1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your YONGNUO YN568EX III Flash Speedlite. The YN568EX III is a high-performance flash unit designed for Nikon DSLR cameras, offering advanced features such as TTL, Manual, Multi (stroboscopic) flash modes, High-Speed Sync (HSS) up to 1/8000s, and various wireless slave functions. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure optimal performance and prevent damage.
2. Safety Precautions
- Do not point the flash directly at human or animal eyes from a close distance. This may cause temporary or permanent vision impairment.
- Keep the flash unit dry. Do not expose it to rain, moisture, or high humidity.
- Use only specified AA batteries. Do not mix old and new batteries, or different types of batteries.
- Do not disassemble or attempt to repair the flash unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Keep out of reach of children.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your product package:
- 1 x YONGNUO YN568EX III Flash Speedlite
- 1 x Mini Stand
- 1 x Protective Bag
- 1 x Instruction Manual (English and Chinese)
4. Part Names and Functions
Familiarize yourself with the various parts of the YN568EX III Flash Speedlite:
This image illustrates the key components of the YN568EX III, including the reflector board and diffuser, battery compartment, USB interface and PC input port, and hot shoe contact.
- Flash Head: Rotates and tilts for bounce flash.
- LCD Display: Shows current settings and mode.
- Control Panel: Buttons for mode selection, group/channel, zoom, pilot light, and power.
- Hot Shoe Contact: Connects the flash to the camera.
- Battery Compartment: Holds four AA batteries.
- USB Interface & PC Input Port: For firmware updates and wired PC sync connection.
- Reflector Board & Diffuser: Built-in for light modification.
5. Setup
5.1 Battery Installation
- Open the battery compartment cover on the back of the flash unit.
- Insert four (4) AA-size batteries according to the polarity indicators (+/-) inside the compartment.
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
5.2 Mounting on Camera
- Ensure the flash unit and camera are both powered off.
- Loosen the locking ring on the flash unit's hot shoe.
- Slide the flash unit completely into the camera's hot shoe.
- Tighten the locking ring to secure the flash unit in place.
6. Operating Modes
6.1 TTL (Through-The-Lens) Mode
In TTL mode, the flash output is automatically controlled by the camera's metering system to achieve optimal exposure. This is the most convenient mode for general photography.
The flash unit's LCD display showing 'i-TTL' mode, indicating automatic flash exposure control.
6.2 Manual (M) Mode
Manual mode allows you to set the flash output power manually from 1/1 (full power) to 1/128 power, with 22 levels of fine tuning. This provides precise control over lighting for consistent results.
This image demonstrates the various flash output levels available in Manual mode, from 1/128 to 1/1 power.
6.3 Multi (Stroboscopic) Mode
In Multi mode, the flash fires multiple times during a single exposure, creating a stroboscopic effect. You can set the number of flashes and the flash frequency.
6.4 High-Speed Sync (HSS)
The YN568EX III supports High-Speed Sync (HSS), allowing you to use flash at shutter speeds up to 1/8000s. This is useful for freezing fast motion or using wide apertures in bright conditions.
This image illustrates the capability of High-Speed Sync (HSS) to freeze fast-moving subjects, such as water droplets, at shutter speeds up to 1/8000s.
6.5 Wireless Slave Mode
The YN568EX III can function as a wireless slave unit, triggered by other flash units or camera's built-in flash. It supports optical transmission wireless slave modes (S1/S2) and is compatible with Nikon's optical master units (e.g., SB-910, SB-900, SB-800, SB-700, Nikon internal flash). It can also act as a master unit to trigger other YONGNUO and C EX series speedlites (excluding YN585EX) across 4 channels.
This diagram illustrates the wireless slave flash setup, showing the YN568EX III being triggered by other flashes or cameras, and indicates optical transmission triggering distances for indoor and outdoor environments.
7. Advanced Functions
7.1 Zoom Function
The flash head's zoom position can be set automatically or manually to match the lens focal length. The supported zoom range is 24mm, 28mm, 35mm, 50mm, 70mm, 80mm, and 105mm.
7.2 Recycling Time
The YN568EX III features a high-speed recycling system. At full power, the recycling time is approximately 2 seconds, allowing for rapid consecutive shots.
This image visually represents the fast recycling time of the flash, showing a sequence of a dog jumping to catch multiple tennis balls, indicating quick flash readiness for continuous action.
7.3 Custom Functions (Fn)
The flash unit includes various custom functions that can be configured to personalize its operation. Refer to the detailed custom function section in the printed manual for specific settings and adjustments.
8. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the flash unit. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by a dry cloth. Do not use organic solvents.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, remove the batteries to prevent leakage. Store the flash in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Protection: Always use the provided protective bag to prevent scratches and minor impacts.
9. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your YN568EX III, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Flash does not fire. | Batteries are dead or incorrectly inserted. Flash is not securely mounted. Camera or flash is off. | Replace batteries, check polarity. Re-mount flash. Power on both devices. |
| Incorrect exposure (too dark/bright). | Incorrect flash mode or power setting. ISO/aperture mismatch. | Adjust flash compensation. Switch to TTL mode. Check camera settings. |
| Flash does not recycle quickly. | Batteries are low. | Replace with fresh, high-quality AA batteries. |
| Wireless slave function not working. | Incorrect channel/group settings. Obstruction between master and slave. | Verify channel/group settings. Ensure clear line of sight. |
10. Specifications
Technical specifications for the YONGNUO YN568EX III Flash Speedlite:
- Guide Number: GN58 (ISO100, 105mm)
- Flash Mode: TTL, M, Multi
- Sync Mode: Front-curtain sync, Rear-curtain sync, High-speed sync (HSS)
- Zoom Range: 24, 28, 35, 50, 70, 80, 105mm (Auto/Manual)
- Wireless Trigger: Optical pulse master, Optical pulse slave (S1, S2)
- Recycle Time: Approx. 2 seconds (at full power)
- Power Source: 4 x AA size batteries (Alkaline or Ni-MH)
- External Interface: Hot shoe, PC port, USB port
- Color Temperature: 5600K
- Flash Duration: 1/200s - 1/20000s
11. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or contact your retailer. You may also visit the official YONGNUO website for the latest support resources and contact details.
Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.