1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper use and maintenance of your Olympus FL-LM3 Flash. The FL-LM3 is a compact, hot-shoe mounted flash designed to complement Olympus OM-D series cameras, particularly as a replacement or additional unit for the flash bundled with the OM-D E-M5 Mark II. It offers enhanced lighting capabilities for various photographic situations.
2. Product Overview
The Olympus FL-LM3 is a versatile external flash unit featuring a compact design and robust construction. It is specifically engineered to be dustproof and splashproof, ensuring reliable performance in diverse environmental conditions. Its key feature is a moveable head, allowing for flexible lighting angles, including bounce flash photography.
Figure 2.1: Front view of the Olympus FL-LM3 Flash, showcasing its compact design and flash head.
2.1 Key Features
- Genuine Olympus Accessory: Ensures full compatibility and optimal performance with Olympus cameras.
- Dust and Splashproof Construction: Designed to withstand challenging shooting environments, protecting against dust and water splashes.
- Moveable Head: The flash head can be tilted upwards, enabling bounce flash photography for softer, more natural lighting.
- Hot Shoe Mounted: Attaches securely to the camera's hot shoe, drawing power directly from the camera body, eliminating the need for external batteries.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and adds minimal bulk to your camera setup.
Figure 2.2: The FL-LM3 flash with its head tilted, demonstrating its bounce capability.
3. Setup
Before using the FL-LM3 flash, ensure your camera is powered off. The flash unit is designed for quick and secure attachment to compatible Olympus cameras.
3.1 Attaching the Flash Unit
- Locate the hot shoe mount on top of your Olympus camera.
- Align the base of the FL-LM3 flash with the hot shoe. Ensure the contacts on the flash align with the contacts in the hot shoe.
- Gently slide the flash unit forward into the hot shoe until it clicks securely into place. Do not force the unit.
- Once attached, the flash draws power directly from the camera.
To remove the flash, press the release button (if present on your camera's hot shoe or the flash itself) and slide the unit backward out of the hot shoe.
Figure 3.1: The FL-LM3 flash securely mounted on an Olympus OM-D camera, ready for use.
4. Operating Instructions
The FL-LM3 flash operates in conjunction with your camera's flash settings. Refer to your camera's instruction manual for detailed information on flash modes and controls.
4.1 Basic Operation
- Power On/Off: The flash powers on and off automatically with the camera.
- Flash Ready Indicator: A light on the flash unit or camera display will indicate when the flash is charged and ready to fire.
- Automatic Flash: In most automatic camera modes, the flash will fire automatically when ambient light conditions require it.
- Forced Flash: You can manually force the flash to fire regardless of lighting conditions through your camera's menu settings.
- Flash Off: The flash can be disabled via camera settings if not desired.
4.2 Bounce Flash Photography
One of the primary advantages of the FL-LM3 is its ability to perform bounce flash. This technique involves directing the flash light towards a reflective surface (like a ceiling or wall) instead of directly at the subject. This diffuses the light, creating softer shadows and a more natural appearance.
- Gently tilt the flash head upwards towards a light-colored ceiling or wall. The head is designed to click into various angled positions.
- Ensure the surface is neutral in color to avoid color casts on your subject.
- Take your photograph as usual. The camera's TTL (Through-The-Lens) metering system will adjust the flash output for proper exposure.
Experiment with different angles and distances to the bounce surface to achieve desired lighting effects.
5. Maintenance and Care
Proper care will extend the life and performance of your FL-LM3 flash unit.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior of the flash. For stubborn dirt, slightly dampen the cloth with water. Do not use alcohol, solvents, or abrasive cleaners.
- Hot Shoe Contacts: Keep the hot shoe contacts on the flash base clean and free of debris to ensure proper electrical connection with the camera.
- Storage: When not in use, store the flash in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. It is recommended to remove the flash from the camera body during extended storage.
- Dust and Splashproof: While designed to be dust and splashproof, avoid intentionally submerging the unit in water or exposing it to heavy rain. Always wipe off any moisture promptly.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your FL-LM3 flash, refer to the following common problems and solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Flash does not fire. |
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| Flash fires but image is too dark/bright. |
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| Flash ready indicator does not light up. |
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If problems persist, consult your camera's instruction manual or contact Olympus customer support.
7. Specifications
The following are the technical specifications for the Olympus FL-LM3 Flash:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 3.54 x 3.54 x 1.97 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.8 ounces |
| Model Number | FBA_FL-LM3 |
| Brand | Olympus |
| Compatible Mountings | ISO Hot Shoe |
| Camera Flash Type | External, Hot Shoe Mounted |
| Flash Sync Speed | Up to 1/250 second (camera dependent) |
| Included Components | Olympus FL-LM3 hot shoe flash |
| Special Features | Dust and Splashproof, Moveable Head for Bounce Shooting |
8. Warranty and Support
The Olympus FL-LM3 Flash is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty terms, duration, and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Olympus support website.
For technical support, service, or inquiries regarding your FL-LM3 flash, please contact Olympus customer service or visit their official support portal. You can often find support information on the Olympus Brand Store on Amazon or the main Olympus website.
