Using an Optional Flash

Using the Flash

You can use E-TTL II compatible Canon Speedlite flashes designed for use with Canon SLR cameras, including the 420EX/430EX/430EX II/550EX/580EX/580EX II models, to record natural still images under low light conditions. Refer also to the instruction manual of the Speedlite flash.

Connecting a Speedlite Flash

When connecting a Canon Speedlite flash you cannot use the Off-Camera Shoe Cord designed for Canon EOS SLR cameras. Always turn off the camcorder when connecting or detaching the flash.

1. Insert the mounting foot of the flash straight, fully into the advanced accessory shoe at the top of the handle.

2. Tighten the locking ring (Slide the lock lever on the mounting foot to the right until it clicks in place (430EX II/580EX II only)).
   - As you turn the locking ring, the locking pin will come out and lock the flash in position.

To detach the flash:

Turn the locking ring or lock lever (while pressing the release button) all the way to the opposite direction. Verify that the locking pin was released and only then detach the flash from the advanced accessory shoe.

Using the Flash

1. Set the <POWER> dial to a recording mode other than M and turn on the flash.
   - While the Speedlite flash is charging, the indicator will flash in white. Once charged, the indicator will stay on in green.
   - If the indicator keeps flashing in white for a long time, replace the flash's batteries.

2. Press the <PHOTO> button to record a still image.

Wait until the flash is charged before recording the still image. You can record a still image while the flash is charging, but the flash will not go off. Turn off the Speedlite flash when you are not using it. The flash will not go off during exposure lock. While using the flash, the shutter speeds that can be set in Tv mode are 1/4 - 1/500. The camcorder does not support the Bounce Flash function or the Wireless Multiple Flash System function of the Speedlite 420EX/430EX/550EX/580EX flashes. The camcorder does not support the ST-E2 Wireless Speedlite Flash Transmitter or the Wireless Sender/Receiver Control function of the Speedlite 420EX/430EX/550EX/580EX flashes. When recording under very dark conditions, as you keep the PHOTO button pressed halfway the AF assist lamp of the Speedlite flash may light on (if recording with autofocus). The Speedlite flash will not go off when the drive mode is set to Auto Exposure Bracketing.