REAR - Second-curtain synchronisation
Some cameras offer the facility of second-curtain
synchronisation (REAR mode) triggering the flash
unit by the end of the exposure time. Second-cur-
tain synchronisation is particularly advantageous
when using slow shutter speeds (slower than
1/30 s) or when shooting moving objects that
have their own source of light. Second-curtain
synchronisation gives a more realistic impression
of movement because the light streaks behind the
light source instead of building up in front of it, as
is the case when the flash is synchronised with the
1st shutter curtain. Depending on its operating
mode, the camera uses shutter speeds slower than
its sync speed.
The REAR function must be set on the camera (see
camera's operating instructions). No settings are
made on the flash unit nor is there any display for
this function.
On some cameras the REAR function is not
possible in certain operating modes (e.g. full
auto mode, or certain Vari or programmed
image control modes or Red-Eye-Reduction)
so that it cannot be selected. It will then be
automatically deleted (please refer to the
camera's manual).
Slow synchronisation / SLOW
Various cameras feature SLOW flash synchronisa-
tion in certain modes. This setting will give added
prominence to the background at lower ambient
light levels. This is achieved by matching the shut-
ter speed to the ambient light. Accordingly, shutter
speeds that are slower than the camera's sync
speed are automatically adjusted by the camera.
Some cameras automatically activate SLOW syn-
chronisation in connection with certain camera
programs (e.g. night shots program, etc.) (see ca-
mera's instruction manual). No settings are made
on the flash unit nor is there any display for this
mode.
Use a tripod to avoid camera shake with
slow shutter speeds!
5.6 AF measuring beam
The AF measuring beam is activated by the ca-
mera's electronics when the ambient lighting con-
ditions are insufficient for automatic focusing. De-
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