Bracketing inhibited by EXT flash

[DonSchap]

Well ... I came across something I did not quite expect, while working with the new bracketing function of version-4 A700 software. I placed the EXT flash (HVL-F56AM) on the hot shoe and went to take a bracketed series, with the intent of "fill flash." I know it sounds a bit strange, but hey ... I play.

Anyway ... I realized I was getting the same exposure with each shot and it did not appear that the it was being bracketed at all. I checked the DRIVE setting and it was correct ... but, the camera simply was NOT bracketing. I then removed the EXT flash .. and viola, bracketing as normal. Is this another feature?

Try it and see if you get the same result. My A700 has had some issues, of late, but they are not related to this. It will be going in for repair on Tuesday. I'd appreciate confirmation of this problem.

Thanks folks.

[David Kilpatrick]

Make sure you have checked the item which links ambient and flash for bracketing in the menu - otherwise, flash remains unaffected by ambient bracketing. Flash and main exposure bracketing or over-ride can be separated or joined. I suspect you have them separated.

David

[DonSchap]

David,

If you are referring to Custom Menu 3, Exp.Comp.Set -> "Ambient&Flash" and "Ambient", either setting seems to make no difference. Bracketing is still locked at the inital EV setting, in either Continuous or Single shot.

Also, "continuous" bracketing is not, with the flash on. It does not fire the three-shot sequence ... just the first.

Is there another menu setting you are referring to?

EDIT: I also found that the pop-up flash causes it to freeze, too.