The Canon Speedlight 430EX Flash is a "digital compatible" flash unit that allows you to attach it to other Canon digital cameras that have a "hot shoe" built in. The Canon Speedlight 430EX Flash replaces the Canon Speedlight 420EX Flash and has some additional features such as an increased range as well as a faster recycle time.
Here are some instructions for utilizing the Canon Speedlight 430EX Flash.
Getting Started
The Canon Speedlight 430EX Flash requires batteries. Install batteries by opening the battery panel on the right side of the flash and placing four size-AA batteries inside. Close the battery panel and slide it upward until it clicks into place.
Attaching the Flash to a Camera
Loosen the locking ring of the Canon Speedlight 430EX Flash--located at the bottom of the flash--by turning the wheel clockwise. With the camera in your left hand and the flash in your right, slide the Speedlight's mounting brace into the camera's "hot shoe." Lock the flash in place by turning the locking ring counterclockwise.
Then turn on the flash by setting the power switch to "On." The power switch is on the back of the flash. Check to be sure the flash is ready by checking that the pilot light (also located on the back of the flash) is red.
Setting the Flash
To start taking pictures, simply set the flash to automatic by pressing the "Mode" button until "ETTL" is displayed on the flash's LCD. When you have the target of your next photo in sight, press the shutter button on the camera down halfway; the camera will focus and display the lightning bolt symbol in the viewfinder display.
When you are ready to take the picture, press the shutter button down fully. A pre-flash will fire followed by the main flash to capture the image.
To set the flash to manual flash, simply press the "Mode" button on the back of the Canon Speedlight 430EX Flash until "M" is displayed. To set the flash output, press the center button between the two arrow options on the back of the Cannon Speedlight 430EX Flash and then"-" or "+" to set the flash power output. Select a flash output from 1/64 power to 1/1 full power. Test the flash range by pressing the shutter button down halfway. The range of your manually set flash will be shown on the LCD of the flash based on the current lighting conditions.
Be aware that if you set the flash mode to manual on the Canon Speedlight 430EX Flash, you must set the camera's shooting mode to "M" or "AV." Consult your camera's documentation for instructions on do this.
Tags: Canon Speedlight, Speedlight 430EX, 430EX Flash, Canon Speedlight 430EX, Speedlight 430EX Flash