Picture Problems w/580EX - Wondering If It's Set Up Or Settings

[Fuzzy 0]

Just set up the 580EX with my 20D (& Sigma 15mm if that makes a difference)

Haven't jumped with this set up yet but it seems most of the test pictures are coming out with the bottom 1/4 or so of the shot very dark - almost as if the flash is being shadowed. These shots are usually taken of something around 6 feet away. Pictures without the flash are fine.

The flash has been mounted flat/horizontal, on top of the FTP, raised up about 2", lined up with the front edge of the helmet.

Various combinations of camera & flash settings have been tried (to the point where unfortunately I don't even remember them all), but have tried in TV / AV / Manual - Flash in Full Auto (ETTL) - Multi & Manual.

Is this just a matter of trying for shots that are too close for the flash? Or is there something even more basic that's being missed?

The mount is still in the "mock-up stage" so any and all suggestions greatly appreciated.


Fuzzy

Fuzzy
Ambition / Ability: Know the difference.

[Zee 0]

I think you answered your own question - the flash is mounted too far back and too far down preventing the flash from reaching the bottom of your subject - try moving the flash around and taking a few test shots.

Peace,
Z

Action©Sports

[vdschoor 0]

I have mine setup like in the pic attached, and I have not run into this problem yet..

Granted mine is a 550EX with the 20D and the sigma 15mm, but that shouldn't make a difference I think

Iwan

[Fuzzy 0]

Thanks

Played around and changed the angle it was sitting at as well (not quite straight ahead but just slightly downward) which seemed to make a big difference. Didn't take much of an angle adjustment to make a big difference.

I gotta admit that half the fun is in the learning.

Thanks again

Fuzzy
Ambition / Ability: Know the difference.