Using canon 580EX II with STE-2 in manual mode

[Alberto]

Hi

I like to know if I have to use a light meter to get exposure for the flash in manual mode and camera in manual mode or do I have set the camera in aperture priority. I really like to know how to set the exposure without using a light meter. Also can this technique can be use with a non ettl radio slave.

Thanks

Alberto

[davemphoto]

Your camera has a light meter no matter what mode you're in. If you're using Aperture, Shutter, Program, etc., the camera will make adjustments to get the proper exposure. In manual mode you've got to set everything and use the light meter to get the proper exposure. If you look through the viewfinder, you'll see a scale (tick marks) at the bottom, adjust your shutter or aperture until you're at the center of that scale, that will give you proper exposure. If it's to the right, I'll underexpose, to the left, over expose.

You should probably read and reference the manual to get a better understanding, but you should have to purchase a separate light meter.

[deekyevans]

Dear Alberto
Davemphoto is right as regards taking a reading or getting that down and dirty sense of the 'correct' exposure.
The quotes are only for that creative wonderland where the under exposed or overexposed can be the right image to paint with light what you want.
However I am intrigued your post does not make mention of the ST-e2
If you are using the ST-e2 you will be in ttl mode and your creative control will be channelled along canon's ttl superhighway and any manual control would be around your camera settings; exposure comp and a non ttl or non Canon flash on manual. I would be unsure how far the ttl will compensate for the later and negate it's effects. I have only used Canon flashes
If you are using digital does it not become moot - you could work out your settings by experimentation and checking the results if the situation allows ;0)