Yongnuo YN968EX-RT Flash: Your Ultimate Guide
Hey there, photography enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT flash, a popular speedlight that's a favorite among both amateur and professional photographers. If you're looking to understand this flash better, from its features to its performance, and how it stacks up against the competition, you're in the right place. We'll explore everything you need to know to make the most of this versatile piece of kit. Ready to illuminate your photography? Let's get started!
Unveiling the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT: A Comprehensive Overview
Alright, let's start with the basics. The Yongnuo YN968EX-RT is a powerful, feature-packed speedlight designed to enhance your photography. What makes this flash so special, you ask? Well, it's packed with features, offers robust performance, and won't break the bank. It's a fantastic option for photographers who want to step up their lighting game without investing a fortune. This flash is compatible with Canon's E-TTL / E-TTL II system and supports various shooting modes, including E-TTL, Manual, and Multi (stroboscopic) flash. This versatility allows you to adapt to any shooting situation, whether you're capturing fast-moving action, portraits, or creative light painting. Key features include a high guide number, which indicates its power, and a zoom head that adjusts the flash coverage to match your lens's focal length. The YN968EX-RT also boasts a built-in 2.4GHz radio system that lets you trigger the flash wirelessly, making off-camera flash setups a breeze. This is a game-changer for those looking to create more dynamic and creative images. Think about the possibilities: you can place your flash units anywhere, shaping the light precisely how you want it, without the limitations of cables or line-of-sight requirements. Furthermore, this flash features a LED video light, adding another layer of functionality, especially useful for videographers or those needing continuous lighting. The inclusion of this LED light is a bonus, allowing you to use the flash for various lighting needs beyond traditional flash photography. It's a great all-in-one solution for photographers who work in mixed media or want to experiment with video. One of the main benefits is the high guide number, which means the flash has a lot of power. This is super helpful when you need to overpower the sun or light a large space. The zoom head is also a plus, as it adjusts the light coverage to match your lens. This feature ensures that the light is efficiently directed where you need it, avoiding wasted light and potentially harsh shadows. The built-in radio trigger is another standout feature, enabling wireless control and communication with other flashes. This makes complex lighting setups simpler and more efficient, expanding creative possibilities. Think about shooting a wedding with multiple flashes positioned around the reception hall, all perfectly synced and controlled from your camera. That is the kind of control you get. The LED video light is a versatile addition, allowing the flash to function as a continuous light source. This is great for video recording or for providing fill light in situations where you need a constant source of illumination. Overall, the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT is a highly versatile and feature-rich speedlight, perfect for both beginners and experienced photographers.
Key Features and Specifications of the YN968EX-RT
Now, let's break down the nitty-gritty and take a closer look at the key features and specifications of the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT flash. Knowing these details will help you understand its capabilities and how it fits into your photography workflow. Firstly, let's talk about the Guide Number (GN). This is a crucial specification, representing the flash's power. The YN968EX-RT boasts a GN of 60 meters at ISO 100 and 200mm zoom. This high guide number means it's a powerful flash, capable of providing strong light output even at a distance or in challenging lighting conditions. Next up is the Zoom Range. The flash head zooms from 20mm to 200mm, allowing you to adjust the light coverage to match your lens's focal length. This ensures that the light is used effectively and efficiently, providing the best possible illumination. The Flash Modes are another essential aspect. The YN968EX-RT supports E-TTL / E-TTL II, Manual, and Multi (stroboscopic) flash modes. E-TTL (Evaluative Through-The-Lens) is Canon's automatic flash metering system, allowing the flash to automatically adjust power based on the scene. Manual mode gives you complete control over the flash power, from 1/1 to 1/128 in 1/3 stop increments. Multi mode lets you create stroboscopic effects, capturing multiple flashes in a single shot. The Radio System is where things get interesting. The built-in 2.4GHz radio system allows for wireless triggering and control. This means you can use the flash off-camera and trigger it remotely, allowing for creative lighting setups. The radio system supports a range of up to 100 meters, providing flexibility in positioning the flash. The flash also features a High-Speed Sync (HSS) function, enabling you to sync the flash with your camera at shutter speeds faster than the typical flash sync speed (usually around 1/200 or 1/250 second). This is a vital feature when shooting in bright sunlight, allowing you to use a wider aperture to blur the background while still properly exposing the subject. In addition to these primary features, the YN968EX-RT also includes an LED video light, which can be very useful for video recording or providing fill light for photos. The LED light has adjustable brightness settings, and it can be a lifesaver in low-light situations.
Setting Up and Using Your YN968EX-RT Flash
Alright, let's get you up and running with your Yongnuo YN968EX-RT flash! Setting up and using this flash is pretty straightforward, but a few key steps will ensure you get the best results. First things first, you'll need to attach the flash to your camera's hot shoe. Slide the flash foot into the hot shoe and secure it. Make sure it's firmly attached to prevent any accidental disconnections. Next, power up the flash. Typically, the YN968EX-RT runs on AA batteries. Insert the batteries into the compartment and turn on the flash. You will find an on/off switch on the flash body. Once the flash is powered on, you'll need to set up the flash mode. If you're using E-TTL mode, the flash will automatically adjust the power based on the scene. If you're using Manual mode, you'll need to set the flash power manually. Use the control buttons and the LCD screen on the back of the flash to make your selections. For those using the flash wirelessly, you'll need to configure the radio system. This involves setting the flash as a receiver and the camera as the transmitter. Follow the instructions in the flash's manual to set the channel and group settings, ensuring they match on both the flash and your camera. Once everything is set up, it's time to start shooting! Experiment with different flash settings, and modes to understand how they affect your images. Remember, practice makes perfect. Try using the flash off-camera, using a light stand, and a wireless trigger. Play with different angles and distances to shape the light and create the look you desire. When using the flash, keep a few things in mind. Consider the ambient light. The flash is a tool to supplement the ambient light, so take note of the existing lighting conditions. Use flash power settings wisely. Too much power and you may overexpose your images, while too little will result in underexposed images. Experiment with the zoom head. Adjust the zoom head to match your lens's focal length for optimal coverage. And don't be afraid to experiment with different accessories, like softboxes, umbrellas, or diffusers, to soften the light and create more flattering results. Remember, the key is to experiment and learn from your shots. With a little practice, you'll be able to master the YN968EX-RT and take your photography to the next level.
Pros and Cons of the YN968EX-RT
Like any piece of photography gear, the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT flash has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these will help you decide if it's the right flash for you. Let's start with the Pros. First off, the value for money is exceptional. The YN968EX-RT offers a lot of features and performance for its price, making it a great option for budget-conscious photographers. The built-in radio trigger is another significant advantage. It simplifies off-camera flash setups and provides a reliable wireless connection, enabling greater creative flexibility. The flash's compatibility with Canon's E-TTL / E-TTL II system ensures seamless integration with Canon cameras, offering automatic flash exposure. Furthermore, the high guide number means the flash has enough power for most shooting situations, even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. The LED video light adds versatility, making it suitable for both photography and videography. The user-friendly interface is also a plus, with an easy-to-read LCD screen and intuitive controls. On to the Cons. Some users have reported that the build quality is not quite as robust as that of higher-end flashes from brands like Canon or Nikon. This isn't to say it's fragile, but it may not withstand heavy professional use as well. Another potential drawback is the battery life. Like many speedlights, the YN968EX-RT uses AA batteries. Battery life can vary depending on usage and settings. While you can use rechargeable batteries to mitigate this, it's something to consider. While the flash is highly capable, the E-TTL performance might not always be perfect. In some cases, you might need to make small adjustments to the flash exposure compensation to achieve the desired results. The user manual can be a bit sparse, which might require some time to learn all the features and functions. Finally, it's worth noting that the YN968EX-RT is specifically designed for Canon cameras. While it can be used with other cameras using a manual mode, the E-TTL functionality is exclusive to Canon systems.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even the best gear can sometimes run into problems. If you're experiencing issues with your Yongnuo YN968EX-RT, don't fret! Let's troubleshoot some common problems. First up, if your flash isn't firing, double-check the basics. Make sure the flash is turned on, the batteries are charged, and the flash is properly mounted on your camera's hot shoe. Also, ensure the flash is set to the correct mode, such as E-TTL or Manual, and that the flash power is set appropriately. If you're using the flash wirelessly, check the radio settings. Verify that the channel and group settings match on both the flash and your camera's transmitter. Also, ensure the wireless range isn't exceeded, and there are no obstructions between the flash and the receiver. Another common issue is inconsistent flash exposure. This could be caused by a number of things. Make sure your subject isn't too close to the flash, as this can cause overexposure. Adjust the flash power, flash exposure compensation, and camera settings (like aperture and ISO) to get the right exposure. If your flash is not zooming correctly, check that the zoom head is properly set and isn't stuck. Try cycling through the zoom settings to see if it responds. Ensure the zoom range matches your lens's focal length. If your images are consistently underexposed or overexposed, try recalibrating the flash. Some flashes allow for custom flash functions to fine-tune the exposure. Consult your manual to learn how to do this. Remember, troubleshooting can often involve a bit of trial and error. Read the manual and experiment with different settings to figure out the root of the problem. If you are having technical difficulties, don't hesitate to reach out to Yongnuo support for further assistance or to consult online forums and communities, where you might find solutions or advice from other users.
Accessories to Enhance Your YN968EX-RT
To get the most out of your Yongnuo YN968EX-RT flash, consider adding some accessories. These can greatly expand its functionality and versatility. Let's start with light modifiers. Softboxes, umbrellas, and diffusers are great tools for softening the light and creating more flattering portraits. A softbox attaches to the flash and diffuses the light, producing a softer and more even illumination. Umbrellas bounce the light, creating a broader, more diffused light source. Diffusers soften the light, reducing harsh shadows. These are all excellent options for creating professional-looking images. Next, consider a gel kit. Gels, or color filters, can be attached to the flash head to change the color of the light. This can be used to add creative effects, match the ambient light color, or correct color casts. Gel kits typically come with a variety of color filters that allow you to experiment with different lighting effects. A wireless trigger is essential if you plan to use the flash off-camera. While the YN968EX-RT has a built-in radio trigger, you can enhance your setup with additional triggers for a more complex multi-flash setup. A good trigger will provide reliable wireless control over your flashes, even at a distance. Don't underestimate the usefulness of a light stand. Light stands provide a stable support for your flash, allowing you to position it wherever you want, independent of your camera. Light stands come in various heights and sizes, so choose one that suits your needs. Consider a battery pack. If you use your flash frequently, an external battery pack can significantly extend the flash's battery life and reduce recycling times. These packs can provide a more consistent and reliable power source, especially in fast-paced shooting environments. Finally, think about a reflector. Reflectors can be used to bounce light onto your subject, creating fill light and reducing shadows. They are a simple and effective tool for enhancing your images. With the right accessories, you can transform your YN968EX-RT into a powerful lighting system.
Final Thoughts: Is the YN968EX-RT Right for You?
So, is the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT flash the right speedlight for you? Hopefully, this comprehensive guide has given you a solid understanding of its features, performance, and capabilities. For its price, the YN968EX-RT offers a compelling package, making it an excellent choice for photographers looking to step up their lighting game. It's a particularly good option for: photographers on a budget. The price point is extremely competitive, providing a lot of bang for your buck. Those who need wireless functionality. The built-in radio trigger simplifies off-camera setups. Canon users who want E-TTL compatibility. The flash is designed for Canon cameras and integrates seamlessly. Those who like versatile lighting. The LED video light makes it a great all-in-one solution for both photo and video. However, it's worth considering the following. If you're a professional photographer who requires the absolute best build quality, you may want to consider higher-end flashes. If you need very precise and consistent E-TTL performance, you might prefer a flash from a top-tier brand. If you prioritize user-friendliness, the YN968EX-RT has a learning curve. If these factors are not dealbreakers, the YN968EX-RT is an excellent investment. The flash is a solid performer, and its feature set is impressive, especially at its price point. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn about flash photography or a seasoned photographer looking for a backup flash, the YN968EX-RT is well worth considering. Happy shooting! I hope this helps you get the most out of your YN968EX-RT and take your photography to new heights!