Ambitful AF970 Flash Light Speedlight Speedlite Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The Ambitful AF970 Speedlight is a high-performance, high-compatibility flash unit designed for various camera systems. It features a powerful flash output, fast recycling time, and multiple flash modes to enhance your photography.

Figure 1: Ambitful AF970 Speedlight with included accessories.

What's Included:

• Flash Body x1
• Diffuser x1
• Mini Stand x1
• Storage Bag x1

Figure 2: Package contents of the AF970 Speedlight.

2. Setup

2.1 Battery Installation

1. Open the battery compartment cover located on the side of the flash unit.
2. Insert four (4) AA batteries (Alkaline or Ni-MH are usable) according to the polarity indicators inside the compartment.
3. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

Figure 3: Location of the AA battery compartment.

2.2 Mounting to Camera

1. Ensure your camera is powered off.
2. Slide the AF970 Speedlight's universal hot shoe onto your camera's hot shoe mount.
3. Tighten the locking mechanism on the flash unit to secure it to the camera.

Figure 4: AF970 Speedlight securely mounted on a camera.

2.3 Hot Shoe Compatibility Note

The AF970 Speedlight features a universal hot shoe design, compatible with most Canon, Nikon, Fujifilm, Olympus, Panasonic, and Pentax cameras. However, please note that some Canon camera models (specifically 1500D, 3000D, and 200D Mark II) have cancelled the hot shoe in the middle of the universal contact, which may prevent the use of the single-contact universal hot shoe flash and flash guide. It is not compatible with Sony Minolta hot shoe.

Figure 5: Hot shoe contact types. Left: With Universal Contacts. Right: No Universal Contacts.

Figure 6: Examples of compatible camera hot shoe interfaces.

2.4 Wireless Setup (2.4G Wireless X System)

The AF970 has a built-in 2.4G wireless receiver. To use it wirelessly, you will need a compatible flash trigger (not included with the standard package). Ensure the flash unit and the trigger are set to the same channel and mode for proper communication.

Figure 7: Wireless setup using the built-in 2.4G Wireless X System.

Figure 8: Example of a multi-flash wireless setup.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Controls and LCD Screen

The AF970 Speedlight features an LCD screen for clear parameter display and intuitive control buttons.

Figure 9: Front view of the Speedlight with LCD screen and controls.

Figure 10: Detailed LCD screen and button functions.

3.2 Flash Modes

The AF970 offers four primary flash modes:

• M (Manual) Mode: Allows you to manually set the flash output from 1/128 to 1/1, with 8 stops and two fine-tuning compensation levels per stop.
• Multi (Repeating Flash) Mode: Used for slow shutter shooting to capture continuous movement of an object, creating a staggered and orderly impact.
• S1 Mode (Slave Mode): The flash acts as a slave, triggering simultaneously with the main flash signal from another flash unit.
• S2 Mode (Slave Mode): Similar to S1, but the slave flash ignores the pre-flash of the main flash, effectively preventing premature triggering.

Figure 11: Overview of M, S1, S2, and Multi flash modes.

Figure 12: Example of Multi Flash Mode in action.

3.3 Adjusting Flash Output

Use the directional buttons on the control panel to adjust the flash output in Manual mode or other parameters in Multi mode. The LCD screen will display the current settings.

Figure 13: LCD screen displaying various flash power settings.

3.4 Flexible Shooting Angle

The flash head can be rotated vertically from -7° to 120° and horizontally from 0° to 330°, providing extensive flexibility for bounce flash and creative lighting.

Figure 14: Flash head rotation angles for flexible lighting.

3.5 Power-Saving Mode

To conserve battery life, the flash unit will automatically enter power-saving mode:

• The backlight will turn off after 20 seconds of inactivity.
• The CPU will automatically go to sleep after 60 seconds of inactivity.
• The unit will automatically shut down after more than 30 minutes of inactivity.

3.6 Second-Curtain Sync

The AF970 supports second-curtain sync, which is useful when using a slow shutter speed to create motion blur. The flash fires at the end of the exposure, just before the second curtain closes, illuminating the subject at the end of the motion trail.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Cleaning

• Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the flash body.
• For the flash tube and LCD screen, use a lens cleaning cloth and a small amount of lens cleaning solution if necessary.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the unit.

4.2 Battery Care

• Remove batteries when the flash is not in use for extended periods to prevent leakage.
• Use high-quality AA batteries for optimal performance and longevity.

4.3 Storage

• Store the flash unit in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Use the provided storage bag to protect the unit from dust and scratches.

5. Troubleshooting

5.1 Flash Not Firing

• Check if the batteries are correctly inserted and have sufficient charge.
• Ensure the flash unit is securely mounted on the camera's hot shoe.
• Verify that the flash is powered on and not in power-saving mode.
• If using wireless mode, confirm the flash and trigger are on the same channel and mode.

5.2 Incorrect Exposure

• Adjust the flash output level (e.g., in Manual mode).
• Check camera settings related to flash exposure compensation.
• Ensure the diffuser is correctly attached if being used.

5.3 Overheat Protection

The AF970 has built-in temperature detection. If the unit becomes too hot due to rapid, continuous firing, it may temporarily cease operation to prevent damage. Allow the flash to cool down before resuming use.

6. Specifications

Figure 15: Detailed specifications table.

Figure 16: Key parameters of the AF970 Speedlight.

7. User Tips

• Utilize the Wide Angle Diffuser: Pull out the built-in diffuser plate to spread the light and achieve a wider range of fill light, especially useful for close-up shots or when using wider lenses.
• External Power for Extended Use: Connect an external power pack to the external charging port to improve flash performance, shorten recycle times, and extend battery life during long shooting sessions.
• Master Multi Flash Mode: Experiment with Multi Flash Mode for creative effects, such as capturing multiple stages of movement in a single frame.
• Bounce Flash for Softer Light: Use the flexible rotating head to bounce the flash off ceilings or walls for softer, more natural-looking illumination, avoiding harsh direct flash.
• Wireless Freedom: Leverage the 2.4G Wireless X System with a compatible trigger for off-camera flash setups, allowing for more dynamic lighting control and creative possibilities.
• Lightweight Design: At approximately 410g, the AF970 is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry for on-the-go photography.

Figure 17: Using the wide-angle diffuser.

Figure 18: External charging port for enhanced performance.

Figure 19: The AF970 Speedlight is lightweight and portable.

8. Product Demonstration Video

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the seller's policies or contact the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.