Sony Camera Flash 4 105 930 121 User Manual

4-105-930-12(1)  
Flash  
HVL-F58AM  
Operating Instructions  
© 2008 Sony Corporation  
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Do not operate appliance with a damaged cord or if the  
appliance has been dropped or damaged- until it has been  
examined by a qualified serviceman.  
Let appliance cool completely before putting away. Loop  
cord loosely around appliance when storing.  
To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not immerse this  
appliance in water or other liquids.  
To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not disassemble this  
appliance, but take it to a qualified serviceman when  
service or repair work is required. Incorrect reassembly can  
cause electric shock when the appliance is used  
subsequently.  
The use of an accessory attachment not recommended by  
the manufacturer may cause a risk of fire, electric shock, or  
injury to persons.  
Batteries may become hot or explode due to improper use.  
Use only the batteries specified in this instruction manual.  
Do not install the batteries with the polarity (+/-) reversed.  
Do not subject batteries to fire or high temperatures.  
Do not attempt to recharge (except for rechargeable  
batteries), short or disassemble.  
Do not mix, batteries of different types, brands or ages.  
SAVE THESE  
INSTRUCTIONS  
CAUTION  
Do not touch the flashtube during operation, it may become hot when the flash  
fires.  
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For customers in Europe  
Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic Equipment  
(Applicable in the European Union and other European  
countries with separate collection systems)  
This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this  
product shall not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be  
handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of  
electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring this product is  
disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative  
consequences for the environment and human health, which could  
otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this  
product. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural  
resources. For more detailed information about recycling of this  
product, please contact your local Civic Office, your household  
waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the  
product.  
Notice for the customers in the countries applying EU  
Directives  
The manufacturer of this product is Sony Corporation, 1-7-1 Konan Minato-ku  
Tokyo, 108-0075 Japan. The Authorized Representative for EMC and product  
safety is Sony Deutschland GmbH, Hedelfinger Strasse 61, 70327 Stuttgart,  
Germany. For any service or guarantee matters please refer to the addresses given  
in separate service or guarantee documents.  
For the customers in the U.S.A.  
CAUTION  
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this  
manual could void your authority to operate this equipment.  
NOTE:  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B  
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.  
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful  
interference in a residential installation.  
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not  
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful  
interference to radio communications.  
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However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur a particular  
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television  
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is  
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of following measures:  
– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
– Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the  
receiver is connected.  
– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
5
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Features .................................................................................................... 9  
Name of parts ........................................................................................ 10  
Preparations  
Inserting batteries .................................................................................. 15  
Attachment and removal of the flash unit ............................................. 18  
Turning on the power ............................................................................ 20  
Changing the flash mode ....................................................................... 22  
Basics  
Program auto flash (The basics) ............................................................ 25  
Using flash in each recording mode of the camera ............................... 29  
Applications  
Connecting camera and flash by cable .................................................. 69  
Using external battery adaptor ............................................................... 71  
AF illuminator ....................................................................................... 72  
Reset to the default settings ................................................................... 73  
Custom setting ....................................................................................... 74  
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Additional Information  
Notes on use .......................................................................................... 81  
Maintenance ........................................................................................... 83  
Specifications ........................................................................................ 84  
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Before use  
For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your camera.  
This flash unit is not dust-proof, splash-proof or waterproof.  
Do not place this flash unit in the following locations  
Regardless of whether this flash unit is in use or in storage, do not place it in any of  
the following locations. Doing so may lead to a malfunction.  
Placing this flash unit in locations subject to direct sunlight such as on  
dashboards or near a heater may cause this unit to deform or malfunction.  
Locations with excessive vibration  
Locations with strong electromagnetism  
Locations with excessive sand  
In locations such as the seashore and other sandy areas or where dust clouds  
occur, protect the unit from sand and dust.  
This may lead to a malfunction.  
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Features  
The HVL-F58AM is a functional, clip-on flash that provides a  
large flash output with a guide number of 58 (105 mm position,  
ISO 100 · m).  
,
,
page 84  
page 43  
Can be used with compatible lenses to enable ADI (Advanced  
Distance Integration) flash metering, which is not affected by  
the reflection rate of the background or subject.  
Enables wireless High-speed Sync.  
,
,
page 47  
page 36  
Quick shift bounce function enables  
you to set the upper or side position  
easily during bounce flash  
photography.  
Built-in bounce sheet enables you to create a highlight in the  
subject’s eyes.  
,
page 36  
Equipped with a wide, easy-to-see LCD panel.  
,
,
page 13  
page 34  
This flash unit supports flash coverage to a focal length of  
16 mm by using a built-in wide panel when the flash is  
triggered.  
Corrects the white balance automatically using the color  
temperature information.*  
,
,
page 28  
page 32  
Adjusts the optimum flash coverage according to the image  
sensor size of the camera.*  
*
When Sony digital single-lens reflex camera (other than the DSLR-A100) is used.  
9
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Name of parts  
A Built-in wide panel (page 34)  
E Mounting foot (page 18)  
F Terminal cap (page 69, 71)  
G Bounce sheet (page 36)  
B Flashtube  
C Wireless control signal receiver  
(page 54)  
D AF illuminator (page 72)  
Remove the protective sheet from the  
front of the AF illuminator before use.  
10  
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*
H Bounce indicator (upper angle)  
K Bounce indicator (side angle)  
(page 36)  
(page 36)  
I LCD panel (page 13)  
L Mounting-foot release button  
(page 19)  
J Control panel (page 12)  
M Battery-chamber door (page 15)  
N Mini-stand (page 57)  
* Tripod mount  
11  
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Control panel  
A TTL/M (MANUAL/MULTI)  
E POWER switch (page 20)  
button (page 44, 48, 61, 66, 73)  
F LCD illuminator button  
B MODE button (page 22)  
(page 24)  
C TEST button (page 31)  
G ZOOM button (page 32)  
The status while the lamp is lit  
Amber: Flash ready  
Green: Proper exposure  
D Fn (function)/direction buttons  
(page 44, 48, 61, 64, 66, 74)  
12  
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LCD panel  
A Zoom indicator (page 32)  
H Bounce indicator (page 36)  
B Flash mode indicator (page 22,  
I Custom indicator (page 74)  
61, 64, 66)  
J High-speed-sync indicator  
C Flash-OFF indicator (page 22)  
(page 47)  
D Power-level indicator (page 43,  
K Wide-panel indicator (page 34)  
L Low-battery indicator (page 16)  
M OVERHEAT indicator (page 17)  
N STANDBY indicator (page 21)  
48)  
E Zoom/Multiple-flash repetition  
display (page 32, 48)  
F mm indicator (page 32)  
O Wireless channel indicator  
G TIMES indicator (page 48)  
(page 54)  
P Wireless controller indicator  
(page 54)  
13  
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Q Wireless controller/remote  
X Multiple-flash indicator  
indicator (page 54)  
(page 48)  
R Flash-range/Multiple-flash  
frequency/flash-ratio display  
(page 27, 48, 66)  
Y Flash-range-warning (far side)  
indicator (page 27, 43)  
Z ft/m indicator (page 27, 43)  
S Ratio-flash indicator (page 66)  
wj Hz indicator (page 48)  
T Operating indicator (page 78)  
U Flash-range-warning (near side)  
indicator (page 27, 43)  
V TTL indicator (page 43)  
W Manual-flash indicator  
(page 43)  
14  
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Preparations  
Inserting batteries  
The HVL-F58AM may be powered by :  
Four AA-size alkaline batteries*  
Four AA-size rechargeable nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries*  
* Batteries are not supplied.  
Always ensure that rechargeable nickel-metal hydride batteries are charged in  
the specified charger unit.  
1 Open the battery-chamber door as shown.  
2 Insert the batteries in the battery chamber as in the  
diagram.  
3 Close the battery-chamber door.  
Follow the reverse procedure when opening the battery-chamber door.  
15  
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Checking Batteries  
The  
indicator on the data panel blinks when the batteries are low.  
blinking  
Changing the batteries is recommended.  
The flash unit can still be used when the  
TEST button lights up in amber.  
Only  
blinking  
Flash cannot be used.  
Insert new batteries.  
If nothing appears on the LCD panel when the POWER switch is set to ON,  
check the orientation of the batteries.  
16  
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OVERHEAT indicator  
When the temperature of this unit rises at the time of continuous flash use or use in  
a high temperature environment, the flash suspends operation automatically.  
The OVERHEAT indicator blinks when overheating is detected.  
The flash operation is suspended until the temperature of the unit falls.  
Set the POWER switch to OFF, and then stop use of the flash unit for Approx.  
10 minutes to allow the temperature of the unit to cool down.  
17  
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Attachment and removal of the  
flash unit  
Attaching the flash unit to the camera  
While the flash unit is turned off, push the mounting foot  
firmly onto the camera until it stops.  
The flash unit is locked in place automatically.  
If the built-in flash in the camera is protruding, lower it before attaching the  
flash unit.  
18  
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Removing the flash unit from the  
camera  
While pressing the mounting-foot release button 1,  
remove the flash unit 2.  
19  
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Turning on the power  
Set the POWER switch to ON.  
The power of the flash unit turns on.  
When the power of the flash unit is turned on, the LCD panel lights up.  
To turn the power off  
Set the POWER switch to OFF.  
20  
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Power save mode  
When the camera or flash unit is not used for three minutes, the flash unit changes  
to power save mode to save the batteries and STANDBY indicator appears on the  
LCD panel.  
During wireless flash photography (page 54), the flash unit changes to power  
save mode after 60 minutes.  
You can change the time until power save, or disable power save. (page 74)  
The flash unit turns into power save mode automatically when the POWER  
switch of the camera is set to OFF.*  
* When Sony digital single-lens reflex camera (other than DSLR-A100) is used.  
Since your camera does not communicate with the flash unit, the flash mode, the  
switching in TTL/M mode, power save, and the wide panel display are not  
interlocked with your camera when the camera is in power save mode or the  
LCD monitor is set to off.  
21  
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Changing the flash mode  
Press the MODE button.  
The indicator on the LCD panel changes as follows.  
When the flash unit is not connected to your camera, or when the camera is in  
power save mode or the LCD monitor is being turned off when the flash unit is  
connected to your camera:  
(
AUTO) t WL t  
t
(
AUTO) t . . .  
When your camera is turned on and the flash unit is connected to your camera  
(WL is not set up) :  
(
AUTO) t  
t
(
AUTO) t . . .  
[
AUTO] lights up when the camera is set to Autoflash. Only [ ] lights up  
when the camera is set to Full-flash.  
22  
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About flash mode  
(Fill-flash mode)  
The flash unit always fires.  
AUTO (Auto flash mode)  
The flash unit is set to this mode when the camera is set to auto flash.  
WL (Wireless flash mode)  
This mode is used during wireless flash photography.  
(Un-full-flash mode)  
The flash unit does not fire.  
23  
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LCD panel illuminator  
Illuminates the data panel at low-light levels.  
Press the  
button.  
The LCD panel is illuminated for approximately eight seconds. This period is  
extended if the flash or camera is used during this time.  
Press the  
button again while the LCD panel is illuminated to extinguish the  
LCD panel illuminator.  
24  
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Basics  
Program auto flash (The basics)  
1 Select the P mode on the camera.  
2 Press the MODE button to display [ AUTO] or [ ] on  
the LCD panel.  
[
AUTO] lights up when the camera is set to Autoflash. Only [ ] lights  
up when the camera is set to Full-flash.  
25  
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3 Press the shutter button halfway down and make sure  
that the subject is within the flash range.  
See page 27 for details on the flash range.  
4 When the flash unit is charged, press the shutter  
button to take a photo.  
The flash unit is fully charged when the TEST button on the control panel is  
lit in amber. You can also confirm that the flash unit is fully charged by the  
lighting of the “ ” indicator in the camera viewfinder.  
26  
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When the correct exposure has been obtained for the photo just taken, the  
TEST button on the control panel blinks in green.  
The photo will be under-exposed because of a lack of luminescence if taken  
before charging is complete.  
Press the shutter button after making sure that charging is complete when using  
the flash unit with the self-timer.  
If your camera has an AUTO mode or Scene Selection mode, they are dealt with  
here as program auto.  
The flash mode selected (auto flash ( AUTO), fill-flash ( ), or un-full-flash  
(
)) depends on your camera. For details, refer to the operating instructions of  
your camera.  
Flash range  
Press the shutter button halfway down.  
The flash range for the proper exposure is displayed on the LCD panel. Make sure  
that the subject is within this range and then take the photo.  
27  
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The range that can be displayed on the LCD panel is from 1.5 m to 28 m (0.7 m to  
28 m for downward bounce; see page 41). When the distance is beyond this range,  
or is lit on either side of the Flash range.  
Proper exposure is obtained at less than 1.5 m.  
Proper exposure is obtained from 1.5 m to 28 m or  
more.  
The flash range is not shown when using flash bounce above, with wireless  
flash, or when off-camera cables are used.  
When photographing beyond the lower limit of the flash range, the photo may be  
over-exposed even if the TEST button blinks in green, or the bottom of the  
picture may darken. Always photograph within the indicated flash range.  
Auto WB Adjustment with Color  
Temperature Info  
The flash unit sends color temperature info to an α camera. Color temperature is  
automatically adjusted to standard white by an α camera.  
This function works with TTL flash mode using the clip-on connection with the  
camera.  
This function does not work during manual flash photography.  
28  
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Using flash in each recording  
mode of the camera  
This section explains how to use the flash unit in each recording mode of the  
camera.  
Aperture priority flash photography  
(A)  
1 Select the A mode on the camera.  
2 Press the MODE button to display [ ].  
Fill-flash is selected.  
3 Set the aperture and focus the subject.  
Reduce the aperture (i.e. increase the f-stop) to reduce the flash range, or  
open the aperture (i.e. reduce the f-stop) to increase the flash range.  
The shutter speed is set automatically.  
4 Press the shutter button when charging is complete.  
29  
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Shutter speed priority flash  
photography (S)  
1 Select the S mode on the camera.  
2 Press the MODE button to display [ ].  
Fill-flash is selected.  
3 Set the shutter speed, and focus the subject.  
4 Press the shutter button when charging is complete.  
Manual exposure mode flash  
photography (M)  
1 Select the M mode on the camera.  
2 Press the MODE button to display [ ].  
Fill-flash is selected.  
3 Set the aperture and shutter speed, and focus the  
subject.  
Reduce the aperture (i.e. increase the f-stop) to reduce the flash range, or  
open the aperture (i.e. reduce the f-stop) to increase the flash range.  
4 Press the shutter button when charging is complete.  
30  
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Applications  
Test-flash  
You can try a test flash before shooting. Check the light level using the test flash  
when you use a flash meter, etc., in the manual flash (M) mode.  
Press the TEST button when the TEST button lights up in  
amber.  
The light level of the test-flash depends on the light level setting (page 43). The  
flash unit fires with a light level of 1/1 in TTL mode.  
You can check shadows on the subject before taking photos with the test-flash  
(modeling flash) function. The flash unit has two modeling flash modes, three  
times flashes mode and modeling flash mode in which the flash unit fires  
repeatedly for four seconds. For details on setting the test-flash mode, see  
“Custom setting” (page 74).  
TEST button  
The TEST button is turned on as follows, according to the current state of the flash  
unit.  
Amber: Flash ready  
Green: Proper exposure  
31  
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Zoom flash coverage  
Auto zoom  
This flash unit automatically switches optimum flash coverage (zoom flash  
coverage) to cover a range of focal lengths from 24 mm to 105 mm when  
photographing (auto zoom). Normally, you do not need to switch the flash  
coverage manually.  
The auto zoom is working when [A ZOOM] is displayed on the LCD panel. The  
zoom is not displayed on the LCD panel when [A ZOOM] is displayed.  
24 mm focal length  
105 mm focal length  
When a lens having a focal length of less than 24 mm is used with auto zoom,  
[WIDE] on the LCD panel blinks. Use of the built-in wide panel (page 34) is  
recommended in this case to prevent darkening at the periphery of the image.  
Auto zoom control optimized for  
image sensor size  
By using a Sony digital single lens reflex camera, other than the DSLR-A100, with  
this flash unit, the flash unit will provide optimal flash coverage according to the  
image sensor size (APS-C format/35 mm-format) of the camera.  
32  
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Manual zoom  
You can manually set the flash coverage regardless of the focal length of the lens in  
use (manual zoom).  
Press the ZOOM button to select the flash coverage to be  
set.  
The zoom coverage is changed in the following order.  
105 mm t 70 mm t 50 mm t 35 mm t 28 mm t 24 mm t A ZOOM  
t 105 mm t . . .  
When zoom is set manually, [M ZOOM] is displayed above zoom coverage.  
If the flash coverage is set to less than the focal length of the lens in use, the  
periphery of the screen darkens.  
The flash coverage of the manual zoom on the LCD panel is the angle of view of  
the 35mm-format focal length.  
33  
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Built-in wide panel (16 mm zoom  
angle)  
Pulling out the built-in wide panel expands flash coverage to a focal length of 16  
mm.  
Pull out the wide panel and set it at the front of flash tube,  
and then push back the bounce sheet.  
[WIDE] is displayed on the LCD panel.  
When putting back the wide panel, push it back in completely.  
Do not pull out the wide panel forcibly. This may damage the wide panel.  
When photographing a flat subject from the front at a focal length of about 16  
mm, the periphery of the screen may darken slightly because the focal distances  
at the center and periphery of the screen are different.  
When using a wide-angle lens with a focal length below 16 mm, the periphery of  
the screen may darken.  
The focal length corresponds to the equivalent 35mm-format focal length.  
This flash unit does not support the angle of view of a 16 mm F2.8 Fisheye lens.  
Push back the wide panel and the bounce sheet into the inside of the flash head  
when this flash unit is stored in the supplied case.  
34  
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Flash coverage & focal length  
The larger the focal length figure of the lens on a camera, the further away a  
subject can be photographed to take up the full screen; but the area that can be  
covered becomes smaller. Conversely, with a smaller focal length figure,  
subjects can be photographed with wider coverage. The flash coverage is the  
area that the light from the flash at a set intensity or greater can cover evenly,  
expressed as an angle. The flash coverage at which you can photograph is  
determined by the focal length.  
By having flash coverage determined in accordance with focal length, flash  
coverage can be expressed as the figure for focal length.  
35  
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Bounce flash  
Using the flash unit with a wall directly behind the subject produces strong  
shadows on the wall. By directing the flash unit at the ceiling you can illuminate the  
subject with reflected light, reducing the intensity of the shadows and producing a  
softer light on the screen.  
Bounce flash  
Normal flash  
36  
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Rotate the flash unit upwards or to the left and right while  
holding the camera firmly.  
appears on the LCD panel.  
The flash may be set to the following angles.  
Upwards: 45°, 60°, 75°, 90°, 120°, 150°  
Downwards: 10° (see “Close-up photography (downward bounce)” page 41)  
Right: 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°  
Left: 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°  
37  
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When the flash is rotated upwards, the flash range is not displayed on the LCD  
panel. High-speed sync (page 47) is also cleared.  
When the flash is rotated upwards, the bounce indicator does not appear.  
Use a white ceiling or wall to reflect the flash. A colored surface may color the  
light. High ceilings or glass are not recommended.  
Adjusting bounce angle  
Simultaneously using direct light and bounced light from the flash unit produces  
uneven lighting. Determine the bounce angle with respect to the distance to the  
reflective surface, the distance from the camera to the subject, the focal length of  
the lens, etc.  
Correct  
Incorrect  
38  
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When the flash is bounced upwards  
Determine the angle in relation to the following table.  
Focal length of lens  
70 mm minimum  
28 - 70 mm  
Bounce angle  
45°  
60°  
28 mm maximum  
75°, 90°  
Using the bounce sheet  
The bounce sheet creates a highlight in the subject's eyes and makes the subject  
look more vibrant.  
The bounce sheet is pulled out when the wide panel is pulled out. Push back the  
wide panel.  
When using the bounce sheet, set the bounce angle to 90° upwards.  
Quick shift bounce  
When shooting in the portrait position, you can set the same bounce flash as that  
used when shooting in the landscape position, and also use the control panel at  
proper direction.  
39  
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90° sideways bounce  
When the bounce angle is set to 90° sideways and 0° upwards while shooting in the  
portrait position, the top and bottom of the photo may darken. In this case, use the  
built-in wide panel or set the bounce angle to 0° sideways.  
blinks on the LCD panel.  
When the zoom flash coverage is set to [A ZOOM] while using 90° sideways  
bounce, the coverage is adjusted automatically to the wide angle. In this case,  
the flash range is shorter than that for 0° sideways bounce.  
40  
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Close-up photography  
(downward bounce)  
Tilt the flash slightly downwards when photographing objects between 0.7 m and  
1.5 m from the camera to ensure accurate illumination.  
Rotate the flash downwards with holding the camera  
firmly.  
The rotation angle is 10°.  
41  
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appears on the LCD panel.  
When photographing at a distance closer than 0.7 m, the flash will not be able to  
completely cover the subject and the bottom of the picture will be darker. Use an  
off-camera flash, Macro Twin Flash, or Ring Light.  
The downward bounce can be used only when the bounce angle is set to 0° or  
90° sideways.  
The lenses with long length may obstruct the flash light.  
42  
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Manual flash (M)  
Normal TTL flash metering automatically adjusts the flash intensity to provide the  
proper exposure for the subject. Manual flash provides a fixed flash intensity  
irrespective of the brightness of the subject and the camera setting.  
Manual flash can only be used when the camera is in the M mode. In other  
modes, TTL measuring is selected automatically.  
As manual flash is not affected by the reflectivity of the subject, it is convenient  
for use with subjects with extremely high or low reflectivity.  
TTL flash metering  
Manual flash metering  
1 Select the M mode on the camera.  
43  
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2 Press the TTL/M button to display  
panel.  
on the LCD  
The modes change in the following order.  
,
,
3 Press the g or G button to select the power level to be  
set.  
The power level is changed in following order.  
1/1 t 1/2 t 1/4 t 1/8 t 1/16 t 1/32  
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When the shutter button is pressed halfway down, the distance at which the  
proper exposure is obtained appears on the LCD panel.  
Proper exposure is obtained at less than 1.5 m.  
Proper exposure is obtained at more than 28 m.  
In manual flash photography, if the power level is set at 1/1 then the flash will go  
off at full power. The power level range (e.g. 1/1 t 1/2) corresponds to the  
aperture range (e.g. F4 t 5.6).  
The flash range check indication of the TEST button (blinks in green) does not  
work after a photo is taken with the manual flash.  
Using custom functions, manual flash may be selected without changing the  
camera to the M mode (page 74).  
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TTL flash  
Manual flash provides a fixed flash intensity irrespective of the brightness of  
the subject and the camera setting. TTL* flash measures the light from the  
subject that is reflected through the lens.  
TTL metering also has a P-TTL metering function, which adds a pre-flash to  
TTL metering, and an ADI metering function, which adds distance data to the  
P-TTL metering.  
This flash unit defines all P-TTL and ADI metering as TTL flash and  
is displayed on the LCD panel.  
*TTL = through the lens  
ADI metering is possible in combination with a lens with a built-in distance  
encoder. Before using the ADI metering function, check whether your lens  
has a built-in distance encoder by referring to the specifications in the  
operating instructions supplied with your lens.  
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High-speed sync (HSS)  
High-speed sync  
Normal flash  
High-speed sync eliminates the restrictions of flash sync speed and enables the  
flash to be used through the entire shutter speed range of the camera. The increased  
selectable aperture range allows flash photography with a wide aperture, leaving  
the background out of focus and accentuating the front subject. Even when  
photographing at a wide f-stop in the A mode or M mode of the camera, when the  
background is very bright and the shot will normally be over-exposed, you can  
adjust the exposure by using the high-speed shutter.  
For details on setting the HSS features, see “Custom setting” (page 74).  
Flash Sync Speed  
Flash photography is generally associated with a maximum shutter speed  
referred to as the flash sync speed. This restriction does not apply to cameras  
designed for high-speed sync (HSS) photography, since they allow flash  
photography at the maximum shutter speed of the camera.  
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Multiple flash (MULTI)  
The flash is triggered a number of times while the shutter is open (multiple flash).  
Multiple flash allows motion of the subject to be captured in a photograph for later  
analysis.  
The camera must be set to the M mode for multiple flash photography.  
1 Set the camera to the M mode.  
2 Press the TTL/M button to display  
panel.  
on the LCD  
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3 Press the Fn button to make [TIMES] blink.  
The current number of flashes for multiple flash is displayed on the LCD  
panel.  
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4 Press the f or F button to select the number of  
flashes.  
The number of flashes may be selected from the following.  
- -, 100, 90, 80, 70, 60, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2  
Keep the f or F button pressed down to repeatedly change the value.  
When “--” is selected, flashes continue at the set frequency while the shutter  
is open.  
5 Press the Fn button to make [Hz] blink.  
The current multiple flash frequency (flashes per second) is displayed on  
the LCD panel.  
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6 Press the f or F button to select the flash frequency.  
The flash frequency may be selected from the following.  
100, 90, 80, 70, 60, 50, 40, 30, 20, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1  
Keep the f or F button pressed down to repeatedly change the value.  
7 Press the Fn button to make the power-level indicator  
blink.  
The current power level is displayed.  
8 Press the g or G button to select the power level to be  
set.  
The power level may be selected from the following.  
1/8, 1/16, 1/32  
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9 Press the Fn button.  
10 Set the shutter speed and aperture.  
The shutter speed is calculated as follows to suit the selected flash  
frequency and number of flashes.  
Number of flashes (TIME) ÷ Flash frequency (Hz) = Shutter speed  
For example, when ten flashes and 5 Hz are selected, 10 ÷ 5 = 2 requires a  
shutter speed of longer than two seconds.  
11 When the flash is fully charged, press the shutter  
button to take the photo.  
The distance at which the proper exposure is obtained with a single flash is  
displayed on the LCD panel.  
To prevent shaking, the use of a tripod is recommended during multiple  
flash photography.  
Test flash will flash at the selected frequency/number/level while the TEST  
button is being pressed if [TEST1] is selected in the custom setting. When  
[TEST3] or [TESTM] is selected, the flash three times or the four second  
modeling flash has priority.  
The use of custom settings allows the camera to be set up for multiple flash  
photography without selecting the M mode (page 74).  
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Maximum number of continuous flashes  
The maximum number of continuous flashes during multiple flash photography is  
limited by the charge in the battery. Use the following values as a guide.  
With alkaline batteries  
Flash frequency (Hz)  
Power level  
100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10  
9
8
7
6
6
6
5
7
4
8
3
2
1
1/8  
4
8
4
8
4
8
4
8
4
8
4
8
4
8
4
8
4
8
5
5
6
10 14 14  
1/16  
1/32  
10 15 15 15 20 20 20 35 40 100  
14 14 14 14 14 18 18 20 20 25 35 35 40 50 50 50 50 100 100*  
*100 signifies more than 100.  
With nickel-metal hydride batteries (When using 2500 mAh)  
Flash frequency (Hz)  
Power level  
100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10  
9
8
7
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
1/8  
4
8
4
8
4
8
4
8
4
8
4
9
5
5
5
7
7
7
10 10 15 20 50 100  
1/16  
1/32  
10 10 10 15 15 15 20 20 30 50 100 100* 100*  
15 17 17 17 18 18 18 20 25 50 60 70 70 70 70 100* 100* 100* 100*  
*100 signifies more than 100.  
The maximum number of flashes varies with the type of battery and its  
condition. If an External Battery Adaptor FA-EB1AM (optional) is used, the  
maximum number of flashes increases beyond the values given above.  
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Wireless flash mode (WL)  
Photographs taken with the flash unit attached to the camera are flat as shown in  
photo 1. In such cases, remove the flash unit from the camera and position it to  
obtain a more three-dimensional effect as shown in photo 2. And by using 2 or  
more flash units, you can create more detailed light conditions as shown in photo  
3.  
When taking this type of photograph with a single lens reflex camera, the camera  
and the flash unit are most commonly connected by a cable. This flash eliminates  
the need for a cable to transmit signals to the flash unit by using the light of the  
flash itself as a signal. The correct exposure is determined automatically by the  
camera.  
Normal flash  
Wireless flash  
Wireless flash  
(Lighting ratio control mode)  
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Wireless Flash Range  
The wireless flash uses a light signal from the flash as a trigger to operate the off-  
camera flash unit. Follow the points below when positioning the camera, flash, and  
subject.  
Photograph in dark locations indoors.  
If you rotate the flashtube using the bounce-flash function (page 36) so that the  
wireless control-signal receiver points toward the camera, it will be easier for the  
flash to receive signals from the camera.  
Place the off-camera flash within the gray area in the following diagram.  
Distance between flash  
and subject  
(see Table 2)  
Distance between camera and subject  
(see Table 1)  
Do not place the flash directly  
behind the subject  
Place the camera and flash unit  
within a 1 to 5 m radius of the  
subject  
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Distance camera-HVL-F58AM-subject  
Distance HVL-F58AM - subject  
(Table 2)  
Distance  
camera-subject  
(Table 1)  
Other than HSS  
HSS  
Shutter speed  
All shutter speeds Sync speed or slower 1/250 sec  
1/500 sec 1/1000 sec 1/2000 sec  
Aperture  
2.8  
4
1.4 - 5  
1 - 5  
1.4 - 5  
1 - 5  
1 - 3.5  
1 - 2.5  
1 - 1.7  
1 - 2.5  
1 - 1.7  
1 - 1.2  
1 - 1.7  
1 - 1.2  
1 - 1.2  
5.6  
1 - 5  
1 - 5  
Units: m  
The distances in the above table assume the use of ISO 100. If ISO 400 is used  
the distances must be multiplied by a factor of two (assume a limit of 5 m).  
The flash range is not displayed on the LCD panel when using wireless flash.  
Notes on wireless flash  
You cannot use a flash meter or color meter in wireless flash mode because the  
pre-flash goes off.  
Test flash for the wireless flash is in the currently selected test flash mode. One  
flash occurs with [TEST1] and three flashes with [TEST3]. Flashes continue for  
four seconds with [TESTM]. For details of test flash, See “Custom setting”  
(page 74).  
The zoom position for the HVL-F58AM is automatically set to 24 mm. A zoom  
position other than 24 mm is not recommended.  
In wireless flash mode, ADI metering is canceled and P-TTL flash metering is  
used automatically (page 43).  
Multiple flash cannot be used.  
If another wireless flash is being used nearby, you can change the channel in the  
custom settings to prevent interference (page 74).  
When photographing with the wireless flash, the flash unit may in rare cases go  
off by mistake due to ambient static electricity or electromagnetic noise.  
When the flash is not in use, select [  
] using the MODE button.  
The flash unit may in rare cases provide incorrect luminescence because the  
signal light does not reach the subject, etc,. due to the position in which the  
wireless flash was installed. In this case you can prevent incorrect luminescence  
by changing the installation position of the wireless flash or changing the  
wireless channel setting in the custom setting (page 74).  
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Opening and closing the mini-stand  
The mini-stand is collapsible and must be open when used.  
Attaching and removing the mini-  
stand  
Use the supplied mini-stand when the flash unit is separate from the camera.  
Attachment  
Removal  
You can attach the flash unit to a tripod using the tripod socket holes in the mini-  
stand. Use the tripod equipped with the screw under 5.5 mm. Because the tripod  
equipped with the screw over 5.5 mm cannot hold the mini-stand firmly, mini-  
stand may be damaged.  
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When mini-stand break into each part, fit the part of shaft into the other part.  
Possible wireless flash photography  
for this flash unit  
The following methods for wireless flash photography can be used with this flash  
unit.  
[1] Wireless flash photography when the camera has a built-in flash  
By using the camera’s built-in flash as a controller, this flash unit can fire as a off-  
camera flash.  
[2] Wireless flash photography when the camera does not have a  
built-in flash (without lighting ratio control)  
Even if the camera does not have a built-in flash, you can take a photo with wireless  
flash by using this flash unit as a controller and the another flash unit as off-camera  
flash.  
[3] Wireless flash photography with lighting ratio control  
You can take a photo with wireless flash while controlling the lighting ratio of  
some groups of flash units by using this flash unit as a controller.  
(1) When using HVL-F58AM/HVL-F42AM as off-camera flash, you can  
control the lighting ratio up to 3 groups ([CTRL], [RMT], [RMT2]). You can  
use this function with DSLR-A900/A700.  
(2) When using HVL-F56AM/HVL-F36AM as off-camera flash, you can  
control the lighting ratio of the 2 groups ([CTRL], [RMT]). You can use this  
function with a DSLR-A900.  
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For details, see “Combination of camera, off-camera flash and controller.”  
You can use several off-camera flashes at the same time.  
The off-camera flash fires with the power level set in each flash when the off-  
camera flash is in the MANUAL mode.  
In this manual, “controller” means the flash unit attached to a camera, and “off-  
camera flash” means the flash unit removed from a camera for use.  
Combination of camera, off-camera flash and controller  
*1  
*1  
*2  
Types  
Camera  
Off-camera flash  
Controller  
Sony digital single HVL-F58AM/HVL-  
lens reflex cameras F42AM/HVL-F56AM/  
Camera’s built-in  
flash  
[1]With built-in flash  
with built-in flash  
HVL-F36AM  
HVL-F58AM*3/HVL- HVL-F58AM:  
F42AM  
[CTRL1] mode*4  
Cameras without  
[2]Without built-in flash built-in flash  
DSLR-A900  
HVL-F58AM/HVL-  
F42AM/HVL-F56AM/  
HVL-F36AM  
HVL-F58AM:  
[CTRL2] mode*4*5  
[3]-(1)  
DSLR-A700/  
Control up  
DSLR-A900  
HVL-F58AM /HVL-  
F42AM*6  
HVL-F58AM:  
[CTRL1] mode*4  
[3]Lighting  
ratio  
control  
to 3 groups  
[3]-(2)  
Control of DSLR-A900  
2 groups  
HVL-F58AM/HVL-  
F42AM/HVL-F56AM/  
HVL-F36AM  
HVL-F58AM:  
[CTRL2] mode*4*5  
*1  
*2  
For details about cameras and flash units that is not listed above, see the operating  
instructions supplied with each product.  
When using DSLR-A100/A200/A300/A350, this flash unit cannot be set to controller  
mode. If the flash unit is already set to controller mode, the setting is canceled  
automatically. For other cameras, see the operating instructions supplied with each  
camera.  
*3  
Set the wireless control/remote mode to [RMT].  
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*4  
This flash unit has two wireless control modes, [CTRL1] and [CTRL2]. The wireless  
controller indicator on the LCD panel is displayed as follows.  
[CTRL1] mode: [CTRL+]  
When using HVL-F58AM/HVL-F42AM as off-camera flash, select this mode.  
[CTRL2] mode: [CTRL]  
When using HVL-F56AM/HVL-F36AM as off-camera flash, select this mode.  
When you change the controller mode, set [C03] in the custom setting (page 74).  
When using DSLR-A700, this flash unit cannot be set to [CTRL](CTRL2). If the flash  
unit is already set to [CTRL], the setting is canceled automatically. For other cameras,  
see the operating instructions supplied with each camera.  
*5  
*6  
HVL-F42AM used as off-camera flash is included in the [RMT] group.  
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[1] Wireless flash photography with  
built-in flash of the camera  
Use only an off-camera flash unit, using the light from the built-in flash as a signal.  
Built-in flash  
Flash unit  
1 Attach the flash unit to the camera and turn the power  
of the flash unit and camera on.  
2 Set the camera to wireless flash.  
The setting method differs depending on the camera used. For details, refer  
to the operating instructions of your camera.  
When the camera is set to wireless the flash is also set to wireless  
automatically, and WL is displayed on the LCD panel.  
The flash channel information is transmitted to the camera.  
The light level can be changed even for the wireless flash mode. For details,  
refer to page 74.  
3 Remove the flash unit from the camera and raise the  
built-in flash.  
4 Set up the camera and flash unit.  
Set up the camera and flash unit in a dark location, such as indoors.  
See page 55 for details.  
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5 Make sure that the built-in flash and flash unit are fully  
charged.  
” is lit in the viewfinder when the built-in flash is fully charged.  
When the flash unit is fully charged in the wireless flash mode, the AF  
illuminator on the front blinks, and the TEST button is lit in amber.  
6 Use test-flash to check the flash.  
Make sure that the wireless remote mode of the flash unit is set to [RMT] or  
[RMT2].  
During wireless flash photography, the test-flash method differs depending  
on the camera used. For details, refer to the operation instructions of your  
camera.  
If the test-flash does not work, change the position of the camera, flash, and  
subject, or point the wireless control-signal receiver towards the camera.  
7 Check again that the built-in flash and the flash unit are  
fully charged, and press the shutter button to take the  
photo.  
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Setting wireless flash by flash only  
Once you have performed the wireless flash setup in step [1], if you continue to use  
the same camera and flash combination without changing the wireless channel then  
you can also set the flash and camera separately to wireless.  
Camera setting:  
Set the camera to the wireless flash mode.  
For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your camera.  
Flash setting:  
1
Press the TTL/M button to display  
or  
.
When selecting  
set.  
, the flash unit fires with the power level to be  
2
3
4
5
Press the MODE button repeatedly to display [ WL].  
Press the Fn button.  
Press the g or G button to make [RMT] or [RMT2] blink.  
Press the Fn button.  
Make sure that the wireless channel of the off-camera flash is set to the  
same channel as the controller. For details on setting the wireless channel,  
see “Custom setting” (page 74).  
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[2] Wireless flash photography  
without built-in flash of camera  
You can take a photo with wireless flash by using 2 flash units, one as a controller  
and the other as an off-camera flash unit, even if the camera does not have a built-in  
flash.  
This flash unit must be used as the controller.  
This flash unit  
Off-camera flash  
1 Set the camera, flash (controller), flash (off-camera  
flash) to wireless flash.  
Camera Setting:  
Set the camera to wireless flash.  
For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your camera.  
Controller Setting:  
1
Press the MODE button repeatedly to display  
[ WL].  
2
3
4
Press the Fn button.  
Press the g or G button to make [CTRL] blink.  
Press the Fn button.  
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5
6
Press the g or G button to make RATIO [OFF] blink.  
Press the Fn button.  
[CTRL+] or [CTRL] is displayed.  
Off-camera flash setting:  
Set the wireless flash while the flash unit is attached to the camera, and then  
remove it from the camera. For details, refer to the operating instructions  
supplied with the external flash. When the HVL-F58AM is used as the off-  
camera flash, see page 63, and set the remote mode to [RMT].  
2 Attach the controller to the camera, and turn on the  
power of the camera, controller, off-camera flash.  
3 Set up the camera with the controller and the off-  
camera flash.  
See page 55 for details.  
4 Make sure that the controller and the flash unit are fully  
charged.  
When the flash unit is fully charged in the wireless flash mode, the AF  
illuminator on the front blinks, and the TEST button is lit in amber.  
5 Use test-flash to check the flash.  
The test-flash method differs depending on the camera used. For details,  
refer to the operating instructions of your camera.  
If the test-flash does not work, change the position of the camera, flash, and  
subject, or point the wireless control-signal receiver towards the camera.  
Moreover, make sure that wireless channel of the off-camera flash is set to  
the same channel as the controller.  
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6 Check again that the controller and the flash unit are  
fully charged, and press the shutter button to take the  
photo.  
Even if RATIO is set to [OFF], the controller flashes to transmit a signal.  
[3] Wireless flash photography with  
the lighting ratio control  
You can take a photo with wireless flash while controlling the lighting ratio of the  
controller and 2 groups of off-camera flash units (RMT, RMT2).  
This flash unit  
(Controller)  
Off-camera flash  
Off-camera flash  
(RMT2)  
(RMT)  
Any combination of HVL-F58AM/HVL-F42AM/HVL-F56AM/HVL-F36AM can be  
used in a group with [RMT]. For [RMT2], only HVL-F58AM that is set to [CTRL1]  
can be used in a group.  
When using HVL-F56AM/HVL-F36AM as off-camera flash, set the controller mode  
to [CTRL2]. In [CTRL2] mode, you can control the lighting ratio of only 2 groups. For  
details on setting the controller mode, see [C03] in “Custom setting” (page 74).  
The whole power level ratio is displayed using the flash-range/multiple-flash  
frequency/flash-ratio display on the LCD panel for the wireless flash photography with  
the lighting ratio control.  
e.g.)  
When a display is [4:2:1], the flash of each group fires with power level of 4/7, 2/7 and  
1/7 of the whole.  
1 Set the camera, flash (controller), and flash (off-camera  
flash) to wireless flash.  
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Camera Setting:  
Set the camera to wireless flash.  
For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your camera.  
Controller Setting:  
1
Press the MODE button repeatedly to display  
[ WL].  
2
3
4
5
6
7
Press the Fn button.  
Press the g or G button to make [CTRL] blink.  
Press the Fn button.  
Press the g or G button to make RATIO [ON] blink.  
Press the Fn button.  
Press the f or F button to select the lighting ratio.  
The lighting ratio may be set to the following.  
1, 2, 4, 8, 16, --*  
* The flash unit cannot flash when the lighting ratio is set to [--].  
8
Press the g or G button to select the lighting ratio  
of the controller and off-camera flash units (RMT,  
RMT2).  
Set the power level ratio to [--] on the flash unit when there is an off-  
camera flash (RMT/RMT2) you don't want to fire when you use the  
flash unit with the controller after setting the flash unit to [CTRL1].  
9
Press the Fn button.  
10 Press the TTL/M button to display  
.
When  
is selected, manual setting flash is used with the  
lighting ratio control.  
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Off-camera flash setting:  
Set the wireless flash while the flash unit is attached to the camera, and then  
remove it from the camera. For details, refer to the operating instructions  
supplied with the external flash. When the HVL-F58AM is used as the off-  
camera flash, see page 63.  
2 Attach the controller to the camera, and turn on the  
power of the camera, controller, and off-camera flash.  
3 Set up the camera with the controller and the off-  
camera flash.  
See page 55 for details.  
4 Make sure that the controller and the flash unit are fully  
charged.  
When the flash unit is fully charged in the wireless flash mode, the AF  
illuminator on the front blinks, and the TEST button is lit in amber.  
5 Use test-flash to check the flash.  
The test-flash method differs depending on the camera used. For details,  
refer the operating instructions of your camera.  
If the test-flash does not work, change the position of the camera, flash and  
subject, or point the wireless control-signal receiver towards the camera.  
Moreover, make sure that the wireless channel of the off-camera flash is set  
to the same channel as the controller.  
6 Check again that the controller and the flash unit are  
fully charged, and press the shutter button to take the  
photo.  
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Connecting camera and flash by  
cable  
Using the off-camera cables FA-CC1AM (optional) allows photography with flash  
units separate from the camera. Up to four flash units can be connected together.  
Being able to take photographs without having to consider the positioning of the  
flash unit provides considerable freedom to create a variety of shadow effects on  
the subject.  
Flash units with accessory terminals can be connected directly.  
1 Remove the terminal cap.  
2 Plug the cable into the accessory terminal.  
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In this mode, ADI metering will be canceled and Pre-flash TTL metering  
will be used automatically (page 43).  
High-speed sync in the P mode cannot be used when the flash is connected  
with the off-camera cable FA-CC1AM (optional).  
All the flash units are at the same power level in TTL flash mode.  
During photography with off-camera cable, the wireless controller mode is  
canceled automatically and you cannot use the flash photography with  
lighting ratio control.  
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Using external battery adaptor  
You can use an External Battery Adaptor FA-EB1AM (optional) as an external  
power supply.  
1 Remove the terminal cap.  
2 Insert the plug of connection cable into the external  
power terminal.  
Use an external battery adaptor or cable for this flash unit for the external  
power terminal or accessory terminals.  
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AF illuminator  
In low-light or when subject contrast is low, when the shutter button is pressed  
halfway down for Auto Focus, the red lamp on the front of the flash unit will light.  
This is the AF illuminator used as an aid in Auto Focus.  
The AF illuminator operates even when [  
The camera AF illuminator does not operate while the flash AF illuminator is  
operating.  
] is displayed on the LCD panel.  
The AF illuminator does not operate while Continuous AF is used in focusing  
mode (when continually focusing on a moving subject).  
The AF illuminator may not operate if the focal length of the lens is greater than  
300 mm. The flash unit will not operate when removed from the camera.  
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Reset to the default settings  
Press the MODE and TTL/M buttons together for three  
seconds.  
Most flash functions return to their default settings.  
Item  
Default settings  
On ( Auto or  
Page  
22  
Flash on/off  
)
Flash coverage (zoom)  
Auto zoom (105 mm)  
32  
Flash mode (TTL/M/MULTI)  
Wireless flash (WL)  
TTL  
RMT  
1:1:1  
1/1  
43, 48  
54  
Lighting ratio  
66  
Power level in TTL/M (LEVEL)  
Power level in multiple flash (LEVEL)  
Frequency in multiple flash (Hz)  
Repetition in multiple flash (TIMES)  
Custom setting is not reset.  
43, 48  
48  
1/32  
5
48  
10  
48  
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Custom setting  
The various flash settings may be changed as necessary.  
The following eight items may be changed.  
HSS setting (on/off)  
Wireless channel setting (channels 1 to 4)  
Wireless controller mode setting (1/2)  
Recording mode in which manual flash or multiple-flash may be set (M mode  
only/all modes)  
Test-flash setting (once/3 times/4 seconds)  
Time to power save (30 seconds/3 minutes/30 minutes/none)  
Time to power save when using wireless flash (60 minutes/none)  
Flash range units (m/ft)  
Performing the custom setting  
The custom setting is changed as follows.  
1 Press the Fn button for three seconds while the  
POWER switch is set to ON.  
The first item (HSS setting) is displayed.  
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2 Press the g or G button to select the item.  
For details on the each setting, refer to “Changing the custom setting”  
(page 78).  
3 Press the Fn button to finish the custom setting.  
The LCD panel returns to the original display.  
When a setting other than the default setting is selected in C03, C04, C06 or  
C07,  
remains on the LCD panel.  
The selected settings are maintained even if the flash unit is switched off or  
the battery is removed.  
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Select with the f button or F button  
C01. HSS setting  
on  
off  
C02. Wireless channel setting  
Channel 1  
Channel 2  
Channel 3  
Channel 4  
C03. Wireless controller mode setting  
Control 1  
Control 2  
C04. Recording mode in which manual flash or multiple-flash may  
be set  
M mode only  
All modes  
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Select with the f button or F button  
C05. Test-flash setting  
Once  
3 times  
4 seconds  
C06. Time to power save  
30 seconds  
3 minutes  
30 minutes  
none  
C07. Time to power save when using wireless flash  
60 minutes  
none  
C08. Flash range units  
m
ft  
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Changing the custom setting  
This is an explanation of how to change each custom setting is given below.  
To set the high-speed sync (C01)  
You can set the high-speed sync.  
Press the f or F button to select [ON].  
The display switches between [ON] and [OFF].  
This flash unit is set to high-speed sync automatically when the shutter speed is  
set faster than flash sync speed. Flash sync speed may differ depending on the  
camera. For further details of flash sync speed, refer to operating instructions  
supplied with your camera.  
Taking photos in bright locations is recommended.  
High-speed sync cannot be used with bounce flash.  
Using a flash meter or color meter with high-speed sync is not recommended  
because it interferes with achieving the proper exposure and color.  
The flash range becomes shorter than that of normal flash photography when the  
high speed sync is used. Make sure that the subject is in the flash range.  
You can also use the high speed sync with when using wireless flash  
photography.  
If you select [OFF], high-speed sync is cancelled. When high-speed sync is  
cancelled, the shutter speed cannot be set faster than the sync speed.  
To change the channel setting of the wireless flash (C02)  
You can change the wireless channel to prevent interference when another flash is  
used nearby.  
Press the f or F button to select the desired setting.  
The display is changed in the following order.  
[CH-1] y [CH-2] y [CH-3] y [CH-4] y . . .  
Attach the flash unit to the camera and press the shutter button partway down  
after changing the channel.  
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To select wireless control mode (C03)  
You can change the wireless control mode. This flash unit has two controller  
modes, [CTRL1] and [CTRL2]. The wireless controller indicator on the LCD panel  
is displayed as follows.  
[CTRL1] mode: [CTRL+]  
When using HVL-F58AM/HVL-F42AM as off-camera flash, select this mode.  
[CTRL2] mode: [CTRL]  
When using HVL-F56AM/HVL-F36AM as off-camera flash, select this mode.  
Press the f or F button to select the wireless control mode.  
The display switches between [CTRL1] and [CTRL2].  
To change the recording mode that can use the manual  
flash mode (M) and multiple flash mode (C04)  
You can change the recording mode that can use the manual flash mode (M) and  
multiple flash mode.  
Press the f or F button to select the recording mode that can use the  
manual flash mode and multiple flash mode.  
The display is changed as following.  
M: (corresponds M mode of the camera only)  
PASM: (corresponds all modes of the camera)  
When [PASM] is selected, manual flash photography and multiple flash  
photography may be used in all recording modes of your camera. The proper  
exposure may not be obtained with photography in modes other than the M  
mode of your camera, therefore we recommend the M mode of your camera.  
This flash unit is set to TTL flash mode when you set the recording mode of  
the camera to [AUTO].  
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To change the test-flash mode (C05)  
You can change the flashing method when using test-flash.  
Press the f or F button to select the test-flash setting.  
The display is changed in the following order.  
[TEST1] y [TEST3] y [TESTM] y . . .  
[TEST1] : flashes once at the set light level.  
[TEST3] : flashes three times at a specific rate.  
[TESTM] : flashes for four seconds at a specific rate.  
To change the time to power save (C06)  
You can change the time to power save.  
Press the f or F button to select the desired time until power save.  
The display is changed in the following order.  
[PS 0.5] y [PS 3] y [PS 30] y [PS --] y [PS 0.5] y . . .  
[PS 0.5] : changes to power save mode after 30 seconds.  
[PS 3] : changes to power save mode after 3 minutes.  
[PS 30] : changes to power save mode after 30 minutes.  
[PS --] : disables power save mode.  
To change the time to power save when using wireless  
flash (C07)  
You can change the time to power save when using wireless flash.  
Press the f or F button to select the time until power save when using  
wireless flash.  
The display switches between [PS 60] and [PS --].  
[PS 60] : changes to power save mode after 60 minutes.  
[PS --] : disables power save mode.  
To change the flash range units (C08)  
You can change the flash range units displayed.  
Press the f or F button to select the units.  
The display switches between [m] and [ft].  
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Additional Information  
Notes on use  
While shooting  
This flash unit generates strong light, so it should not be used directly in front of  
the eyes.  
Do not use the flash 20 times in a row or in quick succession in order to prevent  
heating and degradation of the camera and flash unit. (when the power level is  
1/32, 40 times in a row.)  
Stop using the flash unit and cool it for 10 minutes or more, if the flash is  
triggered up to the limit for the number of times in quick succession.  
Attach the camera while the flash unit is turned off.  
If you do not do so, you may cause a malfunction of the flash unit or the use of  
an incorrect luminescence, and the powerful light may damage your eyes.  
Do not use the flash near people when rotating the flashtube during bounce  
photography. The flash light may damage the eyes, or the hot flashtube may  
cause a burn.  
Batteries  
The battery level displayed on the LCD panel may be lower than the actual  
battery capacity, due to temperature and storage conditions. The displayed  
battery level is restored to the correct value after the flash has been used a few  
times.  
Nickel-metal hydride batteries can lose power suddenly. If the low-battery  
indicator starts blinking or the flash can no longer be used while taking pictures,  
change or recharge the batteries.  
The flash frequency and number of flashes provided by new batteries may vary  
from the values shown in the table, depending on the time elapsed since  
manufacture of the batteries.  
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Remove the batteries only after turning the power off and waiting several  
minutes, when changing the batteries. The batteries may be hot, depending on  
the battery type. Remove them carefully.  
Remove and store the batteries when you do not intend to use the camera for a  
long time.  
Temperature  
The flash unit may be used over a temperature range of 0 °C to 40 °C.  
Do not expose the flash unit to extremely high temperatures (e.g. in direct  
sunlight inside a vehicle) or high humidity.  
To prevent condensation forming on the flash, place it in a sealed plastic bag  
when bringing it from a cold environment into a warm environment. Allow it to  
reach room temperature before removing it from the bag.  
Battery capacity decreases at colder temperatures. Keep your camera and spare  
batteries in a warm inside pocket when shooting in cold weather. The  
low-battery indicator may blink even when there is some power left in the  
batteries in cold weather. Batteries will regain some of their capacity when  
warmed to normal operating temperature.  
This flash unit is not waterproof. Be careful not to bring it into contact with  
water or sand when using it at the seashore, for example. Contact with water,  
sand, dust, or salt may result in a malfunction.  
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Maintenance  
Remove this unit from the camera. Clean the flash with a dry soft cloth. If the flash  
has been in contact with sand, wiping will damage the surface, and it should  
therefore be cleaned gently using a blower. In the event of stubborn stains, use a  
cloth lightly dampened with a mild detergent solution, and then wipe the unit clean  
with a dry soft cloth. Never use strong solvents, such as thinner or benzine, as these  
damage the surface finish.  
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Specifications  
Guide number  
Normal flash (ISO100)  
Manual flash/35mm-format  
Flash coverage setting (mm)  
Power level  
16*  
17  
24  
28  
31  
35  
36  
50  
70  
105  
58  
1/1  
1/2  
29  
42  
48  
11.9  
8.4  
5.9  
4.2  
3.0  
20.8  
14.7  
10.4  
7.4  
21.8  
15.4  
10.9  
7.7  
25.1  
17.8  
12.6  
8.9  
29.6  
20.9  
14.8  
10.5  
7.4  
34.2  
24.2  
17.1  
12.1  
8.6  
41.0  
29.0  
20.5  
14.5  
10.3  
1/4  
1/8  
1/16  
1/32  
5.2  
5.4  
6.3  
*
When the wide panel is attached.  
APS-C format  
Power level  
Flash coverage setting (mm)  
16*  
17  
24  
31  
28  
36  
35  
50  
70  
105  
58  
1/1  
1/2  
42  
48  
52  
11.9  
8.4  
5.9  
4.2  
3.0  
21.8  
15.4  
10.9  
7.7  
25.1  
17.8  
12.6  
8.9  
29.6  
20.9  
14.8  
10.5  
7.4  
34.2  
24.2  
17.1  
12.1  
8.6  
36.8  
26.0  
18.4  
13.0  
9.2  
41.0  
29.0  
20.5  
14.5  
10.3  
1/4  
1/8  
1/16  
1/32  
5.4  
6.3  
*
When the wide panel is attached.  
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HSS flat flash (ISO100)  
Manual flash/35mm-format  
Flash coverage setting (mm)  
Shutter speed  
16*  
6.7  
4.7  
3.3  
2.4  
1.7  
1.2  
0.8  
24  
11.8  
8.4  
5.9  
4.2  
3.0  
2.1  
1.5  
28  
12.9  
9.1  
6.4  
4.6  
3.2  
2.3  
1.6  
35  
14.8  
10.5  
7.4  
50  
17.3  
12.2  
8.6  
70  
19.5  
13.8  
9.8  
105  
22.4  
15.9  
11.2  
7.9  
1/250  
1/500  
1/1000  
1/2000  
1/4000  
1/8000  
1/12000  
5.2  
6.1  
6.9  
3.7  
4.3  
4.9  
5.6  
2.6  
3.1  
3.5  
4.0  
1.8  
2.2  
2.4  
2.8  
*
When the wide panel is attached.  
APS-C format  
Shutter speed  
Flash coverage setting (mm)  
16*  
6.7  
4.7  
3.3  
2.4  
1.7  
1.2  
0.8  
24  
12.9  
9.1  
6.4  
4.6  
3.2  
2.3  
1.6  
28  
14.8  
10.5  
7.4  
35  
17.3  
12.2  
8.6  
50  
19.5  
13.8  
9.8  
70  
20.9  
14.8  
10.5  
7.4  
105  
22.4  
15.9  
11.2  
7.9  
1/250  
1/500  
1/1000  
1/2000  
1/4000  
1/8000  
1/12000  
5.2  
6.1  
6.9  
3.7  
4.3  
4.9  
5.2  
5.6  
2.6  
3.1  
3.5  
3.7  
4.0  
1.8  
2.2  
2.4  
2.6  
2.8  
*
When the wide panel is attached.  
Frequency/Repetition  
Nickel hydride  
(2500 mAh)  
Alkaline  
Frequency (sec)  
Repetition (times)  
Approx. 0.1 - 5  
Approx. 0.1 - 3  
Approx. 100 or more  
Approx. 200 or more  
Repetition is the approximate number of times that are possible  
before a new battery is completely dead.  
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Continuous flash  
performance  
40 flashes at 5 flashes per second  
(Normal flash, light level 1/32, 105 mm, nickel-metal  
hydride battery)  
AF illuminator  
Autoflash at low contrast and low brightness  
Operating range (with a 50 mm lens attached to DSLR-  
A700)  
Central area: 0.5 m to 10 m  
Peripheral areas : 0.5 m to 3 m  
Flash control  
Dimension  
Flash control using pre-flash, TTL direct metering  
W 77 × H 147 × D 106 mm (3 1/8 × 5 7/8 × 4 1/4 inches)  
(Approx.)  
Mass (Approx.)  
440 g (15.6 oz) (excluding the batteries)  
Power requirements DC 6 V  
Recommended  
batteries  
Four AA-size alkaline batteries  
Four AA-size rechargeable nickel-metal hydride batteries  
Flash unit (1), Mini-stand (1), Case (1), Set of printed  
documentation  
Included items  
Functions in these operating instructions depend on testing conditions at our firm.  
Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.  
Trademark  
is a trademark of Sony Corporation.  
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Printed on 70% or more recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic  
Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink.  
Printed in Japan  
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