[photohobo024]

The LCD panel on my flash ONLY displays E in the top left hand corner. I can't
seem to get it to display ETTL, is there something I am not doing properly?

[NT73]

Not knowing what camera or flash, then most probably.

[Zig]

You could PM either Rufus or Irma...both used to have this.

[photohobo024]

Thanks NT73.
It's a Canon 580 EX II same as the title and the camera is a Canon 7D.
Thanks also Zig.
After finding the manual, I think I have figured that one out. Apparently
a custom function had been changed. However, even with the manual I
am having difficulty setting Auto Zoom for Image Size. Simply can't get it
to leave the manual setting.
Hmmmmmm!

[shuttertalk]

If you don't mind losing any custom settings you can just try and reset all settings back to default. I can't remember the specific button combo, but the alternative is just to take the batteries out of the flash for a couple of minutes...

[NT73]

Thanks NT73.
It's a Canon 580 EX II same as the title and the camera is a Canon 7D.

Thanks also Zig.
After finding the manual, I think I have figured that one out. Apparently
a custom function had been changed. However, even with the manual I
am having difficulty setting Auto Zoom for Image Size. Simply can't get it
to leave the manual setting.
Hmmmmmm!

My humble apologies for not reading the title correctly, and then being humorously sarcastic. ( NT73 )

[photohobo024]

NT73 no apology necessary, I really appreciate the response AND the humor.
Thought for a bit there I was being ostracized after having no response from a
few previous posts.

Thanks shuttertalk will experiment with your suggestion.

What flash are most of you guys using? I'm also considering RadioPoppers since
I've heard other units, such as Pocket Wizard, have frequent bouts of interference
especially with the Canon 580EX II.

Any word on that as well?

[NT73]

I don't have a flash, only the onboard camera ones. I seldom use those either, partly due to not needing them or extra weight issues. ( All the add ons, mount up (sic) to something Charles Atlas would have a problem with. ) I would love to have the 70-200 L and extenders but agin it is the weight, and as both Adrian and Matthew says, if they are left at home what is the point. :/ I seem to manage with available light anyway even without a high ISO.

[photohobo024]

NT73...
I am not big on the flash either, however I am about to take a lighting class so
I am setting myself up with a Manfrotto stand and umbrella. That's where the
flash issues come in.
Like you I use natural light 99% of the time. I tripod most of the time as well.

I do want to take some portraits that appear a bit more 3-D with respect to
flash lighting. I was told to buy a 60 inch umbrella if I really wanted to light my
subjects, so I have ordered it along with the Manfrotto light stand and attachments.
One stand and umbrella will be a whopping $183.00 USD. Doesn't make since! :/

[NT73]

NT73...
I am not big on the flash either, however I am about to take a lighting class so
I am setting myself up with a Manfrotto stand and umbrella. That's where the
flash issues come in.
Like you I use natural light 99% of the time. I tripod most of the time as well.

I do want to take some portraits that appear a bit more 3-D with respect to
flash lighting. I was told to buy a 60 inch umbrella if I really wanted to light my
subjects, so I have ordered it along with the Manfrotto light stand and attachments.


One stand and umbrella will be a whopping $183.00 USD. Doesn't make since! :/

I don't know if you could spray an umbrella white and use a microphone stand a'la pop bands. It must work out much cheaper.
If I go down that road I will use ripstop nylon (kite suppliers) and make my own to start with. If it is no good then maybe you just have to pay.