Mike,
this is a 'feature' of the Canon ETTL system, but when you know how
it works, you can get really excellent results.
1) Put the camera in P mode - this allows it to do great fill flash
in ambient light
2) Dial up ISO400 for extra flash range without adding extra noise
to images
3) Select a single AF point - the center one is easiest
4) Point the chosen AF point at the target, say someones face, and
press the * button under your thumb. (FEL - Flash Exposure Lock)
This sends out a flash pulse, and the 300D stores the amount of
light coming back from the target under the center point and uses
this to meter the flash for the final shot.
5) Focus on subject - hold trigger depressed half way to hold focus
& recompose shot as required
6) Squeeze shutter release, firing flash.
You'll get perfectly exposed flash for the target you chose to test
with the * (FEL) button.
This avoids the usual face overexpoed due to person wearing dark
suit, or face underexposed due to bride wearing white etc etc.
Just make sure that you point the focus/metering zone at the item
you want to expose for when you hit the * button.
Sounds more complecated than it is, and the layout of the camera
makes it 2nd nature in no time.
Chris.
--
http://www.1D-images.com
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