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13 Flash synchronisation
13.1 Automatic flash sync speed control
Depending on the camera model and camera mode,
the shutter speed is switched to flash sync speed
when flash readiness is reached (see the camera’s
operating instructions).
Shutter speeds cannot be set faster than the flash
sync speed, or they are switched automatically to
the flash sync speed.
Various cameras have a sync speed range, for
example from 1/60 sec to 1/250 sec (see the came-
ra’s operating instructions).
The sync speed set by the camera depends on the
camera mode, the ambient light, and the focal
length of the lens used.
Shutter speeds slower than the flash sync speed
can be set according to the camera mode and the
selected flash synchronisation.
If a camera with a between-the-lens shutter is used,
flash sync speed is not controlled automatically.
As a result, the flash can be used at all shutter
speeds.
13.2 Normal synchronisation
In normal synchronisation the flash unit is triggered
at the beginning of the shutter time (first curtain
synchronisation). Normal synchronisation is the
standard mode on all cameras. It is suitable for
most flash shots. The camera, depending on the
mode being used, is switched to the flash sync
speed.
Speeds between 1/30 sec. and 1/125 sec. are cus-
tomary (see the camera’s operating instructions).
No settings are necessary on the flash unit, nor is
there any display for this mode.
13.3 Slow synchronisation (SLOW)
A slow exposure (SLOW) gives added prominence to
the image background at lower ambient light levels.
This is achieved by adjusting the shutter speed to
the ambient light. Accordingly, shutter speeds that
are slower than the flash sync speed (e.g., shutter
speeds up to 30 sec.) are automatically adjusted by
the camera.
Slow synchronisation is activated automatically on
some camera models in connection with certain
camera programs (e.g., a night shot program, etc.),
or it can be set on the camera (see the camera’s
operating instructions). No settings are necessary
on the flash unit, nor is there any display for this
mode.
Slow synchronisation SLOW is set on the camera
(see camera’s operating instructions)!
Use a tripod when shooting with slow shutter
speeds to avoid blurred images!
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