Without TTL, how to use a flash to light up an entire room with correct exposure?

How was the recycle time?

I presume flash would have fired at full power.

So, you may get good news...let's wait and see.

Please post up the results. I'm very interested in the photos turn out.

OK, well that's re-assuring, and yes I will post the results when I get them.

As for recycle time - I put brand new batteries in it this morning and it took 4 or 5 seconds to recycle, so I think it was maxing out. I don't recall a beeping sound but that's not to say it didn't make one.

ted_smith said:

However, in my panic, I had the flash set only to f8 - likewise with the lens which was set to f8 @ 1\125th (EV13). According to the dial, the maximum range is about 15 feet and I assume that's head on - I suspect it is more like 10 when bounced (though WillTW above says the flash compensates for that?)?

Click to expand...

Whether using TTL or flash photosensor, the flash will simply send light until the camera or photosensor says 'enough light' has come back from the subject. So if direct flash needed 50% of available power, it might need to send 100% of stored power with bounce, before it detects 'enough light'. But if the flash is maxed out with direct light at a certain distance, there is no way you'd ever get the same intensity of illumination at the same distance when using bounce!

Now, all is not lost. Let us assume that with your subject at 15', using bounce the subject is underexposed by -2EV on that side of the face; that side of the face would be -2EV in brightness, but that is a GOOD thing! If f/8 output was available from the flash even with bounce, you'd have somewhat flat lighting that is too uniform across the entire face...not so good for flattering photos!

OK, the results are in!

Better than I expected, but not as good I was originally hoping for. Enough as a keeps sake for my friend though!





But thanks guys - I wouldn't have got this without you all. It is appreciated.