Panasonic DMWFL500E User Manual [en, de, es, fr]

Operating Instructions

Bedienungsanleitung

Manuel d’utilisation

Instrucciones de funcionamiento

Flash

Model No. DMW-FL500

Before use, please read these instructions completely.

Bitte lesen Sie diese Bedienungsanleitung vor der Inbetriebnahme

des Gerätes vollständig durch.

Avant l’utilisation, veuillez lire entièrement ces instructions.

Antes del uso, lea detenidamente, por favor, estas instrucciones.

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Contents

Information for Your Safety ..................................................................................................................... 3

Precautions......................................................................................................................................... 4

Supplied accessories.............................................................................................................................. 4

Names of the Components..................................................................................................................... 5

Displays Appearing on the Display Panel............................................................................................... 6

Concerning the batteries ........................................................................................................................ 7

Inserting and Removing the Unit’s Batteries (optional)......................................................................... 10

Checking the Flash’s Remaining Battery Charge ................................................................................. 11

Mounting the Unit onto the Digital Camera, and Removing it............................................................... 12

Taking Pictures using a Digital Camera with Communication Functions.............................................. 13

How to select the flash mode............................................................................................................ 13

[TTL AUTO] ...................................................................................................................................... 14

[AUTO] ............................................................................................................................................. 15

[MANUAL] ........................................................................................................................................ 16

[FP TTL AUTO] ................................................................................................................................ 17

[FP MANUAL] .................................................................................................................................. 18

Taking Pictures using a Digital Camera without Communication Functions ......................................... 20

How to select the flash mode............................................................................................................ 20

[AUTO] ............................................................................................................................................. 21

[MANUAL] ........................................................................................................................................ 23

Other Applications ................................................................................................................................ 24

Taking pictures with bounce lighting ................................................................................................. 24

Taking pictures at close range .......................................................................................................... 25

Selecting the lighting angle manually................................................................................................ 25

How to use the Wide Panel............................................................................................................... 26

Many choices for different flash photography applications................................................................ 27

Functions.............................................................................................................................................. 28

Concerning Continuous Firing .............................................................................................................. 30

Table of Guide Numbers (GN).............................................................................................................. 31

Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................... 33

Cautions for Use................................................................................................................................... 35

Specifications........................................................................................................................................ 37

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Information for Your Safety

≥ This flash is designed to be used with digital

cameras made by Panasonic.

It is compatible with DMC-L1K (with

communication functions: P13 to 19 ),

DMC-FZ30 etc. (without communication

functions: P20 to 23 ). (as of July 2006) ≥ The explanations in these operating

instructions describe DMC-L1K as an example. ≥ Four Thirds

WARNING TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD AND ANNOYING INTERFERENCE, USE ONLY THE RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES AND DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN, MOISTURE, DRIPPING OR SPLASHING. DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER (OR BACK); THERE ARE NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

is a trademark.

ENGLISH

-If you see this symbol-

Information on Disposal for Users of Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment (private households)

This symbol on the products and/or accompanying documents means that used electrical and electronic products should not be mixed with general household waste. For proper treatment, recovery and recycling,

please take these products to designated collection points, where they will be accepted on a free of charge basis. Alternatively, in some countries you may be able to return your products to your local retailer upon the purchase of an equivalent new product. Disposing of this product correctly will help to save valuable resources and prevent any potential negative effects on human health and the environment which could otherwise arise from inappropriate waste handling. Please contact your local authority for further details of your nearest designated collection point. Penalties may be applicable for incorrect disposal of this waste, in accordance with national legislation.

For business users in the European Union

If you wish to discard electrical and electronic equipment, please contact your dealer or supplier for further information.

Information on Disposal in other Countries outside the European Union

This symbol is only valid in the European Union. If you wish to discard this product, please contact your local authorities or dealer and ask for the correct method of disposal.

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Precautions

∫ Concerning the unit’s handling

Do not subject the unit to strong vibration or

≥

≥ Before carrying the unit around with you,

≥ Sand and dirt may cause the unit to

≥ When taking photos on rainy days or on a

≥ The unit is not waterproof. If rain or drops of

≥ Read the operating instructions for your digital

Doing so may cause not only the unit to

impact.

malfunction but also the flash head to break.

ensure that the wide panel is properly retracted. (P26)

malfunction. When using the unit in an environment such as a beach, take steps to protect it from sand and dirt.

beach, take care to keep the unit dry.

water splash onto the unit, wipe off the water with a dry cloth. If the unit does not operate normally, consult the dealer or your nearest servicentre.

camera.

∫ When the unit is not going to be used for a

prolonged period

≥ Be absolutely sure to remove the batteries from

the unit.

≥ If the batteries are left inside the unit, a faint

current will flow continuously, even when the unit’s power is off, gradually discharging the batteries. (For details on nickel metal hydride batteries, refer to P9.)

≥ Store the batteries in a cool, moisture-free

location where the temperature is kept as constant as possible. (Recommended temperature range: 15 °C to 25 °C; recommended humidity range: 40% to 60%) If you plan to store the unit and/or its batteries

≥

inside a closet or cupboard, it is recommended that you put a desiccant (silica gel) in with them.

Supplied accessories

[Inspection to be performed when you unpack the unit]

When removing the unit from its packing box, check that the main unit and its supplied accessories are present, and also check their external appearance and functions to verify that they have not sustained any damage during distribution and transportation. If you discover any trouble, contact your vendor before using the product.

For this flash, use only the flash case shown below.

Flash case VFC4216

≥ The batteries are optional.

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Names of the

Components

1 Wide panel (P26) 2 Flash head 3 AF assist lamp (P29)

≥ In dark locations where it is difficult to

bring the subject into focus, you can direct light onto the subject to facilitate focusing. (The AF assist works only when this flash is used in combination with Panasonic’s “Four Thirds camera: it will not work with other

cameras.) 4 Flash sensor 5 Lock ring (P12) 6 Lock pin (P12) 7 Terminal area (P12)

8 Bounce unlock button (P12, 24 )

9 Bounce up/down angle display (P24)

10 Bounce left/right angle display (P24)

11 [MODE] button (P13, 20 , 28 ) 12 [ZOOM] button (P21, 23 , 25 , 26 ) 13 [AUTO CHECK] lamp (P11, 14 , 21 ) 14 [TEST/CHARGE] button (P11, 13 20 ) 15 [POWER] button (P11, 13 20 28 ) 16 Battery cover (P10) 17 [F] dial (P19, 21 , 28 ) 18 [GN/ISO] dial (P16, 21 , 23 , 28 ) 19 [LIGHT] button (P28)

≥ The display panel will light for about

15 seconds. It can also be lighted by

operating a digital camera with

communication functions.

20 Display panel (P6)

” digital single-lens reflex

18 17

11 12

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Displays Appearing on the Display Panel

1 2 3

98 7

1 Wide panel display (P26) 2 FP firing (P17, 18 ) 3 Flash mode (P13, 20 ) 4 Zoom value (P25) 5 Flash intensity adjustment (P19) 6 Distance display (P29) 7 Aperture 8 Setting displays

(guide number, ISO sensitivity, aperture, flash working range, correct distance, flash intensity adjustment)

9 ISO sensitivity

10 Guide number (GN) (P31)

11 ZOOM mode (P25) 12 Lighting angle display (P29)

≥ [FOUR THIRDS]:

The lighting angle is displayed by the

focal length of the “Four Thirds” digital

camera format lens.

≥ [135]:

The lighting angle is converted into the

focal length of the 135 camera (35 mm

film conversion) and displayed.

13 Close-up flash (P25)

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Concerning the batteries

∫ Types of batteries that can be used

AA Alkaline dry batteries (LR6) AA Rechargeable nickel metal hydride batteries

(Ni-MH)

≥ The use of batteries made by Panasonic is

recommended.

≥ The performance of the batteries used may

significantly differ depending on which battery brand is used, how long the batteries have been stored since they were manufactured and how they have been stored.

≥ The performance of the batteries decreases

temporarily at low temperatures (below 10 °C), but will be restored when the temperature returns to room temperature.

≥ Malfunctioning may occur under certain

ambient temperatures and operating conditions. However, this is not indicative of trouble.

≥ In order to ensure that the batteries will function

for as long as possible, it is recommended that you turn off the unit’s power during the intervals between taking photos. If the unit is to be used for prolonged periods, the use of rechargeable nickel metal hydride batteries is recommended.

≥ Once spent, batteries may recover their

performance when left standing for a while, but they will quickly become unusable again. For this reason, always make a point of replacing spent batteries with fresh ones.

∫ Types of batteries with which operation is

not guaranteed

AA Ni-Cd batteries AA Nickel-manganese batteries (ZR6) AA Lithium batteries (FR6) AA Manganese batteries (R6) AA Oxyride (oxy-nickel-hydroxide) dry batteries

(LR6) CR-V3 Lithium battery packs

≥ Panasonic offers no guarantees that the unit

will operate properly when any of the batteries listed above are used. Furthermore, use of these batteries may result in electrolyte leakage, power-on failures and other trouble.

∫ Batteries with shapes that cannot be used

≥ Installing batteries with non-regular shapes in

the unit may cause electrolyte leakage, heat generation and even rupturing of the batteries themselves.

≥ Some batteries sold on the market have part or

all of their jackets missing: Under no circumstances should such batteries be used. (Refer to the figure below.)

≥ Batteries (bare batteries) with no external

jackets or batteries with parts of their jackets missing

≥ Batteries whose - electrode is flat

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∫ Handling the batteries

Mishandling of batteries may cause electrolyte leakage, heat generation and even rupturing of the batteries themselves. Heed with the following cautions.

≥ Do not expose batteries to water or seawater

or allow their terminal areas to become wet.

≥ Do not remove their external jackets or

damage them in any way.

≥ Do not drop the batteries, knock them into

other objects or subject them to any other kind of strong impact.

≥ Stop using the batteries as soon as you

notice any electrolyte leakage, deformation, discolouration or any other such trouble.

≥ Do not store batteries in locations where the

temperature and/or humidity levels are high.

≥ Keep batteries out of the reach of infants and

small children.

≥ When replacing the batteries, replace all four

batteries with fresh batteries of the same type.

≥ Remove the batteries from the unit when you

do not intend to use the unit for a prolonged period.

≥ Batteries may be hot immediately after the

unit has been used. Before removing them from the unit, turn off the unit’s power and wait until the temperature of the batteries has dropped.

≥ At low temperatures (under 10 °C), the

performance of batteries will deteriorate and the number of flashes fired by the unit will be sharply reduced. The operating duration of batteries tends to be shorter particularly when alkaline dry batteries are used so warm them in your pocket before use. When warming batteries in your pocket, avoid direct contact with cigarette lighters and other metal objects as well as with pocket/body warmers.

≥ The number of flashes fired by the unit may

also be sharply reduced if the + and electrodes of the batteries are exposed to oils from the skin or other forms of dirt. Before installing the batteries, wipe the + and electrodes carefully using a soft, dry cloth.

If electrolytes should leak from the batteries, wipe away all traces of the electrolyte in the battery compartment, and then insert fresh batteries or fully charged nickel metal hydride batteries.

If you should get electrolyte on your hands or clothes, rinse it off thoroughly with water. If you should get electrolyte in your eyes, you risk losing your sight. In such a case, do not rub your eyes but immediately wash them with clean water, and then seek medical advice.

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∫ Rechargeable nickel metal hydride

batteries

Nickel metal hydride batteries can be made ready for use by recharging them using a dedicated charger. However, mishandling may cause electrolyte leakage, heat generation, the ignition of flames and even rupturing of the batteries themselves. Heed the following precautions.

≥ It may not be possible to properly recharge

batteries with dirty + and - electrodes. Use a soft, dry cloth to carefully wipe the + and electrodes as well as the terminal areas of the charger.

≥ Either when they are purchased or when they

have not been used for a prolonged period, nickel metal hydride batteries may not have a sufficient charge. This is due to their characteristics and is not indicative of trouble. Their regular performance will be restored after they have been charged a number of times.

≥ It is recommended that the batteries be

recharged only after their existing charge has been used up. If they are repeatedly charged without their existing charge first having been used up, it may be difficult for them to sustain their capacity. (A phenomenon referred to as the memory effect.)

≥ If the memory effect has occurred, use up the

existing charge in the batteries until the unit cannot fire and then recharge them fully a number of times. This will restore their capacity.

≥ When nickel metal hydride batteries are not

being used, their capacity will diminish due to the effects of natural discharging.

≥ Do not continuously charge nickel metal

hydride batteries which already have a charge.

≥ Do not remove their external jackets or

damage them in any way.

≥ Read the instructions accompanying the

charger used when recharging the batteries.

Nickel metal hydride batteries have a specific service life. As they are increasingly used or as time goes by, their capacity will diminish gradually. When the length of time during which the unit can be used has dropped drastically, the batteries may have reached the end of their service life. Obtain fresh batteries.

≥ The length of the service life of batteries differs

depending on their storage method, operating conditions and the environment in which they are used.

∫ When the unit is not going to be used for a

prolonged period

≥ If the batteries are left inside the unit, a faint

current will flow continuously, even when the unit’s power is off, gradually discharging the batteries. If they are left like this, they may overdischarge and may become unusable even when recharged.

≥ When storing the batteries for a prolonged

period, it is recommended that they be charged once a year and that after their remaining charge has been used up, they be removed from the unit and stored again.

∫ Service life of batteries

Number of flashes (number of full flashes in MANUAL mode at intervals of 30 seconds)

Batteries used Number of flashes

Alkaline dry batteries (LR6)

Nickel metal hydride batteries (Ni-MH)

Photo taking conditions

≥ Temperature: 23 °C

Flash interval

Batteries used Flash interval

Alkaline dry batteries (LR6)

Nickel metal hydride batteries (Ni-MH)

≥ The number of flashes and flash interval differ

slightly depending on the storage status of the batteries and the operating conditions.

At least 120 flashes

At least 140 flashes

Approx. 6 s

Approx. 4 s

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Inserting and Removing the Unit’s Batteries (optional)

≥ Check that the unit’s power is off. ≥ Use alkaline dry batteries or rechargeable

nickel metal hydride batteries.

1 Slide the battery cover to open it.

≥ There is tape adhered to the battery cover

the first time that you use the unit. Peel it off.

2 When inserting the batteries,

ensure that the + and - poles of the batteries are aligned correctly.

3 Close the battery cover by sliding

it back firmly as far as it will go.

≥ After using the unit, take out the batteries.

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Checking the Flash’s Remaining Battery Charge

≥ Install the batteries and then turn on the unit

and check the battery remaining power.

1 Push the [POWER] button.

POWERPOWER

≥ Charging now starts.

2 Check that the [TEST/CHARGE]

button lights.

TEST/ CHARGE

≥ If the [TEST/CHARGE] button and [AUTO

CHECK] lamp both flash at the same

time, it means that the batteries are

almost completely worn out and should

be replaced with fresh batteries as soon

as possible.

3 Push the [POWER] button to turn

off the unit’s power.

≥ When the [TEST/CHARGE] button is pushed,

the unit may fire.

≥ Turn off the power in the following situations:

≥ When mounting the unit onto, or disengaging

it from, the digital camera

≥ When you do not want the unit to fire ≥ When you are not going to use the unit

≥ After the batteries have been fully

charged, the [TEST/CHARGE] button lights.

≥ If it takes as long for the [TEST/CHARGE]

button to light as the period indicated in the table below, it means that the batteries are nearly worn out. Replace them with fresh batteries as soon as possible.

Alkaline batteries More than

30 s

Rechargeable nickel metal hydride batteries

More than

10 s

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Mounting the Unit onto the Digital Camera, and Removing it

≥ Check that the power of the digital camera and

unit is off. (Mounting the unit onto, or disengaging it from, the camera while the power is on may cause trouble and is not recommended.)

∫ Mounting the unit

1 Secure the flash head at the

horizontal front position.

3 Slide the unit firmly toward the

back of the hot shoe until a clicking sound is heard.

4 Turn the lock ring in the

[2LOCK] direction until it stops turning.

A: Bounce unlock button

≥ If the flash head is at the lock position,

rotate it while pushing the bounce unlock button.

2 Loosen the lock ring.

≥ If the lock pin is protruding, turn the lock

ring in the opposite direction from [2LOCK] and retract the pin.

≥ Do not apply more force than is

necessary to the lock ring.

≥ Do not touch the terminal areas with your

fingers, metal objects, etc.

≥ Do not mount the unit onto the digital

camera while the lock pin is protruding. Otherwise you may damage the unit.

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∫ Removing the unit

Completely loosen the lock ring, and slide the unit off from the hot shoe.

Taking Pictures using a Digital Camera with Communication Functions

How to select the flash mode

≥ For details on each flash mode, turn to P14 to

18 .

1 Turn on the power of the digital

camera.

2 Push the [POWER] button on the

unit.

POWER

≥ The [TEST/CHARGE] button lights after

the batteries have been fully charged.

3 Push the shutter button of the

digital camera halfway down.

≥ The ISO sensitivity, aperture, shutter

speed and other photo taking information are sent between the digital camera and the unit.

4 Push the [MODE] button, and

select the flash mode.

MODE

≥ The flash mode is shown on the display

panel.

≥ The mode is changed each time the

[MODE] button is pushed.

∫ Concerning the flash modes

Item Details of settings

[TTL AUTO] After measuring the appropriate

[AUTO] The unit senses the light by its

[MANUAL] The unit fires at the guide number

[FP TTL AUTO]

[FP MANUAL]

¢ The guide number (GN) is a value which

indicates the light quantity of a flash unit. The higher the value, the greater the quantity of light emitted by the unit.

≥ It may not be possible to use some of these

modes depending on the photo taking modes which are supported by the digital camera.

≥ It is not possible to select a mode which cannot

be used.

flash intensity by discharging a pre-flash, the unit fires again for photo taking. (P14)

flash sensor in accordance with the aperture of the lens, and it adjusts the flash intensity. (P15) ≥ This mode can be used only for

digital camera models with communication functions which support the [AUTO] mode.

which has been set. (P16)

(GN) This mode enables flash photo

taking even at the high shutter speeds of the digital camera by FP firing (repeatedly firing the flash at high speed). (P17) The unit initiates FP firing at the flash intensity set in the [FP MANUAL] mode. (P18)

A: Flash mode

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[TTL AUTO]

Push the [MODE] button, and select the flash mode. (P13) ≥ The flash working range is shown on the

display panel in line with the settings of the digital camera.

A: Flash working range

1 Check that the distance to the

subject is within the flash working range.

≥ If the subject is outside the range, adjust

the aperture of the lens or change the distance to the subject.

≥ The flash working range changes

depending on the type and settings (ISO sensitivity, aperture and focal length) of the digital camera used.

2 Push the shutter button all the

way down, and take the picture.

3 Check that the [AUTO CHECK]

lamp is flashing.

≥ If the [AUTO CHECK] lamp continues to

flash for about 5 seconds, it means that the unit has fired successfully.

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AUTO CHECK

[AUTO]

Push the [MODE] button, and select the flash mode. (P13) ≥ The flash working range is shown on the

display panel in line with the settings of the digital camera.

3 Check that the [AUTO CHECK]

lamp is flashing.

AUTO CHECK

≥ If the [AUTO CHECK] lamp continues to

flash for about 5 seconds, it means that

the unit has fired successfully.

A: Flash working range ≥ If the settings on the digital camera (ISO

sensitivity and aperture) are outside the combinations of the ISO sensitivity and aperture which can be adjusted, the flash working range is not displayed and the user is warned by the flashing of [ISO] and [F] on the display. In a case like this, change the digital camera settings.

1 Check that the distance to the

subject is within the flash working range.

≥ If the subject is outside the range, adjust

the aperture of the lens or change the distance to the subject.

≥ The flash working range changes

depending on the type and settings (ISO sensitivity, aperture and focal length) of the digital camera used.

2 Push the shutter button all the

way down, and take the picture.

∫ Combinations of the ISO sensitivity and

aperture which can be adjusted in the [AUTO] mode

ISO

sensitivity

3200 F8 to F32 1600 F5.6 to F32

800 F4 to F32 400 F2.8 to F32 200 F2 to F32 100 F1.4 to F22

50 F1.4 to F16 25 F1.4 to F11

Aperture

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[MANUAL]

Push the [MODE] button, and select the flash mode. (P13) ≥ The optimum camera to subject distance and

guide number (GN) matching the digital camera settings are shown on the display panel.

A: Optimum camera to subject distance

1 Turn the [GN/ISO] dial and set the

guide number (GN) so that the camera to subject distance is set to the distance the subject.

≥ If the ISO sensitivity is [100], the optimum

camera to subject distance can be calculated by dividing the guide number (GN) by the aperture. (P31)

GN/ISO

≥ The [F] dial can also be used for this

setting.

≥ If the optimum camera to subject distance

is closer than 0.6 m (or 0.5 m for close-up photos), the lighting range of the flash will shift. In this case, the user is warned by the flashing of the number on the display.

≥ The optimum camera to subject distance

changes depending on the digital camera settings (ISO sensitivity, aperture, focal length and shutter speed).

2 Push the shutter button all the

way down, and take the photo.

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[FP TTL AUTO]

Push the [MODE] button, and select the flash mode. (P13) ≥ This mode enables flash photo taking even at

the high shutter speeds of the digital camera by FP firing (repeatedly firing the flash at high speed).

≥ The flash working range is shown on the

display panel in line with the settings of the digital camera.

A: Flash working range

1 Check that the distance to the

subject is within the flash working range.

≥ If the subject is outside the range, adjust

the aperture of the lens or change the distance to the subject.

≥ The flash working range changes

depending on the type and settings (ISO sensitivity, aperture and focal length) of the digital camera used. The range is narrower than in the [TTL AUTO] mode.

2 Push the shutter button all the

way down, and take the photo.

3 Check that the [AUTO CHECK]

lamp is flashing.

AUTO CHECK

≥ If the [AUTO CHECK] lamp continues to

flash for about 5 seconds, it means that

the unit has fired successfully.

The following kinds of photos can be taken using high shutter speeds.

≥ Photo taking with the shadows softened by

backlight photography

≥ Portrait photos taken outdoors with an open

aperture and with the background defocused

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[FP MANUAL]

Push the [MODE] button, and select the flash mode. (P13) ≥ The optimum camera to subject distance and

guide number (GN) matching the digital camera settings are shown on the display panel.

A: Optimum camera to subject distance

1 Turn the [GN/ISO] dial and set the

guide number (GN) so that the camera to subject distance is set to the distance to the subject.

GN/ISO

≥ The [F] dial can also be used for this

setting.

≥ If the optimum camera to subject distance

is closer than 0.6 m (or 0.5 m for close-up photos), the lighting range of the flash will shift. In this case, the user is warned by the flashing of the number on the display.

≥ The optimum camera to subject distance

changes depending on the digital camera settings (ISO sensitivity, aperture, focal length and shutter speed).

2 Push the shutter button all the

way down, and take the photo.

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∫ Adjusting the flash intensity

The flash intensity can be adjusted in steps. Set the flash intensity adjustment to [ON] before adjusting the flash intensity. (P29)

≥ [ ] appears on the display panel.

1 Turn the [F] dial, and set the flash

intensity adjustment value.

A: Flash intensity adjustment value

≥ The flash intensity adjustment value is

always displayed except when it is [0]. If the flash intensity adjustment value is [0], the flash working range is not displayed.

The flash intensity adjustment range and the actual flash intensity may differ depending on the flash mode.

≥ Flash intensity adjustment range

≥ If [TTL AUTO], [AUTO] or [FP TTL AUTO] is

selected, the flash intensity can be adjusted over a range of d3.0 steps.

0 +0.3 +0.7 +1.0 +3.0

0.3

0.7

1.0-3.0

≥ If [MANUAL] or [FP MANUAL] is selected,

the flash intensity can be adjusted over a range of d0.7 steps.

0 +0.3 +0.7

≥ The actual flash intensity may vary when the

flash intensity adjustment value has been set on both the digital camera and the unit. ≥ If [TTL AUTO], [AUTO] or [FP TTL AUTO] is

selected, the unit fires at the adjustment value obtained by adding together the adjustment values set on the digital camera and the unit. (The value set on the unit only is displayed as the flash intensity adjustment value.)

[Example]

Unit

Adjustment value

setting

Unit’s flash

intensity

adjustment value

display

Actual

adjustment value

used for firing

≥ If [MANUAL] or [FP MANUAL] is selected,

the unit fires at the adjustment value set on the unit only.

[Example]

Adjustment value

setting

Unit’s flash

intensity

adjustment value

display

Actual

adjustment value

used for firing

+0.3

(+2/3 EV)

Unit

+0.3

(+1/3 EV)

Digital

camera

+0.3

(+1/3 EV)

+0.3

+0.6

Digital

camera

+0.3

(+1/3 EV)

+0.3

0.3

0.7

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Taking Pictures using a Digital Camera without Communication Functions

How to select the flash mode

≥ For details on each flash mode, turn to P21 to

23 .

1 Push the [POWER] button on the

unit.

≥ The [TEST/CHARGE] button lights after

the batteries have been fully charged.

2 Push the [MODE] button to select

the flash mode.

MODE

A: Flash mode

≥ The flash mode is shown on the display

panel.

≥ The mode is changed each time the

[MODE] button is pushed.

∫ Concerning the flash modes

Item Details of settings

[AUTO] The unit senses the light by its

[MANUAL] The unit fires at the guide number

¢ The guide number (GN) is a value which

indicates the light quantity of a flash unit. The higher the value, the greater the quantity of light emitted by the unit.

flash sensor in accordance with the aperture of the lens, and it adjusts the flash intensity. (P21)

(GN)

which has been set. (P23)

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[AUTO]

Push the [MODE] button, and select the flash mode. (P20)

1 Turn the [GN/ISO] dial to set the

ISO sensitivity.

GN/ISO

2 Push the [ZOOM] button to set

the zoom value to the focal length of the lens.

ZOOM

4 Push the shutter button all the

way down, and take the photo.

5 Check that the [AUTO CHECK]

lamp is flashing.

≥ If the [AUTO CHECK] lamp continues to

flash for about 5 seconds, it means that

the unit has fired successfully.

AUTO CHECK

3 Turn the [F] dial and set it to the

aperture of the lens.

≥ If the combination of the ISO sensitivity

and aperture are outside the usable range, a warning is given in the form of the flashing ISO sensitivity and aperture displays. In a case like this, change the ISO sensitivity and aperture.

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∫ Flash working range in [AUTO] mode

ISO sensitivity

3200 1600

F8 F5.6 F4 F2.8 F2 F1.4

F11F8F5.6F4F2.8F2F1.4

F16 F11 F8 F5.6 F4 F2.8 F2 F1.4

F22F16F11 F8F5.6F4F2.8F2

F32 F22 F16 F11 F8 F5.6 F4 F2.8

` F32 F22 F16 F11 F8 F5.6 F4

``F32 F22 F16 F11 F8 F5.6

```F32 F22 F16 F11 F8

````F32 F22 F16 F11

800 400 200 100 50 25

Aperture values that can be set

Lighting angle

Focal length (mm)

(35 mm film conversion)

(16)10(20)12(24)14(28)17(35)25(50)35(70)42(85)

1.1

1.2

1.7

1.9

2.2

2.5

2.8

[

12.8

0.8

[

9.0

0.5

[

6.4

0.5

[

4.5

0.5

[

3.2

0.5

[

2.2

0.5

[

1.6

0.5

[

1.1

0.5

[

0.7

[

14.2

0.9

[

10.0

0.6

[

7.1

0.5

[

5.0

0.5

[

3.5

0.5

[

2.5

0.5

[

1.8

0.5

[

1.2

0.5

[

0.8

[

20.0

1.2

[

14.0

0.8

[

10.0

0.6

[

7.0

0.5

[

5.0

0.5

[

3.5

0.5

[

2.5

0.5

[

1.7

0.5

[

1.2

[

21.4

1.3

[

15.0

0.9

[

10.7

0.6

[

7.5

0.5

[

5.3

0.5

[

3.7

0.5

[

2.7

0.5

[

1.8

0.5

[

1.3

[

25.7

1.6

[

18.0

1.1

[

12.8

0.8

[

9.0

0.5

[

6.4

0.5

[

4.5

0.5

[

3.2

0.5

[

2.2

0.5

[

1.5

[

28.5

1.7

[

20.0

1.2

[

14.2

0.8

[

10.0

0.6

[

7.1

0.5

[

5.0

0.5

[

3.6

0.5

[

2.5

0.5

[

1.7

[

32.1

2.0

[

22.5

1.4

[

16.0

1.0

[

11.2

0.7

[

8.0

0.5

[

5.6

0.5

[

4.0

0.5

[

2.8

0.5

[

1.9

3.1

[

35.7

2.2

[

25.0

1.5

[

17.8

1.1

[

12.5

0.7

[

8.9

0.5

[

6.2

0.5

[

4.5

0.5

[

3.1

0.5

[

2.2

Working range when taking pictures in [AUTO]

(m)

≥ The areas framed by the bold lines indicate the flash working range when the wide panel is used.

(P26)

≥ When the flash head is facing toward the front, the number displayed at the near-distance side is

0.6 m or more, and when it is pointed downward, it is 0.5 m or more.

≥ The flash intensity can be adjusted in 1/3 steps by varying the ISO sensitivity and aperture from the

digital camera settings.

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[MANUAL]

Push the [MODE] button, and select the flash mode. (P20) ≥ The guide number (GN) and light quantity ratio

appear on the display panel.

A: Light quantity ratio

≥ The “light quantity ratio” is the ratio of the

flash intensity to the full flash.

1 Push the [ZOOM] button to set

the zoom value to the focal length of the lens.

3 Push the shutter button all the

way down, and take the photo.

∫ How to determine the aperture and guide

number

When the camera to subject distance and aperture have been decided upon

≥ The following formula is used to obtain the

guide number (GN), which is then set in the

unit. “Aperture (F)” k “Camera to subject distance (m)” m “ISO sensitivity coefficient”

When the aperture is to be set

≥ The following formula is used to obtain the

aperture, which is then set in the digital

camera. “Guide number (GN)” k “ISO sensitivity coefficient” m “Camera to subject distance (m)”

How to obtain the optimum camera to subject distance

“Guide number (GN)” k “ISO sensitivity coefficient” m “Aperture (F)”

ZOOM

2 Turn the [GN/ISO] dial, and set

the guide number (GN).

GN/ISO

≥ The [F] dial can also be used for this

setting.

ISO sensitivity coefficient

ISO

sensitivity

3200 5.6 1600 4.0

800 2.8 400 2.0 200 1.4 100 1.0

50 0.71 25 0.5

≥ For a list of guide numbers (GN), turn to P31.

Compensation coefficient

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Other Applications

Taking pictures with bounce lighting

≥ Bounce light photography is a technique which

uses the reflected light from a ceiling or a wall onto which the light emitted from a flash unit has been directed.

≥ If the flash is aimed directly at the front of the

subject when the portrait of a person is to be taken, for instance, strong shadows may form or the person’s skin and other areas may appear whitish and indistinct.

≥ However, if the bounce light technique is used

at times like this, the strong shadows can be minimized and the subject captured naturally.

1 While holding down the bounce

unlock button, turn the flash head so that it is pointing in the desired direction.

90°

2 Point the flash at the ceiling or

other reflective surface, and take the photo.

≥ The flash working range and optimum

camera to subject distance do not appear on the display panel.

≥ When the lighting angle is set to [ZOOM]

(auto), the zoom value appears on the display panel as [--] and 25 mm [135 camera (35 mm film conversion): 50 mm] is set.

≥ The lighting angle can be changed

manually. (P25)

90°

7°

≥ At the locked position, change the

direction while holding down the bounce unlock button.

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180°

≥ When the [TEST/CHARGE] button is pushed,

the [AUTO CHECK] lamp lights, and whether or

not the firing is appropriate can be verified.

(This is possible only when [AUTO] is

established as the flash mode.) ≥ If the surface (such as the ceiling or walls) off

which the light from the flash is to be reflected

is coloured, this may affect the photo images.

Choose a surface which is white or off-white as

the reflecting surface.

Taking pictures at close range Selecting the lighting angle manually

≥ When the camera to subject distance is 0.5 m

to 1.5 m, the light emitted from the flash will be skewed. For this reason, while holding down the bounce unlock button, point the flash head downward (7 degrees), and then take the picture.

≥ The lighting angle can be adjusted manually.

Push the [ZOOM] button, and select the lighting angle.

ZOOM

Point the flash head down as far as it will go (7 degrees downward).

A: Lighting angle

≥ [M ZOOM] appears on the display panel.

Any of the following ZOOM settings can be selected:

12 mm, 14 mm, 17 mm, 25 mm, 35 mm, 42 mm

≥ [ ] appears on the display panel.

≥ Vignetting may be caused by the light from the

flash when the lens has a long overall length or a large diameter. Take a test photo first, and then take the picture.

≥ Use the flash in this way only for close-up

photos. If you keep the flash head pointed down during regular photo taking, the light emitted from the flash at the top of the screen will be insufficient.

[With a 135 camera (35 mm film conversion):

24 mm, 28 mm, 35 mm, 50 mm, 70 mm, 85 mm]

Each time the [ZOOM] button is pushed, the settings are selected in the following sequence:

AUTO ZOOM

42 (85)

≥ [AUTO ZOOM] can be used only when a digital

camera with communication functions is used. ≥ When the wide panel is used,

any of the following settings can be selected:

[AUTO ZOOM], [10 (20)] or [8 (16)].

12 (24)

35 (70)

14 (28)

17 (35)

25 (50)

≥ When a value higher than the focal length of

the lens used is selected, the edges of the

images will darken.

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How to use the Wide Panel

≥ Use the built-in wide panel for flash

photography when the focal length of the lens is wider than 12 mm.

≥ Set wide panel switching to [ON]. (P29)

1 Pull out the wide panel and then

push it down.

≥ [ ] appears on the display panel.

2 Push the [ZOOM] button, and

select the lighting angle.

ZOOM

≥ The angle cannot be displayed for a digital

camera which does not have communication

functions.

When using the wide panel, the guide number

≥

(GN) is reduced. This means that the working

range is reduced when taking photos in the [TTL

AUTO], [AUTO] or [FP TTL AUTO] mode and that

the optimum camera to subject distance is

reduced when taking photos in the [MANUAL] or

[FP MANUAL] range.

≥ After taking the photos, retract the wide panel. ≥ Do not push the wide panel upward. Otherwise

it may be damaged.

A: Lighting angle ≥ 8 mm or 10 mm

[16 mm or 20 mm for a 135 camera (35 mm film conversion)] can be selected.

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Many choices for different flash photography applications

≥ Many different flash photography applications

can be chosen by the digital camera settings.

≥ It may not be possible to use some functions

depending on the functions and shape of the digital camera used.

≥ For further details, refer to the operating

instructions of your digital camera.

≥ Select [TTL AUTO] or [FP TTL AUTO] as the

flash mode.

Red-eye reduction flash

≥ The light emitted by the flash reduces red eye

where the eyes of the subjects appear red.

Slow synchronization

2nd curtain synchronization

≥ When taking slow-shutter shots of moving

subjects, the flash is activated just before the

shutter closes.

Light sources emanating from behind the

subject are captured to achieve a dynamic

feeling.

≥ Light from the unit can be emitted using the

slow shutter. This enables shots of people to be taken clearly against the backdrop of night scenes.

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Functions

≥ You can set each function in advance.

1 Push the [POWER] button. 2 Press the [MODE] button for 2 or

more seconds to switch to the function settings.

MODE

3 Turn the [GN/ISO] dial to select

the menu item.

∫ Returning the function settings to the

default status (status at the time of purchase)

When the [MODE] button and [LIGHT] button are pushed together for two or more seconds, all the settings except for the distance display (m/ft) are returned to their defaults.

MODE

LIGHT

≥ The setting for the distance display (m/ft)

remains unchanged.

GN/ISO

4 Turn the [F] dial to select the

setting.

5 Push the [MODE] button to exit

the settings.

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Press the [MODE] button for 2 or more seconds to switch to the function settings. (P28)

Item Setting

AF assist lamp

≥ AF assist will not work with digital cameras which are not part of Panasonic’s “Four Thirds” system.

Lighting angle

≥ 135 camera: This is a synonym for a 35 mm film camera format.

A: The AF assist lamp lights, and focusing is facilitated. OFF: The AF assist lamp does not light.

4-3: The lighting angle is indicated by the focal length of the lens

for the format used with the “Four Thirds” digital camera.

135: The lighting angle is converted into the focal length of a

35 mm film camera.

Distance display

Flash intensity adjustment

Wide panel switching

ft: Distances are indicated in feet. m: Distances are indicated in meters.

ON: The flash intensity is adjusted. OFF: The flash intensity is not adjusted.

ON: The wide panel takes effect. The unit recognizes that the

wide panel is extended.

OFF: The wide panel has no effect.

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Concerning Continuous Firing

When the flash is fired continuously, its flash head becomes hot, and this may possibly lead to deterioration or malfunction of the unit. Keep continuous firing within the number of times given below, and then allow the unit to rest for at least 10 minutes.

Restriction on number of flashes during continuous firing

Flash

intensity

1/1

(FULL)

1/2 0.5 s 20 1/4 0.3 s 40

1/8 to 1/128 0.2 s or less 80

Flash interval

1 s 10

Restriction

on number of

flashes

Continuous firing is synchronized up to the number of frames listed below. If the restriction on the number of flashes during continuous firing is exceeded, allow the unit to rest for at least 10 minutes.

Number of frames for which continuous firing is possible (serial photography speed: 8 frames per second)

Light quantity No. of frames

1/4 2

1/8 5 1/16 10 1/32 16 1/64 30

1/128 40

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