Why isnt 2nd curtain sync default

[craig.walton2]

I understand what 2nd curtain sync is and its benefits but what I don't understand is why it isn't the default setting for flashes (both on and off camera). The only negative I could find is that for 2nd curtain there is a pre-flash therefore the subjects may move away before the final image is taken (ie nightclub photography). This seems like a very minor negative in my opinion.

Also, while we're at it. Why isn't HSS/FP the default setting if the flash is capable. It seems like a no brainer to me.

I'm hoping the more experienced out there will shed some light (no pun intended) on this matter.

 

[HoppyUK]

Because for most things, normal first curtain sync is better.

As far as I'm aware, with all cameras second-curtain doesn't work at all until you're at around 1/30sec or longer (Canon 5D3 actually mentions this) and even then it's more like middle-curtain before you get longer still.

When it's working best at longer speeds, it's hard to capture fleeting expressions and gesture because by the time the flash fires they're gone. And as you say, with auto-TTL and a pre-flash, the subject either moves thinking the shot has been taken, or at least blinks. Common problem.

And then, unless the direction of movement is a) predictable and controllable, and b) important to the shot, it really makes no difference. Second-curtain sync does not overlay the flash image more prominently just because it fires last, as some folks think. If you want the flash image to stand out more, you need to position the subject over a dark area of background and that works the same with either sync method.

There's an argument for having HSS permanently on, with the camera switching in and out as necessary, but with my Canon 5D2 when HSS is enabled at 1/200sec, it will fire in that mode. Switch it off and you get normal sync, which is a bit strange. Just an operational quirk, but it's seasy enough to switch it manually.

 

[Canon Bob]

Also, while we're at it. Why isn't HSS/FP the default setting if the flash is capable. It seems like a no brainer to me.

How does the flash know what the x-sync of the body is to know whether it's HSS or not?

Bob

 

[HoppyUK]

How does the flash know what the x-sync of the body is to know whether it's HSS or not?

Bob

I think that's one of the problems with the native Canon and Nikon systems. They have to operate to the lowest common denominator to ensure everything works with all cameras, including older stuff with slower moving shutters. That would explain why my 5D2 switches to HSS at 1/200sec, to make sure it works with cameras that only have 1/160sec max x-sync.

Be interesting to see how your 1DX behaves, and when it actually enables second-curtain sync. Pocket Wizard's Mini/Flex system is very clever, and has custom profiles for different camera models. I notice they're still beta testing 1DX and 5D3, but their custom enhancements with hypersync, optimised HSS and optimised second-curtain sync are very effective, and unique to PW.

 

[Canon Bob]

The 1Dx switches over at 1/250th Richard (with a 600EX-RT on the hotshoe). Strangely, the 1DMkIV does the same although it should sync faster (1/300th).

Bob

 

[HoppyUK]

The 1Dx switches over at 1/250th Richard (with a 600EX-RT on the hotshoe). Strangely, the 1DMkIV does the same although it should sync faster (1/300th).

Bob

Thanks Bob. Just to be clear though, when HSS is enabled the camera will fire a normal flash pulse at 1/250sec, then switches itself to HSS mode at 1/320sec?

I just checked the handbook (p201) and even on the 1DX second curtain sync only operates at 1/25sec and longer speeds.