find the controls on the rear of the light. You can select between daylight and tungsten using the two preset buttons. Our lighting kit also includes an Anton/Bauer ElightZ and a Frezzi mini-sun gun. Since we are always shooting two or more cameras, its important to us that our LED light matches the color temperature of whatever other lights we are using. The amazing thing about the Z90 and the main reason I love this light so much is that you can change the color temperature by simply moving a dial from 2500k all the way up to 9000k. I have found that in the field, you never quite know what other light sources you will This image was shot with the Z90 in color gel mode. The color is easily changed by turning the hue dial, and the intensity is controlled with the dimmer. come into contact withsometimes natural

May 2008 / EventDV

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mine, and since the light is a little strong when viewed from the front, I plan to add the softbox in the future. At 16 ounces, its heavier than the Sony light, but the weight is distributed differently, so it doesnt quite feel or look as awkward sitting on a smaller camera. For battery power, you have a few options. I opted for a lightweight IDX Endura series battery belt, but there is also a D-Tap option for those who want to use Anton/Bauer batteries, and you can also buy a lithium battery directly from the manufacturer. What I really like about the Endura battery system is that you can stack another battery on the back of the one you are using in order to increase your runtime, although I must admit I havent had to do this with this light yet. Im simply amazed how much more battery life I can get out of these LED lights.
The easy-to-read display lets you tune the Z90 to just the right color temperature.
OTHER COMPARISONS Both the Sony and the Zylight have an excellent spread, which is perfect for widescreen applications. Since switching to HDV, I had found that some of my old lights werent performing well, especially in wide shots when shooting in 16:9. That simply isnt a problem with either of these lights, with the exception of the Sony operating with the condenser filter attached, but the solution to that is simple: Dont use the condenser. In order to give a proper comparison, I included images shot with my ElightZ, an Anton/Bauer 10 W halogen light. AND THE WINNER IS The Zylight Z90 and its smaller cousin, the Z50, are becoming very popular in the broadcast industry, even showing up at the Super Bowl, and its easy to see why. But the real question you are probably asking yourself is whether its worth the price of nearly two Sony lights to get the added features of the Z90. From what I have experienced, it certainly is. The Sony would be a lot more attractive if it were calibrated to indoor light, but to me it didnt seem worth the extra postproduction color correction problems that it creates. If youre thinking of moving to LED lighting, the adaptability and sturdy construction of the Z90 make it a clear winner.
Heres a bowl of fruit in a dark room with no other light sources besides the on-camera lights tested. The white balance is set to automatic. Note the bluish tint from the Sony light. The Zylight was manually set to 3800k and more closely resembles the result from the Anton/Bauer halogen light.
Joe McManus (joe@fvpro.com) is co-founder of Future Vision Productions, an award-winning

wedding and event videography outfit based in London, Ontario. He is the founder and president of the Ontario Professional Videographers Association (OPVA), and he was named to the 2005 EVENTDV 25. Comments? Email us at eventdv@infotoday.com, or check the masthead for other ways to contact us.

Zylight LLC

L ED Li gh ti ng I ns tru me nts

LED Lighting by Zylight

Switchable Daylight or Tungsten Variable Color Temp. 2500K-9000K Full Color Output Color Correction Full Wireless Control Multiple Powering
PO Box 54 Chelmsford, MA 01824 978.244.0011 ph 978.244.0023 fax

Options No Gels No Bulbs

www.zylight.com

Compact & Durable

4-105-930-11(1)
HVL-F58AM Operating Instructions

2008 Sony Corporation

English
Before operating the product, please read this manual thoroughly and retain it for future reference.

WARNING

To reduce fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Tape over lithium battery contacts to avoid short-circuit when disposing of batteries, and follow local regulations for battery disposal. Keep batteries or things that could be swallowed away from young children. Contact a doctor immediately if an object is swallowed. Immediately remove the batteries and discontinue use if. the product is dropped or subjected to an impact in which the interior is exposed. the product emits a strange smell, heat, or smoke. Do not disassemble. Electric shock may occur if a high voltage circuit inside the product is touched.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
When using your photographic equipment, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following: Read and understand all instructions before using. Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children. Do not leave appliance unattended while in use. Care must be taken as burns can occur from touching hot parts.
Do not operate appliance with a damaged cord or if the appliance has been dropped or damaged- until it has been examined by a qualified serviceman. Let appliance cool completely before putting away. Loop cord loosely around appliance when storing. To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not immerse this appliance in water or other liquids. To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not disassemble this appliance, but take it to a qualified serviceman when service or repair work is required. Incorrect reassembly can cause electric shock when the appliance is used subsequently. The use of an accessory attachment not recommended by the manufacturer may cause a risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons. Batteries may become hot or explode due to improper use. Use only the batteries specified in this instruction manual. Do not install the batteries with the polarity (+/-) reversed. Do not subject batteries to fire or high temperatures. Do not attempt to recharge (except for rechargeable batteries), short or disassemble. Do not mix, batteries of different types, brands or ages.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

CAUTION
Do not touch the flashtube during operation, it may become hot when the flash fires.

For customers in Europe

Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic Equipment (Applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems) This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product shall not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources. For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local Civic Office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.
Notice for the customers in the countries applying EU Directives
The manufacturer of this product is Sony Corporation, 1-7-1 Konan Minato-ku Tokyo, 108-0075 Japan. The Authorized Representative for EMC and product safety is Sony Deutschland GmbH, Hedelfinger Strasse 61, 70327 Stuttgart, Germany. For any service or guarantee matters please refer to the addresses given in separate service or guarantee documents.
For the customers in the U.S.A. CAUTION
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to operate this equipment.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Table of Contents

Features.... 9 Name of parts... 10

Preparations

Inserting batteries.... 15 Attachment and removal of the flash unit.. 18 Turning on the power... 20 Changing the flash mode... 22 LCD panel illuminator... 24

Basics

Program auto flash (The basics).. 25 Using flash in each recording mode of the camera. 29

Applications

Test-flash.... 31 Zoom flash coverage.... 32 Bounce flash... 36 Close-up photography (downward bounce).. 41 Manual flash (M)... 43 High-speed sync (HSS)... 47 Multiple flash (MULTI).. 48 Wireless flash mode (WL)... 54 Connecting camera and flash by cable.. 69 Using external battery adaptor... 71 AF illuminator.... 72 Reset to the default settings.. 73 Custom setting.... 74

Additional Information

Notes on use... 81 Maintenance... 83 Specifications... 84

Before use

For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your camera. This flash unit is not dust-proof, splash-proof or waterproof. Do not place this flash unit in the following locations Regardless of whether this flash unit is in use or in storage, do not place it in any of the following locations. Doing so may lead to a malfunction. Placing this flash unit in locations subject to direct sunlight such as on dashboards or near a heater may cause this unit to deform or malfunction. Locations with excessive vibration Locations with strong electromagnetism Locations with excessive sand In locations such as the seashore and other sandy areas or where dust clouds occur, protect the unit from sand and dust. This may lead to a malfunction.

Features

The HVL-F58AM is a functional, clip-on flash that provides a large flash output with a guide number of 58 (105 mm position, ISO 100 m). Can be used with compatible lenses to enable ADI (Advanced Distance Integration) flash metering, which is not affected by the reflection rate of the background or subject. Enables wireless High-speed Sync. Quick shift bounce function enables you to set the upper or side position easily during bounce flash photography. , page 84

page 43

page 47 page 36
Built-in bounce sheet enables you to create a highlight in the subjects eyes. Equipped with a wide, easy-to-see LCD panel. This flash unit supports flash coverage to a focal length of 16 mm by using a built-in wide panel when the flash is triggered. Corrects the white balance automatically using the color temperature information.* Adjusts the optimum flash coverage according to the image sensor size of the camera.*

page 36

page 13 page 34

page 28

page 32
* When Sony digital single-lens reflex camera (other than the DSLR-A100) is used.

Name of parts

A Built-in wide panel (page 34) B Flashtube C Wireless control signal receiver (page 54) D AF illuminator (page 72)
Remove the protective sheet from the front of the AF illuminator before use.
E Mounting foot (page 18) F Terminal cap (page 69, 71) G Bounce sheet (page 36)
H Bounce indicator (upper angle) (page 36) I LCD panel (page 13) J Control panel (page 12)
K Bounce indicator (side angle) (page 36) L Mounting-foot release button (page 19) M Battery-chamber door (page 15) N Mini-stand (page 57) * Tripod mount

Control panel

A TTL/M (MANUAL/MULTI) button (page 44, 48, 61, 66, 73) B MODE button (page 22) C TEST button (page 31) The status while the lamp is lit Amber: Flash ready Green: Proper exposure D Fn (function)/direction buttons (page 44, 48, 61, 64, 66, 74)
E POWER switch (page 20) F LCD illuminator button (page 24) G ZOOM button (page 32)

LCD panel

A Zoom indicator (page 32) B Flash mode indicator (page 22, 61, 64, 66) C Flash-OFF indicator (page 22) D Power-level indicator (page 43, 48) E Zoom/Multiple-flash repetition display (page 32, 48) F mm indicator (page 32) G TIMES indicator (page 48)

When the flash is rotated upwards, the flash range is not displayed on the LCD panel. High-speed sync (page 47) is also cleared. When the flash is rotated upwards, the bounce indicator does not appear. Use a white ceiling or wall to reflect the flash. A colored surface may color the light. High ceilings or glass are not recommended.

Adjusting bounce angle

Simultaneously using direct light and bounced light from the flash unit produces uneven lighting. Determine the bounce angle with respect to the distance to the reflective surface, the distance from the camera to the subject, the focal length of the lens, etc.

Correct

Incorrect
When the flash is bounced upwards
Determine the angle in relation to the following table.
Focal length of lens Bounce angle
70 mm minimum 28 - 70 mm 28 mm maximum

75, 90

Using the bounce sheet
The bounce sheet creates a highlight in the subject's eyes and makes the subject look more vibrant. The bounce sheet is pulled out when the wide panel is pulled out. Push back the wide panel. When using the bounce sheet, set the bounce angle to 90 upwards.

Quick shift bounce

When shooting in the portrait position, you can set the same bounce flash as that used when shooting in the landscape position, and also use the control panel at proper direction.

90 sideways bounce

When the bounce angle is set to 90 sideways and 0 upwards while shooting in the portrait position, the top and bottom of the photo may darken. In this case, use the built-in wide panel or set the bounce angle to 0 sideways.
blinks on the LCD panel. When the zoom flash coverage is set to [A ZOOM] while using 90 sideways bounce, the coverage is adjusted automatically to the wide angle. In this case, the flash range is shorter than that for 0 sideways bounce.
Close-up photography (downward bounce)
Tilt the flash slightly downwards when photographing objects between 0.7 m and 1.5 m from the camera to ensure accurate illumination.
Rotate the flash downwards with holding the camera firmly.
The rotation angle is 10.
When photographing at a distance closer than 0.7 m, the flash will not be able to completely cover the subject and the bottom of the picture will be darker. Use an off-camera flash, Macro Twin Flash, or Ring Light. The downward bounce can be used only when the bounce angle is set to 0 or 90 sideways. The lenses with long length may obstruct the flash light.

Manual flash (M)

Normal TTL flash metering automatically adjusts the flash intensity to provide the proper exposure for the subject. Manual flash provides a fixed flash intensity irrespective of the brightness of the subject and the camera setting. Manual flash can only be used when the camera is in the M mode. In other modes, TTL measuring is selected automatically. As manual flash is not affected by the reflectivity of the subject, it is convenient for use with subjects with extremely high or low reflectivity.

TTL flash metering

Manual flash metering
Select the M mode on the camera.
Press the TTL/M button to display panel.
The modes change in the following order. , ,

on the LCD

Press the g or G button to select the power level to be set.
The power level is changed in following order. 1/1 t 1/2 t 1/4 t 1/8 t 1/16 t 1/32
When the shutter button is pressed halfway down, the distance at which the proper exposure is obtained appears on the LCD panel.
Proper exposure is obtained at less than 1.5 m.
Proper exposure is obtained at more than 28 m. In manual flash photography, if the power level is set at 1/1 then the flash will go off at full power. The power level range (e.g. 1/1 t 1/2) corresponds to the aperture range (e.g. F4 t 5.6). The flash range check indication of the TEST button (blinks in green) does not work after a photo is taken with the manual flash. Using custom functions, manual flash may be selected without changing the camera to the M mode (page 74).

TTL flash

Manual flash provides a fixed flash intensity irrespective of the brightness of the subject and the camera setting. TTL* flash measures the light from the subject that is reflected through the lens. TTL metering also has a P-TTL metering function, which adds a pre-flash to TTL metering, and an ADI metering function, which adds distance data to the P-TTL metering. This flash unit defines all P-TTL and ADI metering as TTL flash and is displayed on the LCD panel.

*TTL = through the lens

ADI metering is possible in combination with a lens with a built-in distance encoder. Before using the ADI metering function, check whether your lens has a built-in distance encoder by referring to the specifications in the operating instructions supplied with your lens.

High-speed sync (HSS)

High-speed sync
High-speed sync eliminates the restrictions of flash sync speed and enables the flash to be used through the entire shutter speed range of the camera. The increased selectable aperture range allows flash photography with a wide aperture, leaving the background out of focus and accentuating the front subject. Even when photographing at a wide f-stop in the A mode or M mode of the camera, when the background is very bright and the shot will normally be over-exposed, you can adjust the exposure by using the high-speed shutter. For details on setting the HSS features, see Custom setting (page 74).

Notes on wireless flash

You cannot use a flash meter or color meter in wireless flash mode because the pre-flash goes off. Test flash for the wireless flash is in the currently selected test flash mode. One flash occurs with [TEST1] and three flashes with [TEST3]. Flashes continue for four seconds with [TESTM]. For details of test flash, See Custom setting (page 74). The zoom position for the HVL-F58AM is automatically set to 24 mm. A zoom position other than 24 mm is not recommended. In wireless flash mode, ADI metering is canceled and P-TTL flash metering is used automatically (page 43). Multiple flash cannot be used. If another wireless flash is being used nearby, you can change the channel in the custom settings to prevent interference (page 74). When photographing with the wireless flash, the flash unit may in rare cases go off by mistake due to ambient static electricity or electromagnetic noise. When the flash is not in use, select [ ] using the MODE button.
Opening and closing the mini-stand
The mini-stand is collapsible and must be open when used.
Attaching and removing the ministand
Use the supplied mini-stand when the flash unit is separate from the camera.

Attachment

Removal
You can attach the flash unit to a tripod using the tripod socket holes in the ministand. Use the tripod equipped with the screw under 5.5 mm. Because the tripod equipped with the screw over 5.5 mm cannot hold the mini-stand firmly, ministand may be damaged.
When mini-stand break into each part, fit the part of shaft into the other part.
Possible wireless flash photography for this flash unit
The following methods for wireless flash photography can be used with this flash unit. [1] Wireless flash photography when the camera has a built-in flash By using the cameras built-in flash as a controller, this flash unit can fire as a offcamera flash. [2] Wireless flash photography when the camera does not have a built-in flash (without lighting ratio control) Even if the camera does not have a built-in flash, you can take a photo with wireless flash by using this flash unit as a controller and the another flash unit as off-camera flash. [3] Wireless flash photography with lighting ratio control You can take a photo with wireless flash while controlling the lighting ratio of some groups of flash units by using this flash unit as a controller. (1) When using HVL-F58AM/HVL-F42AM as off-camera flash, you can control the lighting ratio up to 3 groups ([CTRL], [RMT], [RMT2]). You can use this function with a DSLR-A700. (2) When using HVL-F56AM/HVL-F36AM as off-camera flash, you can control the lighting ratio of the 2 groups ([CTRL], [RMT]). You can use this function with a supported camera.

Attach the controller to the camera, and turn on the power of the camera, controller, off-camera flash. Set up the camera with the controller and the offcamera flash.

See page 55 for details.

Make sure that the controller and the flash unit are fully charged.
When the flash unit is fully charged in the wireless flash mode, the AF illuminator on the front blinks, and the TEST button is lit in amber.
The test-flash method differs depending on the camera used. For details, refer to the operating instructions of your camera. If the test-flash does not work, change the position of the camera, flash, and subject, or point the wireless control-signal receiver towards the camera. Moreover, make sure that wireless channel of the off-camera flash is set to the same channel as the controller.
Check again that the controller and the flash unit are fully charged, and press the shutter button to take the photo.
Even if RATIO is set to [OFF], the controller flashes to transmit a signal.
[3] Wireless flash photography with the lighting ratio control
You can take a photo with wireless flash while controlling the lighting ratio of the controller and 2 groups of off-camera flash units (RMT, RMT2).
This flash unit (Controller)

Off-camera flash (RMT)

Off-camera flash (RMT2)
Any combination of HVL-F58AM/HVL-F42AM/HVL-F56AM/HVL-F36AM can be used in a group with [RMT]. For [RMT2], only HVL-F58AM that is set to [CTRL1] can be used in a group. When using HVL-F56AM/HVL-F36AM as off-camera flash, set the controller mode to [CTRL2]. In [CTRL2] mode, you can control the lighting ratio of only 2 groups. For details on setting the controller mode, see [C03] in Custom setting (page 74).
Set the camera, flash (controller), and flash (off-camera flash) to wireless flash. Camera Setting: Set the camera to wireless flash.
2 Press the Fn button. 3 Press the g or G button to make [CTRL] blink. 4 Press the Fn button. 5 Press the g or G button to make RATIO [ON] blink. Applications 6 Press the Fn button. 7 Press the f or F button to select the lighting ratio.

The lighting ratio may be set to the following. 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, --* * The flash unit cannot flash when the lighting ratio is set to [--].
8 Press the g or G button to select the lighting ratio
of the controller and off-camera flash units (RMT, RMT2).
9 Press the Fn button. 10 Press the TTL/M button to display
When is selected, manual setting flash is used with the lighting ratio control.
Set the wireless flash while the flash unit is attached to the camera, and then remove it from the camera. For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the external flash. When the HVL-F58AM is used as the offcamera flash, see page 63.
Attach the controller to the camera, and turn on the power of the camera, controller, and off-camera flash. Set up the camera with the controller and the offcamera flash.
The test-flash method differs depending on the camera used. For details, refer the operating instructions of your camera. If the test-flash does not work, change the position of the camera, flash and subject, or point the wireless control-signal receiver towards the camera. Moreover, make sure that the wireless channel of the off-camera flash is set to the same channel as the controller.
Connecting camera and flash by cable
Using the off-camera cables FA-CC1AM (optional) allows photography with flash units separate from the camera. Up to four flash units can be connected together. Being able to take photographs without having to consider the positioning of the flash unit provides considerable freedom to create a variety of shadow effects on the subject.
Flash units with accessory terminals can be connected directly.
Remove the terminal cap. Plug the cable into the accessory terminal.
In this mode, ADI metering will be canceled and Pre-flash TTL metering will be used automatically (page 43). High-speed sync in the P mode cannot be used when the flash is connected with the off-camera cable FA-CC1AM (optional). All the flash units are at the same power level. During photography with off-camera cable, the wireless controller mode is canceled automatically and you cannot use the flash photography with lighting ratio control.
Using external battery adaptor
You can use an External Battery Adaptor FA-EB1AM (optional) as an external power supply.

Remove the terminal cap. Insert the plug of connection cable into the external power terminal.

Applications 71

AF illuminator
In low-light or when subject contrast is low, when the shutter button is pressed halfway down for Auto Focus, the red lamp on the front of the flash unit will light. This is the AF illuminator used as an aid in Auto Focus.
The AF illuminator operates even when [ ] is displayed on the LCD panel. The camera AF illuminator does not operate while the flash AF illuminator is operating. The AF illuminator does not operate while Continuous AF is used in focusing mode (when continually focusing on a moving subject). The AF illuminator may not operate if the focal length of the lens is greater than 300 mm. The flash unit will not operate when removed from the camera.
Reset to the default settings
Press the MODE and TTL/M buttons together for three seconds.
Most flash functions return to their default settings.
Item Flash on/off Flash coverage (zoom) Flash mode (TTL/M/MULTI) Wireless flash (WL) Lighting ratio Power level in TTL/M (LEVEL) Power level in multiple flash (LEVEL) Frequency in multiple flash (Hz) Repetition in multiple flash (TIMES)
Default settings On ( Auto or ) Auto zoom (105 mm) TTL RMT 1:1:1 1/1 1/10

Page 43, 66 43, 48 48

Custom setting is not reset.

Custom setting

The various flash settings may be changed as necessary. The following eight items may be changed. HSS setting (on/off) Wireless channel setting (channels 1 to 4) Wireless controller mode setting (1/2) Recording mode in which manual flash or multiple-flash may be set (M mode only/all modes) Test-flash setting (once/3 times/4 seconds) Time to power save (30 seconds/3 minutes/30 minutes/none) Time to power save when using wireless flash (60 minutes/none) Flash range units (m/ft)
Performing the custom setting
The custom setting is changed as follows.
Press the Fn button for three seconds while the POWER switch is set to ON.
The first item (HSS setting) is displayed.
Press the g or G button to select the item.
For details on the each setting, refer to Changing the custom setting (page 78).
Press the Fn button to finish the custom setting.
The LCD panel returns to the original display. When a setting other than the default setting is selected in C03, C04, C06 or C07, remains on the LCD panel. The selected settings are maintained even if the flash unit is switched off or the battery is removed.
Select with the f button or F button

C01. HSS setting

Select with the g button or G button
C02. Wireless channel setting

Channel 1

Channel 2

Channel 3

Channel 4
C03. Wireless controller mode setting

Control 1

Control 2
C04. Recording mode in which manual flash or multiple-flash may be set

M mode only

All modes

C05. Test-flash setting

3 times

4 seconds

C06. Time to power save

30 seconds

3 minutes

30 minutes

C07. Time to power save when using wireless flash

60 minutes

C08. Flash range units
Changing the custom setting
This is an explanation of how to change each custom setting is given below.
To set the high-speed sync (C01)
You can set the high-speed sync. Press the f or F button to select [ON]. The display switches between [ON] and [OFF]. This flash unit is set to high-speed sync automatically when the shutter speed is set faster than flash sync speed. Flash sync speed may differ depending on the camera. For further details of flash sync speed, refer to operating instructions supplied with your camera. Taking photos in bright locations is recommended. High-speed sync cannot be used with bounce flash. Using a flash meter or color meter with high-speed sync is not recommended because it interferes with achieving the proper exposure and color. The flash range becomes shorter than that of normal flash photography when the high speed sync is used. Make sure that the subject is in the flash range. You can also use the high speed sync with when using wireless flash photography. If you select [OFF], high-speed sync is cancelled. When high-speed sync is cancelled, the shutter speed cannot be set faster than the sync speed.
To change the channel setting of the wireless flash (C02)
You can change the wireless channel to prevent interference when another flash is used nearby. Press the f or F button to select the desired setting. The display is changed in the following order. [CH-1] y [CH-2] y [CH-3] y [CH-4] y. Attach the flash unit to the camera and press the shutter button partway down after changing the channel.
To select wireless control mode (C03)

You can change the wireless control mode. This flash unit has two controller modes, [CTRL1] and [CTRL2]. The wireless controller indicator on the LCD panel is displayed as follows. [CTRL1] mode: [CTRL+] When using HVL-F58AM/HVL-F42AM as off-camera flash, select this mode. [CTRL2] mode: [CTRL] When using HVL-F56AM/HVL-F36AM as off-camera flash, select this mode. Press the f or F button to select the wireless control mode. The display switches between [CTRL1] and [CTRL2].
To change the recording mode that can use the manual flash mode (M) and multiple flash mode (C04)
You can change the recording mode that can use the manual flash mode (M) and multiple flash mode. Press the f or F button to select the recording mode that can use the manual flash mode and multiple flash mode. The display is changed as following. M: (corresponds M mode of the camera only) PASM: (corresponds all modes of the camera) When [PASM] is selected, manual flash photography and multiple flash photography may be used in all recording modes of your camera. The proper exposure may not be obtained with photography in modes other than the M mode of your camera, therefore we recommend the M mode of your camera.
To change the test-flash mode (C05)
You can change the flashing method when using test-flash. Press the f or F button to select the test-flash setting. The display is changed in the following order. [TEST1] y [TEST3] y [TESTM] y. [TEST1] : flashes once at the set light level. [TEST3] : flashes three times at a specific rate. [TESTM] : flashes for four seconds at a specific rate.
To change the time to power save (C06)
You can change the time to power save. Press the f or F button to select the desired time until power save. The display is changed in the following order. [PS 0.5] y [PS 3] y [PS 30] y [PS --] y [PS 0.5] y. [PS 0.5] : changes to power save mode after 30 seconds. [PS 3] : changes to power save mode after 3 minutes. [PS 30] : changes to power save mode after 30 minutes. [PS --] : disables power save mode.
To change the time to power save when using wireless flash (C07)
You can change the time to power save when using wireless flash. Press the f or F button to select the time until power save when using wireless flash. The display switches between [PS 60] and [PS --]. [PS 60] : changes to power save mode after 60 minutes. [PS --] : disables power save mode.

Remove this unit from the camera. Clean the flash with a dry soft cloth. If the flash has been in contact with sand, wiping will damage the surface, and it should therefore be cleaned gently using a blower. In the event of stubborn stains, use a cloth lightly dampened with a mild detergent solution, and then wipe the unit clean with a dry soft cloth. Never use strong solvents, such as thinner or benzine, as these damage the surface finish.
Additional Information 83

Specifications

Guide number Normal flash (ISO100) Manual flash/35mm-format
Power level 1/1 1/2 1/4 1/8 1/16 1/32 Flash coverage setting (mm) 16* 17 11.9 8.4 5.9 4.2 3.29 20.8 14.7 10.4 7.4 5.31 21.8 15.4 10.9 7.7 5.36 25.1 17.8 12.6 8.9 6.42 29.6 20.9 14.8 10.5 7.48 34.2 24.2 17.1 12.1 8.58 41.0 29.0 20.5 14.5 10.3
* When the wide panel is attached.

APS-C format

Power level 1/1 1/2 1/4 1/8 1/16 1/32 Flash coverage setting (mm) 16* 17 11.9 8.4 5.9 4.2 3.31 21.8 15.4 10.9 7.7 5.36 25.1 17.8 12.6 8.9 6.42 29.6 20.9 14.8 10.5 7.48 34.2 24.2 17.1 12.1 8.52 36.8 26.0 18.4 13.0 9.58 41.0 29.0 20.5 14.5 10.3
HSS flat flash (ISO100) Manual flash/35mm-format
Shutter speed 1/250 1/500 1/1000 1/2000 1/4000 1/8000 1/12000 Flash coverage setting (mm) 16* 6.7 4.7 3.3 2.4 1.7 1.2 0.11.8 8.4 5.9 4.2 3.0 2.1 1.12.9 9.1 6.4 4.6 3.2 2.3 1.14.8 10.5 7.4 5.2 3.7 2.6 1.17.3 12.2 8.6 6.1 4.3 3.1 2.19.5 13.8 9.8 6.9 4.9 3.5 2.22.4 15.9 11.2 7.9 5.6 4.0 2.8
Shutter speed 1/250 1/500 1/1000 1/2000 1/4000 1/8000 1/12000 Flash coverage setting (mm) 16* 6.7 4.7 3.3 2.4 1.7 1.2 0.12.9 9.1 6.4 4.6 3.2 2.3 1.14.8 10.5 7.4 5.2 3.7 2.6 1.17.3 12.2 8.6 6.1 4.3 3.1 2.19.5 13.8 9.8 6.9 4.9 3.5 2.20.9 14.8 10.5 7.4 5.2 3.7 2.22.4 15.9 11.2 7.9 5.6 4.0 2.8

Frequency/Repetition

Alkaline Frequency (sec) Repetition (times) Approx. 0.1 - 5 Approx. 100 or more Nickel hydride (2500 mAh) Approx. 0.1 - 3 Approx. 200 or more
Repetition is the approximate number of times that are possible before a new battery is completely dead.