Pop-Up Flash in Creative Modes

[cptslackbladder]

Hello,

Can anyone help me please, I could use some advise on using the pop-up flash on my Nikon D5100? I intend to buy a hot shoe flash as soon as I can but until then I am stuck with the pop-one.

When using the pop-flash in M, S or A modes the camera exposes for the ambient light conditions and doesn't seem to expose for the flash output. Am I doing something wrong?

Many thanks,

Mark

[beatnik69]

You need to set the flash mode. You may have the mode set to slow sync. Check page 38 &39 in the manual http://www.nikonusa.com/pdf/manuals/dslr/D5100_EN.pdf

[greenwing]

Given that you state M & S modes, I don't think it's slow sync that's the problem - you choose the shutter speed in those modes, and if you want a slow shutter, you set it and that's what you get. You can't set Slow sync (though you can set rear sync) in M or S. Also, I'd observe that in Manual, you choose the exposure settings, not the camera, unless you have Auto ISO enabled.

Probably what you're seeing is that the built-in speedlight is used in TTL-BL mode when using Matrix or CW metering. That makes it work in a sort-of Fill Flash mode. With spot metering, the flash works in straight TTL mode and will try to illuminate the subject on its own.

Chris