How can I compose and manually focus macro shots before the flash fires?
Asked 8/15/2021
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I’m using a Fuji X-T20 with a fully manual 7artisans 60mm for macro photography. When I need flash, the live view can become so dark that it’s hard to see, frame, and focus the subject before taking the shot. Raising ISO temporarily helps me see, but then I have to change settings again and often lose focus. What’s the best way to compose and focus macro subjects when shooting with flash? Is there a camera setting on the X-T20 that disables the dark exposure preview, or is continuous light/tripod work the better approach?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
4y ago
2 Answers
4
Page 73 in the manual:
To preview exposure in the LCD monitor, select an option other than OFF for D SCREEN SETTING > PREVIEW EXP./ WB IN MANUAL MODE. Select OFF when using the flash or on other occasions on which exposure may change when the picture is taken.
So set this option to OFF. If changing ISO will affect the image significantly, you have enough light available to get a sensible framing display even if it is not representative of the exposure when the flash fails. So what?
Originally by user98068. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user98068
4y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes. On the X-T20, turn exposure preview off when using flash: set Screen Setting > Preview Exp./WB in Manual Mode to OFF. That lets the EVF/LCD stay bright enough for composing and focusing instead of simulating the underexposed ambient-only scene.
For macro, a few practical tricks help a lot:
- Use a tripod or stable support so framing and manual focus don’t shift.
- Add a continuous light (flashlight/torch, work light, room light) just for composing and focusing; the flash will usually overpower it in the final image.
- With a manual lens, it can be easier to focus at the widest aperture first, then stop down for more depth of field before shooting.
- A remote release can reduce camera movement.
So you’re not approaching it totally wrong—the key is to stop relying on exposure preview for flash work, and use either the camera setting above or a temporary continuous light source to see the subject clearly.
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