Yongnuo YN968EX-RT Flash: A Comprehensive Guide

by Admin 48 views
Yongnuo YN968EX-RT Flash: A Comprehensive Guide

Hey photography enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT flash, a popular speedlight known for its features and affordability. This guide will cover everything you need to know, from its specs and functionalities to how to use it effectively. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, there's something here for you. We'll explore its capabilities, compare it with other options, and offer tips to help you get the most out of this versatile flash unit. Ready to illuminate your photography? Let's get started!

What is the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT Flash?

The Yongnuo YN968EX-RT is a powerful, feature-packed speedlight designed to work with Canon cameras (it's also available for Nikon, although this guide focuses on the Canon version). It's a step up from the YN685, offering a built-in LED video light, making it a valuable tool for both photography and videography. The "RT" in the name signifies its compatibility with the Canon RT (Radio Transmission) system, meaning it can be used as both a master and a slave flash, offering impressive wireless control. For those who are into off-camera flash, this is a huge plus! The YN968EX-RT offers a lot of bang for your buck, providing many features typically found in more expensive flash units. It's become a go-to choice for photographers looking for a reliable, versatile, and budget-friendly flash solution. This flash unit has a guide number of 60 meters at ISO 100 and 200mm, which is pretty powerful for a speedlight, allowing you to light up your subjects even in challenging environments. The ability to control multiple flashes wirelessly is also a significant advantage, giving you more creative control over your lighting setup. Its user-friendly interface and robust build quality make it suitable for both amateurs and professionals. With features like high-speed sync (HSS) and a wide zoom range, the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT offers a great balance of performance and value.

Now, let's talk about the design and build. The YN968EX-RT is made of durable plastic, and while it might not feel as premium as some high-end flashes, it's sturdy enough to withstand regular use. The buttons and dials are well-placed and easy to navigate, and the LCD screen is clear and provides all the necessary information at a glance. The head of the flash swivels and tilts, allowing you to bounce the light off walls and ceilings for softer, more flattering light. The inclusion of the LED video light is a game-changer, providing continuous light for shooting videos or as a modeling light to preview your lighting setup before taking a photo. The flash also features a built-in diffuser and reflector, which can be useful for softening the light output and reducing harsh shadows. Overall, the design is practical and user-friendly, making it easy to set up and use even in fast-paced shooting situations. The hot shoe mount is solid and secure, ensuring the flash stays in place on your camera. This is crucial during shooting to avoid unexpected disconnections. The flash's ability to operate in both ETTL (for Canon) and manual modes gives you complete control over your lighting. This flexibility allows you to adapt to different shooting scenarios, from fast-paced events where automatic settings are helpful to studio setups where you want precise control.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's break down the key features that make the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT a compelling choice. First off, it boasts a powerful guide number of 60 (at ISO 100 and 200mm zoom), which means it can provide ample light even in challenging lighting conditions. This is a significant advantage, especially when shooting in dimly lit environments or when you need to overpower the ambient light. The built-in 2.4GHz radio system is another standout feature, enabling wireless triggering and control with a range of up to 100 meters. This is super handy if you want to use the flash off-camera. The RT system allows for seamless communication with other Yongnuo or Canon RT-compatible flashes, making it easy to create complex lighting setups. The YN968EX-RT supports high-speed sync (HSS), which is essential for using fast shutter speeds, especially when shooting in bright sunlight. HSS allows you to freeze motion and use wider apertures to achieve shallow depth of field, giving you more creative control over your images. The LED video light is a fantastic addition, providing a constant light source for videos or as a modeling light. The LED light has adjustable brightness settings, allowing you to fine-tune the light output to match your needs. The flash also offers a zoom range of 20-200mm, allowing you to adjust the light spread to match your lens's focal length. The head of the flash swivels and tilts, enabling you to bounce the light off walls and ceilings for softer, more flattering light. The flash also supports ETTL, manual, and multi (stroboscopic) flash modes, offering a wide range of creative possibilities. The recycle time is relatively fast, allowing you to capture a series of shots without significant delays. Furthermore, the flash includes a PC sync port for connecting to external triggers or studio lights, expanding its versatility. Overall, the feature set is impressive, especially considering the price point. The YN968EX-RT offers a lot of functionality that professionals and hobbyists can appreciate, from its robust radio system to the integrated LED light.

Here's a quick rundown of the main specs:

  • Guide Number: 60 (at ISO 100 and 200mm)
  • Wireless System: 2.4GHz Radio (Canon RT compatible)
  • Modes: ETTL / Manual / Multi
  • Zoom Range: 20-200mm
  • LED Video Light: Yes
  • High-Speed Sync: Yes
  • Recycle Time: Approximately 2 seconds (at full power)

Setting Up and Using Your YN968EX-RT

Getting your Yongnuo YN968EX-RT up and running is pretty straightforward. First, you'll need to attach the flash to your camera's hot shoe. Make sure the flash is securely mounted, so you don’t have to worry about it falling off during your shoot. Once it's mounted, turn on the flash and the camera. The LCD screen on the back of the flash will display various settings. The menu system is relatively intuitive, allowing you to easily adjust settings like flash mode, zoom, and power output. If you're using the flash in ETTL mode (Canon's automatic mode), the camera will automatically control the flash power based on the scene's lighting. This is great for beginners or for situations where you need to work quickly. For more creative control, you can switch to manual mode. In manual mode, you'll have complete control over the flash power, allowing you to fine-tune the lighting to your exact needs. The zoom function on the flash head lets you adjust the light spread to match the focal length of your lens. This helps to ensure that the light covers your entire scene, preventing vignetting or uneven lighting. If you plan on using the flash off-camera, you'll need a compatible radio transmitter or controller. The YN968EX-RT is compatible with the Yongnuo YN-E3-RT transmitter or the Canon ST-E3-RT. These devices allow you to wirelessly trigger and control your flash from a distance. The built-in radio receiver is another amazing feature, supporting master and slave modes. In master mode, the YN968EX-RT can act as a controller for other flashes. In slave mode, it can be triggered by another flash or a radio transmitter. When setting up your flash, you may want to experiment with different lighting techniques. Bouncing the light off walls or ceilings can create softer, more flattering light, while direct flash can produce a more dramatic effect. Always try to experiment with different techniques to get the desired look.

Here are some simple steps to get started:

  1. Mount the Flash: Attach the flash to your camera's hot shoe.
  2. Power On: Turn on both the flash and your camera.
  3. Select a Mode: Choose between ETTL or Manual mode.
  4. Adjust Settings: Set the zoom, power, and other settings as needed.
  5. Test Shots: Take a few test shots to check your lighting. Experiment with different settings until you get the desired results.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even the best gear can run into issues. Here are some common problems you might encounter with the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT and how to fix them:

  • Flash Not Firing: Make sure the flash is turned on and properly mounted to your camera's hot shoe. Check that the batteries are charged, and the flash mode is compatible with your camera's settings. Also, make sure that the flash is not in a mode that prevents it from firing, such as sleep mode. Verify that the radio trigger (if you’re using one) is correctly configured and working. It could also be that the flash is set to manual mode at a very low power setting, which might not be enough to trigger the camera's sensor. Double-check all connections, and if using a radio trigger, make sure the channel settings are correct.
  • Flash Overexposing: If your photos are too bright, try reducing the flash power or using a wider aperture. If you are shooting in ETTL, consider using flash exposure compensation (FEC) to reduce the flash output. It's also possible that the flash is bouncing off a reflective surface too close to the subject. Check the distance between your flash and your subject, and if they're too close, move them further apart or adjust the angle of the flash. Ensure that you have the correct white balance settings on your camera to avoid color casts. Consider using a diffuser to soften the light and prevent overexposure. Remember to take a few test shots and review your images to make adjustments as needed.
  • Radio Trigger Not Working: Ensure that both the flash and the radio trigger are set to the same channel. Check that the batteries in both devices are charged. Make sure there are no obstructions between the transmitter and receiver. Sometimes, the radio signal can be affected by interference from other electronic devices. Try changing the channel on both the trigger and the flash to avoid interference. Verify that the flash is set to slave mode and that the trigger is properly mounted on your camera or configured as a master unit. Also, ensure that the firmware on both devices is up-to-date, as updates can often fix compatibility issues.
  • Inconsistent Power Output: If the flash power seems inconsistent, check the batteries. Old or low-quality batteries can cause erratic performance. Make sure the flash is not overheating, as this can affect its output. You can let the flash cool down between shots. Check that the flash is set to the correct mode (ETTL or Manual) and that the settings are appropriately adjusted. If you are using HSS, it can sometimes affect the power consistency. Try shooting at a lower shutter speed to see if this helps. Make sure the flash head is securely locked in position. It is crucial to troubleshoot these common issues so you can get back to creating amazing photos.

Pros and Cons

Let's weigh the pros and cons of the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT flash.

Pros:

  • Affordable: One of the most significant advantages is its low price point. It offers excellent value for money. It is a fantastic option for photographers on a budget.
  • Versatile: It offers both speedlight and video light functions. It provides a wide range of creative options for both photography and videography. The ability to use it off-camera and in master/slave modes adds to its versatility.
  • Powerful: The high guide number ensures sufficient light output in various shooting situations. Even in challenging lighting conditions, you can still light your subject effectively.
  • Wireless Radio System: The built-in 2.4GHz radio system is reliable and provides a long range. It allows for flexible and convenient off-camera flash setups. Its compatibility with the Canon RT system means seamless integration with other compatible flashes and triggers.
  • Features: Includes features like HSS, LED video light, and a zoom range. These features expand its capabilities and make it suitable for a variety of photographic tasks. The addition of the LED light is a significant advantage for videographers or those who need a modeling light.

Cons:

  • Build Quality: While the build quality is decent, it may not feel as robust as some higher-end flashes. This is common for budget-friendly products, and it can affect durability over time.
  • Recycle Time: The recycle time can be slow at full power. This might be a limitation for fast-paced shooting situations. The speed may not match that of the top-of-the-line professional flashes.
  • Interface: The menu system, while functional, might not be as user-friendly as some more expensive flashes. It may take some time to get used to navigating the menu system and adjusting settings.
  • LED Light: The LED light is a nice addition but might not be as powerful as dedicated video lights. If video is your primary focus, you may need to supplement the flash with additional lighting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT is an excellent choice for photographers of all levels, especially those looking for a feature-rich, affordable speedlight. It offers a great balance of performance and value, making it a worthy addition to your photography kit. The built-in radio system, HSS, and LED video light make it a versatile tool for both photography and videography. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as build quality and recycle time, the benefits far outweigh the negatives, especially for the price. If you are starting your photography journey, this is the perfect flash to invest in. With a bit of practice and experimentation, you'll be able to create stunning images with this fantastic flash unit. So, go out there, experiment with different lighting setups, and have fun! Happy shooting, everyone!