Turning on the Power Switch

1 Set the power switch to <K>. X The flash recycling starts.

2 Check that the flash is ready.

The pilot lamp will first turn green (ready for quick flash), then red (flash ready). Pressing the pilot lamp will fire a test flash.

About Quick Flash

Quick flash enables a flash to be fired before flash-ready, when the pilot lamp is still green.

Although the Guide No. will be 1/6 to 1/2 that of the full output, quick flash is effective for near subjects and when you want a shorter recycle time. Set the drive mode to single shooting. Quick flash cannot be used in the continuous shooting, FEB, manual flash, and stroboscopic flash modes.

Quick flash can also be used during continuous flash shooting. (C.Fn-06 p.27)

About Auto Power Off

To save battery power, the power will turn off automatically after a certain period (approx. 1.5 min. to 15 min.) of idle use. To turn on the Speedlite again, press the camera’s shutter button halfway. Or press the Speedlite’s test firing button.

Auto Power Off can also be disabled. (C.Fn-01 p.27)

A test flash cannot be fired while the camera’s operation timer 4or 0 is active.

The Speedlite’s settings will be retained in memory even after the power is turned off. To retain the Speedlite’s settings after you replace the batteries, turn off the power and replace the batteries within 1 minute.

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Canon 580EX II manual Turning on the Power Switch, Check that the flash is ready, About Quick Flash, About Auto Power Off

580EX II specifications

The Canon 580EX II is a powerful external flash unit designed for both amateur and professional photographers seeking to enhance their lighting capabilities. As a part of Canon's Speedlite series, the 580EX II offers a range of main features and advanced technologies that make it an essential tool for any photography setup.

One of the most notable features of the Canon 580EX II is its impressive guide number of 58 at ISO 100, which provides strong illumination for both close-up and long-distance subjects. This high guide number allows photographers to achieve effective lighting in various situations, whether shooting indoors or outdoors. The flash head can also tilt up to 90 degrees and rotate 180 degrees in either direction, allowing for versatile bounce and indirect lighting techniques that help produce soft, natural-looking shadows.

The 580EX II is equipped with Canon's E-TTL II (Evaluative Through-The-Lens) flash metering technology. This advanced metering system enables the flash to communicate with the camera to achieve optimal exposure settings automatically. The result is a more consistent and accurate portrayal of subjects in various lighting conditions, reducing the likelihood of overexposed or underexposed shots.

Another key characteristic of the 580EX II is its fast recycle time, which allows photographers to take multiple shots in quick succession without significant delays. This is especially beneficial during dynamic shooting scenarios like events or wildlife photography, where timing is crucial. The flash can operate in both manual mode for full control or in automatic mode for ease of use, catering to different shooting preferences.

The Canon 580EX II is also compatible with a variety of Canon EOS cameras, ensuring seamless integration into existing camera systems. Additionally, it supports wireless flash photography, allowing for creative off-camera flash setups when paired with compatible Canon camera bodies. Photographers can experiment with different lighting angles and configurations to enhance their creative vision.

Durability is an important factor in the design of the 580EX II, featuring a robust construction that can withstand the rigors of professional use. It also includes a dust and moisture-resistant design, providing added protection when shooting in challenging environments.

In summary, the Canon 580EX II stands out as a versatile and powerful flash unit, combining numerous features and advanced technologies that cater to the needs of photographers. Its high guide number, E-TTL II integration, fast recycle time, and durability make it a reliable choice for enhancing any photography experience. Whether used for portraits, events, or creative lighting, the 580EX II is an invaluable asset in the photographer's toolkit.