Is my flash compatible ??

[lhosphotography]

Hi all,

Just purchased a vivitar 636AF TTL dedicated flash from a second hand store the label stated it was compatible with canon eos film and digital cameras.

Can anybody confirm that it is compatible with my canon eos 450d?

hope you can help........

[Marko]

I do not know the answer but if it's an ancient flash, be careful. I'd call Canon to find out. Old flashes have been known to cause voltage issues in new digital cameras. Sometimes, not always.

That said, the flash can always be used off camera with a slave or trigger. Off camera flash is one of the keys to getting your photography to the next level.

Personally, I would not use an old flash as my main on camera flash. Great canon flashes (480ex 580 ex) are available cheap/used and allow you to do several things that this flash won't let you do.

[Matt K.]

justin evans , Sep 20, 2004; 08:39 a.m.

I've been using a Vivitar 636AF with my EOS 600 and EOS 5 for years without any problems. And found it to be a very capable and reliable flashgun. Regards, Justin.

Found this while googling the flash.

[Marko]

and there we go - Nice find Matt.K
I'd still be careful...but that find is reassuring.

[JAS_Photo]

The only thing is - that reference is 6 years old and I think refers to film cameras but I could be wrong. I would do as Marko suggested earlier and only use them off camera.

[Marko]

YIKES - that's true it's a film camera.

Nice catch Jas!

Ok I'm back to my original gut feeling. I would not use this as MY camera's main on camera flash, it's just not worth the risk.

For 250-350 I'd get something used that has high speed shutter sync, a head that rotates well etc.

[Mad Aussie]

Unless the flash is specifically ETTL (not just TTL) I wouldn't put it anywhere near the hotshoe on my Canon digital. Having said that you are more likely to blow the flash than you are the camera I believe. But more research is definitely needed.

[Mad Aussie]

There seems to be several references in forums of people using this flash on Canon's from the 20D up to and including the 1D without any issue.

[lhosphotography]

Yes, Thankyou all for your input and advice...I have decided not to use it, I would hate to damage my camera! Its not worth it ! I will save for a 580ex...think they are around £100 ?
I did put the flash on my camera and it seemed to function ok....but I thought that prehaps I should read the camera manual, My camera has a setting in the menu for external flash e.t.c I did this and the camera didnt even recognise the flash or sincronise it, that was it for me !

So I shall put it on ebay and put the money it makes towards the correct flash.(If it makes any lol)

[Marko]

I can vouch for the 580 ex - AWESOME Canon flash.