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Author Topic: Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2  (Read 4294 times)

Coke

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Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2
« on: November 14, 2006, 04:52:09 am »

Hi!

I've read the very interesting article by M. Reichmann about the ST-E2:
http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/st-e2.shtml

I shoot alot low light action (concerts) with sometimes fast
moving subjects and very variable lighting. I keep having
problems with the AF and its really annoying to know I've
just missed the greatest expression on the singers face due
to a hunting AF.

The ST-E2 seems to be a solution here. As is a normal Flash
with its AF Assist beam. But a normal flash (like the 580ex)
don't emmit a focus assist beam in any mode other than
one shot. Canon CPS Knowledgebase says that one shot
provides the best performance in low light (now talking without
af assist), but I still have my hopes up that the ST-E2 would
provide af assist in ai servo mode. Can anyone of you guys
confirm or falsify that information?
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sgwrx

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Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2
« Reply #1 on: November 14, 2006, 06:53:50 pm »

from the STE2 manual: Compatible with 45 point Area AF and 28mm and longer lens focal length.  not sure what that means (area AF).  range is 10meters in the center, 5meters along the periphery (not sure what that ecompasses).

i tested it with a 10D.  i set to AI Servo and focused on my tripod from about 15ft. i kept the aim there and walked forward, i didn't hear the focus adjust and didn't see any subsequent AF light beam.  i tried AI Focus and One Shot, both were the same. it never emitted the AF beam unless the shutter button was released and redepressed half way.
« Last Edit: November 14, 2006, 06:54:51 pm by sgwrx »
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gochugogi

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Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2
« Reply #2 on: November 16, 2006, 12:04:19 am »

No Canon Speedlites provide AF assist in AI Servo. The ST-E2 does not make exception to this practice. You could mount a laser sight on your hotshoe for a high tech look and AF assist. I used to tape a penlight to my camera for AF assist prior to owning a ST-E2. However I hate AI servo in low light--useless. You should consider using one shot AF with high speed continuous advance set. Just lift your finger once in a while for a new lock and bang away.
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David Anderson

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Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2
« Reply #3 on: November 16, 2006, 02:13:51 am »

Quote
However I hate AI servo in low light--useless. You should consider using one shot AF with high speed continuous advance set. Just lift your finger once in a while for a new lock and bang away.
[a href=\"index.php?act=findpost&pid=85556\"][{POST_SNAPBACK}][/a]

I agree, if you have a fast focusing lens ( 70-200 2.8 ) and are quick with the focus lock and one shot AF you shouldn't have any trouble at a concert.

The St-E2 is a great help with external flash in low light, like shooting a portrait at dusk, well worth the money..
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Coke

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Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2
« Reply #4 on: November 16, 2006, 04:51:53 am »

Thank you for your replies and especialy the
short testing on the 10D (thats my 2nd body).
I'm using the laser pointer technique ™
when i shoot landscapes or street in low light
without ppl. But I'd rather not try it at a concert
or I might get a guitar thrown at me or sth else.  

The ST-E2 (200€) and the 430EX (250€) or 580EX
(370€ with cashback) are all in the ~same price segment.

My guess would be that the ST-E2 has the most powerfull
AF assist beam, right? If not I might as well consider buying
a flash and get the af assist as an extra.
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gochugogi

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Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2
« Reply #5 on: November 16, 2006, 09:24:43 pm »

Quote
My guess would be that the ST-E2 has the most powerfull
AF assist beam, right? If not I might as well consider buying
a flash and get the af assist as an extra.
[a href=\"index.php?act=findpost&pid=85575\"][{POST_SNAPBACK}][/a]

Nope. It's about the same as the AF assist on a standard Speedlite such as the 550EX. I find it's good for all 45 AF points out to 20 feet in total darkness, and about 30 feet for center AF point only. Realize the ST-E2 is designed for the 45-point AF array and doesn't work with the upper and lower points of the 7 and 9 point arrays.
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