TV. VIDEO. AUDIO. MECABLITZ
MECABLITZ 36 AF-3 C/M/N
Bedienungsanleitung
Mode d’emploi
Handleiding
Operating Instructions
Norme per l’uso
Instrucciones del manejo
82
Contents
Indice
Contenido
1. Safety instructions 90
2. Supported dedicated functions 96
2.1 mecablitz 36 AF-3 C 96
2.2 mecablitz 36 AF-3 M 98
2.3 mecablitz 36 AF-3 N 100
3. Mounting the mecablitz 102
3.1 Mounting the mecablitz on the camera 102
3.2 Removing the mecablitz from the camera 104
4. Power supply 106
4.1 Suitable batteries 106
4.2 Replacing batteries 108
4.3 Switching the flash unit on and off 110
5. Dedicated functions and flash mode 112
5.1 Flash readiness indication 112
5.2 Automatic flash sync speed control 114
5.3 Correct exposure indication 116
5.4 Displays in the camera viewfinder 118
5.4.1 mecablitz 36 AF-3 C 120
84
Contents
Indice
Contenido
5.4.2 mecablitz 36 AF-3 M 122
5.4.3 mecablitz 36 AF-3 N 124
5.5 Zoom reflector 124
5.6 AF measuring beam 126
5.7 TTL flash mode 130
5.7.1 Automatic TTL fill-in flash in daylight 132
5.7.2 Matrix-controlled fill-in flash (Nikon) 136
5.7.3 Manual TTL flash exposure correction 136
5.8 Establishing the maximum flash range with
the aperture calculator 140
6. Programmed Auto Flash Mode 144
7. Flash techniques 146
7.1 Bounce flash 146
7.2 Flash synchronisation 150
7.2.1 Normal synchronisation 150
7.2.2 REAR - Second-curtain synchronisation 150
7.2.3 Slow synchronisation / SLOW 152
8. Maintenance and care 154
86
Contents
Indice
Contenido
9. Technical data 156
9.1 Guide number table for full light output,
metric system 160
88
Foreword
Premessa
Introducción
Foreword
Welcome to the large family of Metz customers! We congratulate you on purchasing this flash unit and thank you for
your confidence in our products.
It is only natural that you should want to use your flash unit
straight away. However, we recommend that you study these
Operating Instructions beforehand to be able to fully exploit
and utilize all the capabilities offered.
This flash unit is only suitable for the following camera
brands:
• mecablitz 36 AF-3 C only for Canon EOS cameras
• mecablitz 36 AF-3 M only for Minolta Dynax or. Minolta
Maxxum cameras
• mecablitz 36 AF-3 N only for Nikon cameras.
Please refer to section 2 of this manual for the suitable
camera types.
90
Safety instructions
Per la vostra sicurezza
Instrucciones de seguridad
1. Safety instructions
•
The flash unit is exclusively intended and approved for
photographic use!
•
Never fire a flash in the vicinity of flammable gases or
liquids (petrol, solvents, etc.)! DANGER OF EXPLOSION!
•
Never take flash shots of car, bus or train drivers, or of
motorcycle and bicycle riders, whilst they are travelling.
They could be blinded by the light and cause an accident!
•
Never fire a flash in the immediate vicinity of the eyes!
Flash fired directly in front of the eyes of a person or animal can damage the retina and lead to severe visual disorders - even blindness!
•
Only use the approved power sources listed in the
Operating Instructions!
•
Do not expose batteries to excessive heat, sunshine, fire
and the like!
•
Never throw exhausted batteries on to a fire!
92
Safety instructions
Per la vostra sicurezza
Instrucciones de seguridad
•
Exhausted batteries should be immediately removed from
the flash unit. Lye leaking out of spent batteries will damage the unit.
•
Never recharge dry-cell batteries!
•
Do not expose the flash unit or battery charger to dripping
or splashing water (such as rain)!
•
Protect the flash unit from excessive heat and humidity! Do
not store the flash unit in the glove compartment of a car!
•
Never place material that is impervious to light in front of,
or directly on, the reflector screen. The reflector screen
must be perfectly clean when a flash is fired. The high
energy of the flash light will burn the material or damage
the reflector screen if this is not observed.
•
Do not touch the reflector screen after a series of flash
shots. Danger of burns!
94
Safety instructions
Per la vostra sicurezza
Instrucciones de seguridad
•
Never disassemble the flashgun! DANGER: HIGH VOLTAGE! There are no components inside the flashgun that
can be repaired by a layman.
•
When taking a series of flash shots at full light output and
fast recycling times as provided by NiCad battery operation, make sure to observe an interval of at least 10 minutes after 15 flashes, otherwise the flash unit will be overloaded.
•
The mecablitz may only be used in combination with a
camera-integrated flash unit if the latter can completely be
folded out!
•
Quick changes in temperature may cause condensation.
Therefore give the flashgun time to acclimatize!
96
Canon camera type
Camera Canon
Tipo de cámara Canon
EOS 1, 1N, 100, 100QD, 600,
620, 630, 650, 650QD, 1000,
1000N, 1000F, 1000FN, 3000,
REBEL, REBEL S, REBEL SII,EOS
ELAN, EOS RT, EOS 88
EOS 700, 750, 850
EOS 1V, 3, 30, 33, 50, 50E, EOS
300, 500N, EOS ELAN II, ELAN
IIE, ELAN 7E, EOS REBEL 2000,
REBEL G, EOS New Kiss, Kiss III,
EOS IX, IX E, IX 7, IX Lite, IX 50
EOS 5, 10, 10S, 500, 5000, EOS
A2, A2E, Kiss, 888, EOS REBEL X,
REBEL XS
•••
••• •
••• •
x
••• x
••• •
2. Supported dedicated functions
2.1 mecablitz 36 AF-3 C
• = Dedicated function is supported
x = Dedicated function is performed by the camera or must
be set on the camera
Flash ready indication in camera viewfinder
Automatic flash sync speed
TTL flash control
Manual TTL-flash exposure correction
AF measuring beam control
Programmed auto flash mode
98
Minolta camera type
Camera Minolta
Tipo de cámara Minolta
Dynax / Maxxum
5, 7, 800si
700si, 650si, 600si
4, 505si super, 505si, XTsi, HTsi, 500si
super, 500si, 400si, 404si,303si, 7xi,
5xi, 3xi, SPxi, 5000i, 5700i,
Vectis S-1
•• •
◊◊ ◊
•• •
•• •
xx
xx
•• •
•• •
2.2 mecablitz 36 AF-3 M
• = Dedicated function is supported
x = Dedicated function is performed by the camera or must
be set on the camera
◊ = Only in the camera modes A, S and M
Flash ready indication in camera viewfinder
Automatic flash sync speed
TTL flash control
Automatic TTL flash exposure correction
Manual TTL-flash exposure correction
1stor 2ndcurtain synchronisation
AF measuring beam control
Programmed auto flash mode
100
Nikon camera type
Camera Nikon
Tipo de cámara Nikon
F70, N70, Pronea 600i, Pronea 6i
F601, N6006
F601M, N6000
F5, F4s, F4, F100, F90X, N90S,
F90, N90, F801s, F801, N8008s,
N8008
F501, N2020, F401, N4004,
F401s, N4004s, F301, N2000
F60, N60, F50, N50
FA, FE-2, FG, EM
FM-3A
•••• ••••
•••• ••••
•••• ••••
•••• •
xx x
xxx x
xxx
•• • ••
•••• ••
2.3 mecablitz 36 AF-3 N
• = Dedicated function is supported
x = Dedicated function is performed by the camera or must
be set on the camera
Flash ready indication in camera viewfinder
Automatic flash sync speed
TTL flash control
Automatic TTL flash exposure correction
Matrix controlled TTL fill-in flash mode
Manual TTL-flash exposure correction
1stor 2ndcurtain synchronisation
AF measuring beam control
Programmed auto flash mode
102
Mounting the mecablitz
Montaggio del mecablitz
Montaje del mecablitz
3. Mounting the mecablitz
3.1 Mounting the mecablitz on the camera
Turn off the camera and the mecablitz by their main
switch.
mecablitz 36 AF-3 C and 36 AF-3 N
•
Turn the knurled nut against the mecablitz housing until the
stop point is reached.
•
Slide the mecablitz foot completely into the camera’s accessory shoe.
•
Turn the knurled nut against the camera body as far as
possible, thereby clamping the mecablitz.
mecablitz 36 AF-3 M
•
Slide the mecablitz foot completely into the camera’s accessory shoe.
•
Lightly press the unlatching button “PUSH” upward to
clamp the mecablitz in the camera’s accessory shoe.
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104
Mounting the mecablitz
Montaggio del mecablitz
Montaje del mecablitz
3.2 Removing the mecablitz from the camera
Turn off the camera and the mecablitz by their main
switch.
mecablitz 36 AF-3 C and 36 AF-3 N
•
Turn the knurled nut against the mecablitz housing until the
stop point is reached.
•
Withdraw the mecablitz from the camera’s accessory shoe.
mecablitz 36 AF-3 M
•
Press the unlatching button “PUSH” towards the flash unit
and at the same time hold it lightly down until the “PUSH”
button locks in place.
•
Withdraw the mecablitz from the camera’s accessory shoe.
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106
Power Supply
Alimentazione
Alimentación de corriente
4. Power supply
4.1 Suitable batteries
The mecablitz can be operated with any of the following batteries:
• 4 NiCad batteries, type IEC KR 15/51. They permit very
fast recycling and are economical in use because they are
rechargeable.
• 4 nickel metal hydride batteries. They have a significantly
higher capacity than NiCad batteries and are less harmful
to the environment (no cadmium).
• 4 alkaline manganese dry-cell batteries, type IEC LR6.
Maintenance-free power source for moderate power requirements.
Do not use lithium batteries! Their higher cell voltage
may damage the electronic system of the flash unit.
Remove the batteries from the mecablitz if the flash unit is not
going to be used for an extended period of time.
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108
Power Supply
Alimentazione
Alimentación de corriente
4.2 Replacing batteries
The batteries are exhausted if the recycling time (elapsing
from the triggering of a full-power flash to the moment the
flash ready indicator lights up again) exceeds 60 seconds.
• Turn off the mecablitz by its main switch.
• Slide the battery compartment cover in the direction of the
arrow and fold open.
• Insert the batteries lengthwise in conformity with the indicated battery symbols and close the battery compartment
cover.
When loading batteries ensure correct polarity, as indicated by the symbols in the battery compartment.
Mixed up battery poles may destroy the flash unit!
Replace all batteries at a time and make sure that the
batteries are of the same brand and type and have the
same capacity!
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110
Power Supply
Alimentazione
Alimentación de corriente
Exhausted batteries must not be thrown in the dustbin!
Help protect the environment and dispose of run-down
batteries at the appropriate collecting points.
4.3 Switching the flash unit on and off
The flash unit is switched on by its main switch. In the right
“ON” position, the mecablitz is on. To turn off the flash unit
reset the main switch to its “OFF” position.
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112
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
5. Dedicated functions and flash mode
5.1 Flash readiness indication
The flash readiness symbol lights up on the mecablitz
when the flash capacitor is charged, thereby indicating that
flashes can be fired for the next shot. Flash readiness is
transmitted to the camera and displayed in the viewfinder
(see camera manual).
If a picture is shot before flash readiness is signalled in the
camera’s viewfinder, then the flash unit will not be triggered
so that the exposure may be incorrect.
If flash readiness is established, a full-power test flash
can be triggered with the manual firing button on the
mecablitz.
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114
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
5.2 Automatic flash sync speed control
Depending on the camera model and the selected mode, the
camera’s shutter speed automatically changes to flash sync
speed when flash readiness is reached (see operating
instructions for the given camera).
Shutter speeds faster than the flash sync speed cannot be set
or will automatically be changed to flash sync speed. Various
cameras feature a sync speed range, e.g. 1/30th sec. to
1/125th sec. (see the camera’s operating instructions). The
actual sync speed used by the camera depends on the
camera mode, the prevailing ambient light and the focal
length of the lens.
Shutter speeds that are slower than the flash sync speed can
be used, depending on the operating mode selected on the
camera.
116
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
Only mecablitz 36 AF-3 M:
When the flash unit is switched on with bright ambient light,
ensure that in the Program P and Programmed Image
Control Modes the shutter speed is not faster than the flash
sync speed. In the event that the camera selects a faster
speed, this can be limited to the flash sync speed by pressing
the key for exposure control on the camera. An alternative
way to overcome the problem is to set the “A”, “S” or “M”
mode on the camera.
5.3 Correct exposure indication
The “o.k.” correct exposure confirmation briefly lights up on
the mecablitz when the shot was correctly exposed in TTL
flash mode.
If “o.k.” is not indicated after an exposure, then this means
that the shot was underexposed. The shot will then have to
be repeated with the next smaller f-number (e.g. f/8 instead
of f/11) or the distance to the subject or the reflecting surface (e.g. when bouncing the flash) must be shortened.
118
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
Please refer to the maximum flash range indicated on the
aperture calculator of the mecablitz.
Only mecablitz 36 AF-3 M:
Following correct exposure the mecablitz transmits a signal
to the camera with the result that correct exposure is additionally indicated in the viewfinder of some cameras (see operating instructions for the given camera).
5.4 Displays in the camera viewfinder
The actual display in the camera viewfinder can deviate
from the subsequent description or some symbols are
only possible with certain camera models (see operating instructions for the given camera).
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120
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
5.4.1 mecablitz 36 AF-3 C
• Flash symbol flashes:
User is requested to use or switch on the flash unit.
• Flash symbol lights up: mecablitz is ready for operation.
Some cameras have a warning function in the viewfinder to
indicate incorrect exposure. For instance, if the f-number or
shutter speed or both of them flash in the viewfinder, then this
will indicate either under- or overexposure.
Basic infor
mation concer
ning incorrect exposure:
• In the event of overexposure: Do not use the flash!
• In the event of underexposure: Switch on the flash unit or
mount the camera on a tripod and set a slower shutter
speed.
The reasons for incorrect exposure can vary in the different
exposure and automatic programmes.
122
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
5.4.2 mecablitz 36 AF-3 M
• Flash symbol lights up (Flash readiness indication):
Display is permanently illuminated or flashes slowly to indicate that the mecablitz is ready for firing. A flash will be
fired when the camera’s shutter is released.
• Flash symbol flashes (Correct exposure indication):
Display flashes rapidly after shooting to confirm correct
exposure.
• Display flashes:
Flash is required for the existing exposure situation.
124
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
5.4.3 mecablitz 36 AF-3 N
• Green flash symbol illuminated:
User is requested to use or switch on the flash unit.
• Red flash symbol illuminated:
Flash unit is ready for firing.
• Red flash symbol remains illuminated after shooting or
is briefly switched off:
The shot was correctly exposed.
5.5 Zoom reflector
The zoom reflector of the mecablitz has four zoom positions
for optimal light coverage and adaptation of the guide number to the focal length of the lens.
28 mm Wide-angle illumination for focal lengths as of 28 mm
35 mm Wide-angle illumination for focal lengths as of 35 mm
50 mm Normal illumination for focal lengths as of 50 mm
85 mm Telelens illumination for focal lengths as of 85 mm
126
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
The zoom reflector can be swivelled upwards into four locking positions (e.g. for bounce flashes):
30°, 45°, 60° and 90°.
For normal flash operation the reflector is in the horizontal
position: 0°.
5.6 AF measuring beam
The AF measuring beam is activated by the camera electronics when the ambient lighting conditions are insufficient for
automatic focusing. The AF beam emitter then projects a
striped pattern on to the subject, and the camera uses this
pattern to focus automatically.
To enable activation of the AF measuring beam by the
camera, the camera lens must be set to AF. On the
camera, the AF mode “Single-AF” or “ONE-SHOT-AF”
must be selected. Low-speed zoom lenses may significantly reduce the distance range of the AF measuring
beam.
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128
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
The striped pattern of the AF measuring beam only supports
the camera’s central AF sensor. When using cameras with
several AF metering areas we therefore recommend to activate the camera’s central AF metering zone.
Some cameras may only activate the AF illuminator integrated in the camera. In such an event, the AF measuring
beam emitter of the mecablitz will not be activated.
Please refer to the corresponding information given in
operating instructions for the individual camera.
130
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
5.7 TTL flash mode
The mecablitz 36AF-3 is only suitable for the TTL flash mode.
The TTL flash mode is a very simple way to achieve excellent
flash shots. In this mode exposure readings are taken by a
sensor built into the camera which measures the light reaching the film through the camera lens (TTL). The electronic
control circuit within the camera transmits a stop signal to the
mecablitz as soon as the film has been exposed by the correct amount of light, thereby instantly interrupting the flash.
The advantage of this flash mode is that all factors influencing correct exposure of the film (filters, change of aperture and focal length with zoom lenses, extensions for closeups, etc.) are automatically taken into account. You need not
worry about setting the flash, the camera’s electronic system
automatically determines the correct amount of flash light
required.
If flash exposure was correct, the “o.k.” exposure confirmation lights up.
132
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
The TTL flash mode is supported by all camera modes (e.g.
Full Auto Mode, Program P, Aperture Priority Mode “Av” or
“A”, Shutter Priority Mode “Tv” or “S”, Programmed Image
Control Modes, Manual Mode “M”, etc.).
To test the TTL function a film must be loaded in the
camera. When selecting the film please check whether
limits regarding maximum film speed are applicable
to the given camera when in TTL mode (refer to the
camera’s operating instructions). The mecablitz supports the TTL flash mode for film speeds from ISO 25
to ISO 800.
5.7.1 Automatic TTL fill-in flash in daylight
Most camera models automatically activate the fill-in flash
mode when in Full Auto Mode, Program P, and the
Programmed Image Control Modes in daylight (see the
camera’s operating instructions).
Fill-in flash overcomes troublesome dense shadows and produces a more balanced exposure between subject and back-
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134
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
ground with contre-jour shots. The camera’s computer-controlled metering system sets the most suitable combination of
shutter speed, working aperture and flash output.
Ensure that the contre-jour light source does not shine
directly into the lens as this will mislead the camera’s
TTL metering system!
In this instance there is no setting or display on the mecablitz
for automatic TTL fill-in flash.
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136
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
5.7.2 Matrix-controlled fill-in flash (Nikon)
Only with mecablitz 36 AF-3 N
In this flash mode the subject and the background lighting
are automatically balanced without overexposing the subject.
The camera establishes the exposure setting for the ambient
light by matrix metering.
This operating mode is either set on the camera or automatically activated by the camera (see operating instructions for
the given camera).
5.7.3 Manual TTL flash exposure correction
The TTL auto flash mode of most cameras is matched to a 25 %
degree of light reflection by the subject (average amount of
light reflected by flash-shot subjects). Consequently, a dark
background that absorbs a great deal of light, or a bright
background that reflects a great deal of light, can result in
under- or overexposure, respectively.
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138
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
To offset this effect a correction value can be set on some
cameras to manually match the TTL flash exposure to the
photographic situation. The actual extent of correction
depends on the contrast prevailing between subject and
background. The correction value is set on the camera.
Please refer to the camera’s operating instructions for details
concerning the settings.
A dark subject in front of a bright background:
Positive correction value (approx. 1 to 2 EV). Light
subject in front of a dark background: Negative correction value (approx. -1 to -2 EV).
Exposure correction by changing the lens diaphragm is not
possible because the camera’s automatic exposure system
will automatically regard the changed diaphragm as the normal working aperture.
After the exposure do not forget to reset the TTL flash
exposure correction back to the normal value on the
camera!
☞
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140
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
5.8 Establishing the maximum flash range with the
aperture calculator
The maximum flash range of the mecablitz can be established by way of the aperture calculator in the control panel.
• Set the “ISO” upper slide at the ISO speed of the film loaded in the camera.
• Set the lower slide at the selected zoom position of the
reflector (28 mm, 35 mm, 50 mm or 85 mm).
• Select in the “F” line of the aperture calculator the f-stop set
on the camera/lens.
• The maximum flash range of the mecablitz in meters (m)
and feet (ft) is indicated underneath the f-stop.
A minimum distance to the subject should be maintained to
avoid overexposure. The minimum distance is approximately
10 per cent of the maximum flash range.
Ideally, the subject should be located in the middle third of
the distance between minimum distance and maximum flash
142
Dedicated functions and flash mode
Funzioni dedicate e modi flash
Funciones dedicadas y funcionamiento del flash
range to give the electronic circuit sufficient leeway for light
control.
Example:
Settings: ISO 100, 50 mm, f/4
• The aperture calculator will indicate a maximum flash
range of approx. 7.3 m.
• The minimum distance to the subject is therefore approx.
0.7 m.
• Ideally, the subject should be at a distance of between 2.9 m
and 5.1 m.
144
Programmed Auto Flash Mode
Automatismo di programma flash
Automatismo programado para flash
6. Programmed Auto Flash Mode
In the programmed auto flash mode the camera automatically controls the aperture, the shutter speed, and the mecablitz
for optimal results in most photographic situations, including
fill-in flash.
Settings on the camera
Set your camera to Full Auto Mode, Program P or a
Programmed Image Control Mode (landscape, portraiture,
sport, etc.). Select the auto-focus mode on the camera.
Settings on the flash unit
Adjust the zoom position of the reflector to the focal length of
the lens or set the reflector straightaway to “28 mm”.
Having completed the above settings, you can commence
flash photography as soon as the mecablitz indicates flash
readiness.
146
Flash techniques
Tecniche lampo
Técnicas de destello
7. Flash techniques
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 foreground 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°.
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 subject. Consequently, always
turn the reflector at least to the 60° lock-in position.
148
Flash techniques
Tecniche lampo
Técnicas de destello
The light bounced off the reflecting surfaces produces a soft
and uniform illumination of the subject. The reflecting surface
must be white or have a neutral 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 diminished 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 = –––––––––––––––––––––––––
(flash-to-subject distance x 2)
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150
Flash techniques
Tecniche lampo
Técnicas de destello
7.2 Flash synchronisation
7.2.1 Normal synchronisation
In normal synchronisation the mecablitz is triggered at the
beginning of the exposure time (1st curtain synchronisation).
Normal synchronisation is the standard mode on all
cameras, and is suitable for most flash shots. Depending
upon the given mode, the camera is changed over to flash
sync speed, the customary one being between 1/30th sec.
and 1/125th sec. (see the camera’s operating instructions).
No settings have to be made on the mecablitz, nor is there
any display for this mode.
7.2.2 REAR - Second-curtain synchronisation
Some cameras offer the facility of second-curtain synchronisation (REAR mode) triggering the mecablitz by the end of
the exposure time. Second-curtain synchronisation is particularly advantageous when using slow shutter speeds (slower
than 1/30 sec.) or when shooting moving objects that have
their own source of light. Second-curtain synchronisation
152
Flash techniques
Tecniche lampo
Técnicas de destello
gives a more realistic impression of movement because the
light streaks behind the light source instead of building up in
front of it, as is the case when the flash is synchronised with
the 1st shutter curtain! Depending on its operating mode, the
camera uses shutter speeds slower than its sync speed.
The REAR function is only possible with cameras featuring this facility. The corresponding setting is made
on the camera (see operating instructions of the given
camera).
7.2.3 Slow synchronisation / SLOW
In certain operating modes, some cameras permit slow flash
synchronisation (SLOW) which will provide added prominence to the background at lower ambient light levels. This is
achieved by matching the shutter speed to the ambient light.
Accordingly, shutter speeds slower than the flash sync speed
are automatically adjusted by the camera. Some cameras
automatically activate SLOW synchronisation in connection
with certain programs (e.g. aperture priority “Av” or “A”,
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154
Maintenance and care
Cura e manutenzione
Mantenimiento y cuidados
night shots program, etc.) or permit slow synchronisation to
be set (see camera’s instruction manual).
Use a tripod to avoid camera shake with slow shutter
speeds!
8. Maintenance and care
Remove any grime and dust with a soft, dry or silicon-treated
cloth. Never use detergents that could damage plastic parts.
Forming the flash capacitor
The flash capacitor incorporated in the flash unit undergoes
a physical change when the flash unit is not switched on for
prolonged periods of time. For this reason it is necessary to
switch on the mecablitz for approx. 10 minutes every 3
months. The batteries must supply sufficient power for flash
readiness to be indicated within 1 minute after the mecablitz
was switched on.
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156
Technical Data
Dati tecnici
Características técnicas
Metz does not accept any liability for faulty functions
or damage to the mecablitz caused by the use of
accessories from other manufacturers!
9. Technical data
Zoom reflector positions: 28 mm - 35 mm - 50 mm - 85 mm
T
ilting range and locking positions of flash head:
vertically 30° - 45° - 60° - 90°
Flash duration:
1/500 s - 1/30,000 s
Colour temperature:
approx. 5500 K
Film speed:
ISO 25 to ISO 800
Synchronisation:
Low-voltage ignition
Number of flashes
(at full light output):
approx. 160 with NiCad batteries (600 mAh)
approx. 450 with high-capacity alkaline manganese batteries
☞
158
Technical Data
Dati tecnici
Características técnicas
Recycling time (at full light output):
approx. 5 s with NiCad batteries
approx. 5 s with high-capacity alkaline manganese batteries
Dimensions
(w x h x d): 73 x 110 x 87 mm
W
eight: 205 g without batteries
Included:
mecablitz, Operating Instructions
160
Technical Data
Dati tecnici
Características técnicas
Guide number (ft) =Guide number (m) x 3.3
Numero guida (ft) = numero guida (m) x 3,3
Número guía (ft) = número guía (m) x 3,3
9.1 Guide number table for full light output, metric system
ISO / DIN Zoom position of reflector
28.0 35.0 50.0 85.0
25/15° 10.0 12.0 15.0 18.0
32/16° 11.3 13.6 17.0 20.4
40/17° 12.6 15.2 21.5 22.8
50/18° 14.1 16.9 21.1 25.4
64/19° 16.0 19.2 24.0 28.8
80/20° 17.9 21.5 26.8 32.2
100/21° 20.0 24.0 30.0 36.0
125/22° 22.4 26.8 33.5 40.2
160/23° 25.3 30.4 37.9 45.5
200/24° 28.3 33.9 42.4 50.9
250/25° 31.6 37.9 47.4 56.9
320/26° 35.8 42.9 53.7 64.4
400/27° 40.0 48.0 60.0 72.0
500/28° 44.7 53.7 67.1 80.5
650/29° 50.6 60.7 75.9 91.1
800/30° 56.6 67.9 84.8 101.8
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