11Compact wireless transmitter for E-TTL Wireless Autoflash System
Compatible with all EOS cameras and current PowerShot models with accessory shoes
Controls lighting ratios up to +/- 3 EV for two groups of compatible Speedlites
Supports E-TTL, E-TTL II, Manual Flash and Hi-Speed Sync
I've used this product for about a year now, and I have a complaint about how outdated this seems. I find myself using 580EX II's set to off for master flash work more than I use this. I am noticing that the only times I use this is when I need autofocus in low light conditions. It's not very cost effective for the price. The 580 EX II can do more than this can as a slave master and it's only a marginal cost more expensive. I hope that Canon updates this product, because it's useful, but appears to have become obsolete.
I've tried using this thing for a variety of different shoots, from portraits to action sports and it simply does not work well. The line of sight needed for it to work is frustrating. I love you Canon, but can we get a radio transmitter instead? For the price of this transmitter, save up a little extra and purchase two radio transmitters instead.
Although this is a necessary complement to Canon Speedlites, it has a lot of room for improvement:
- In terms of build quality, it is a little too big in size. - Connection to the hotshoe is loose, and lock is of poor design. Would prefer a locking system like the one on the 580EXII which is weather sealed. - On the good side, controls are simple and easy to visualize.
- In terms of functions, it lacks many of the options in a 580EXII when used as master. For example, shooting speedlites on manual (the 580EXII can set the individual power remotely for each of the 3 flash groups A,B,C). - Also, you can only control ratios for 2 groups (A:B). - Uses special batteries (I would prefer AAA)
- Lastly, the issue of radio vs. infrared and line-of-sight limitations. I usually need to run an extension cord from the hotshoe to the ST-E2 to point the unit so that all speedlights are fired. Another limitation is when using speedlites with softboxes (many times it is impossible to get line-of-sight).
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