what is ttl(and its not through the lens)

[Markok765]

On my metz there is 3 autos , a manual and TTL(this is NOT throught the lens metering) what is ttl? it fires the same as manual.
Help please!

 

[braxus]

I suspect you are using Canon equipment. In the past they had TTL, A-TTL, E-TTL and now E-TTL II. All use different methods of adjusting flash output. On my Canon T-90, it used A-TTL if I remember correctly. What that did was a sensor was near the film plane which was used when the flash went off. When it sensed enough light had been measured off the film, it cut the flash off. The other option was to use an old A series flash which had a sensor right in the flash itself which measured light output. If you are using any current Canon camera- they all use E-TTL and E-TTL II. Only EX series flashes work on digital cameras. Film cameras can use any TTL version as I believe the film body is programmed for all of these. The only exception I believe was A-TTL which was used on the T-90.

 

[Lee L]

It is through the lens, and Metz TTL adapter modules are available for a number of manufacturers cameras for light metering through the lens (not an outboard sensor on the flash body). I know Metz makes TTL modules for Canon, Nikon, Minolta, Olympus, Pentax, and Leica, and perhaps others. You need the appropriate adapter for your model of camera.

Here is where you can find the correct module for your camera model:
http://www.metz.de/en/photo_electronics/sca_adapter.143.html

These modules can automatically set the parameters that your camera allows/needs, such as shutter sync speed, aperture, etc.

Lee

 

[Helen B]

Marko,

Two answers for why TTL may not really mean TTL, for two different situations.

The TTL flash setting on a Metz can be controlled by a through-the-lens sensor on the camera, or, in the case of many digital cameras, by a non-TTL sensor on the camera. As far as the flash knows, it is all the same so it is called TTL. It really means 'camera controlled' nowadays. TTL flash metering is harder with digital than with film, so some digital cameras have non-TTL sensors for controlling the flash.

If there are no TTL controls via the hot shoe, the TTL setting will usually fire the same as manual, because the flash doesn't get a 'turn the flash off now' signal from the camera.

Best,
Helen