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Photography Question 

Paula S. Masterson
 

Canon 420EX Speedlite


I was recently shooting a wedding, outdoors in a sunny location, when I noticed that the green Pilot lite had turned red, and now is permanently that way. I tried changing the batteries, but nothing. When I removed the old ones, they were quite hot. Strangely, the flash still fires.

Has anyone else experienced this? I am hoping that the unit didn't overheat in the sun, causing this - tho the auto shut-off should have functioned. Nothing else seems to be wrong.

Thanks!
paula masterson


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July 12, 2005

 

Christopher A. Vedros
  I don't have my flash or my manual here at work with me, but if me memory serves me, I think the pilot light has always been red. The green light is the exposure confirmation light that lights up to indicate a proper flash exposure.

I could be wrong, I've spent a lot of time in the sun, also.


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July 12, 2005

 

Paula S. Masterson
  Well, duh, me ...

You are absolutely right - and I even reread the manual. What can I say??

I was really concerned about how hot the batteries felt when I changed them out. Have you used this unit in the sun, and experienced anything like that? It just seemed NOT to be a good sign.


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July 12, 2005

 

Christopher A. Vedros
  What type of batteries are you using? I've heard that Ni-Cad batteries can get pretty hot during normal use (even when it's not hot outside) and so they are not the best choice for cameras and flashes.

I have several sets of Ni-MH batteries for my flash. They get warm when they are on the charger, but they're fine in the flash. Ni-MH batteries will also give you the best performance. I've heard of Li-Ion AA batteries, but have not yet seen them in stores.


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July 12, 2005

 

Daniel Diaz
  You are correct here Chris, the other thing to consider is alot of digital equipment is not very compatible with Ni-Cad batteries, check the manual again and see if you can find this warning. I know with my FujiS5100, it states no Ni-Cad batteries only Alkaline or Ni-MH.


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July 12, 2005

 
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