Metz MZ 36342 36AF-4 Digital Flash User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your Metz MZ 36342 36AF-4 Digital Flash. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the flash unit to ensure proper operation and to prevent damage to the unit or your camera. Keep this manual for future reference.

Image: The Metz MZ 36342 36AF-4 Digital Flash unit, shown from the front with its reflector head tilted upwards.

Safety Information

• Do not expose the flash unit to water or high humidity.
• Avoid direct exposure of the flash light to eyes, especially at close range, as it can cause temporary vision impairment.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the flash unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
• Use only the specified battery types (AA Alkaline, NiCad, NiMH).
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use the flash in the presence of flammable gases or liquids.

Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

• Metz MZ 36342 36AF-4 Digital Flash unit
• 4 AA batteries (Alkaline)
• Instruction Manual (this document)

Product Overview

The Metz 36AF-4 digital flash is designed for Olympus and Panasonic digital cameras, offering enhanced lighting capabilities. Key features include:

• Vertically Tilting Reflector: The flash head can be tilted up to +90° for bounce flash photography.
• Manual Zoom Reflector: Adjustable for focal lengths from 28mm to 85mm to optimize light coverage.
• LED Displays: Indicators for flash readiness and exposure control.
• Integrated Autofocus Measurement Flash: Assists the camera's autofocus system in low light.
• TTL Flash Mode: Supports through-the-lens metering for automatic exposure control.

Setup

1. Battery Installation

1. Locate the battery compartment cover on the side or back of the flash unit.
2. Slide or open the cover according to the arrows indicated.
3. Insert four (4) AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+ and -) as marked inside the compartment.
4. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

Note: An image here would show the battery compartment being opened and batteries inserted with correct polarity.

2. Mounting the Flash to the Camera

1. Ensure both the camera and the flash unit are powered off.
2. Slide the flash unit's mounting foot into the camera's hot shoe.
3. Secure the flash unit by tightening the locking wheel or lever on the flash's mounting foot. Do not overtighten.

Note: An image here would illustrate the flash being slid onto a camera's hot shoe and secured.

Operating Instructions

Powering On/Off

Press and hold the power button (usually marked with an 'On/Off' symbol) until the LED display illuminates or turns off.

Basic Flash Modes

The 36AF-4 digital flash supports TTL (Through-The-Lens) flash mode for automatic exposure control. Consult your camera's manual for specific settings related to external flash units.

• TTL Mode: The flash output is automatically adjusted by the camera's metering system. This is the recommended mode for general use.
• Manual Flash Exposure Correction: If supported by your camera, you can adjust the flash output compensation in TTL mode via your camera's menu.
• Automatic Fill-in Flash: The flash can automatically provide fill-in light in bright conditions to reduce harsh shadows.

Bounce Flash (Vertically Tilting Reflector)

The flash head can be tilted upwards to direct light off a ceiling or wall, creating softer, more natural-looking illumination.

1. Gently grasp the flash head.
2. Tilt the flash head upwards to the desired angle (up to +90°).
3. Ensure the head clicks into place at common angles.

Note: An image here would show the flash head being tilted upwards.

Zoom Reflector Adjustment

The manual zoom reflector allows you to match the flash's illumination angle to your lens's focal length, from 28mm to 85mm. This helps to concentrate light more effectively or spread it wider as needed.

1. Locate the zoom adjustment mechanism on the flash head.
2. Manually slide or rotate the mechanism to select the desired focal length setting (e.g., 28mm, 35mm, 50mm, 85mm).

Note: An image here would show the zoom reflector being adjusted.

Indicators

• Flash Readiness Indicator: An LED on the flash unit will illuminate when the flash is fully charged and ready to fire.
• Exposure Control Indicators: LEDs or symbols may indicate correct exposure or warnings for under/overexposure after a flash fires.

Synchronization

The flash supports 1st and 2nd shutter curtain synchronization. These settings are typically controlled via your camera's menu system.

• 1st Shutter Curtain Sync: The flash fires at the beginning of the exposure.
• 2nd Shutter Curtain Sync: The flash fires at the end of the exposure, useful for creating motion blur effects with the subject appearing at the end of the trail.

Maintenance

Cleaning

To clean the flash unit, use a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, slightly dampen the cloth with water. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Keep the flash tube and sensor window clean for optimal performance.

Battery Care

• Remove batteries if the flash unit will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.
• Dispose of used batteries according to local regulations.

Storage

Store the flash unit in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Troubleshooting

• Flash does not fire:
  • Check if the flash is securely mounted to the camera's hot shoe.
  • Ensure batteries are correctly inserted and have sufficient charge.
  • Verify the flash and camera are powered on.
  • Check camera settings to ensure external flash is enabled.
• Flash readiness indicator does not light up:
  • Batteries may be depleted or incorrectly inserted.
  • Allow sufficient time for the flash to recycle after a previous shot.
• Images are too dark or too bright:
  • In TTL mode, check if flash exposure compensation is set on the camera.
  • Ensure the zoom reflector setting matches your lens's focal length.
  • Verify camera's ISO and aperture settings are appropriate for flash photography.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Metz products are manufactured with high quality standards. For information regarding warranty coverage, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Metz website. For technical support or service inquiries, please contact your local Metz distributor or authorized service center.