1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your Godox V1-C U Round Head Camera Flash for Canon. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure optimal performance and to prevent damage.
The Godox V1-C U is a high-performance speedlight designed for Canon cameras, featuring a unique round head for soft, even light distribution. It supports TTL auto flash, High-Speed Sync (HSS), and a 2.4 GHz Wireless X-System for versatile lighting control.
Figure 1.1: Godox V1-C U Round Head Camera Flash.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Risk of electric shock. Do not open. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.
- Do not disassemble or modify the flash unit.
- Keep the flash unit dry. Do not expose to rain or moisture.
- Do not touch the internal parts of the flash unit if it has been dropped or damaged.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Use only the specified battery and charger.
- Avoid direct eye exposure to the flash, especially at close range, as it may impair vision.
- Do not operate the flash in the presence of flammable gases or liquids.
3. What's Included
Verify that all items are present in your package:
- 1 x Godox V1 U Flash
- 1 x Li-ion Battery (2600mAh)
- 1 x Charger
- 1 x USB Charging Cable
- 1 x Mini Stand
- 1 x Protection Bag
- 1 x Instruction Manual
- 1 x White/Yellow/Blue Diffuser Set
- 1 x 6” x 7” Mini Flash Softbox
- 1 x 24 Color Filter Set
Figure 3.1: All items included in the Godox V1-C U package.
4. Setup
4.1. Battery Installation and Charging
The Godox V1-C U is powered by a removable 2600mAh lithium-ion battery. Ensure the battery is fully charged before first use.
- Locate the battery compartment on the side of the flash unit.
- Press the release button and slide the battery cover open.
- Insert the Li-ion battery into the compartment, ensuring correct polarity.
- Close the battery cover until it clicks securely.
- To charge, remove the battery and place it in the provided charger. Connect the charger to a power source using the USB charging cable.
Figure 4.1: Li-ion battery and charger for the Godox V1-C U.
4.2. Mounting to Camera
The flash unit features a quick-lock hot-shoe for secure attachment to your Canon camera.
- Slide the flash's hot-shoe onto your camera's hot-shoe mount.
- Rotate the quick-lock lever clockwise until it is firmly secured.
- To remove, rotate the lever counter-clockwise and slide the flash off.
Figure 4.2: Quick-lock hot-shoe for secure camera mounting.
4.3. Basic Controls and Power On/Off
Familiarize yourself with the control panel for easy operation.
- To power on, slide the ON/OFF switch to the 'ON' position. The LCD screen will illuminate.
- To power off, slide the ON/OFF switch to the 'OFF' position.
- The control dial allows for quick adjustments to settings.
Figure 4.3: Detailed view of the Godox V1-C U control panel.
Video 4.1: Overview of the Godox V1C Flash for Canon, demonstrating basic setup and controls.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Flash Modes (TTL, Manual, Multi)
The Godox V1-C U supports various flash modes to suit different shooting scenarios:
- TTL (Through-The-Lens) Auto Flash: Automatically adjusts flash output for correct exposure. Ideal for fast-paced shooting where lighting conditions change frequently.
- Manual (M) Flash: Allows you to manually set the flash output from 1/1 to 1/256 power. Provides precise control over lighting.
- Multi (Stroboscopic) Flash: Fires a series of rapid flashes during a single exposure to capture multiple movements of a subject.
5.2. High-Speed Sync (HSS) and Curtain Sync
- High-Speed Sync (HSS): Supports shutter speeds up to 1/8000 sec, allowing you to use wide apertures in bright conditions or freeze fast motion.
- Front Curtain Sync: The flash fires immediately after the shutter opens.
- Rear Curtain Sync: The flash fires just before the shutter closes, creating a trail of light behind moving subjects.
Figure 5.1: Flash head rotation and various sync modes supported by the V1-C U.
5.3. Flash Head Rotation, Tilt, and Zoom
- The flash head rotates 330° horizontally and tilts from -7° to 120° vertically, offering flexible bounce and directional lighting options.
- Auto zoom control with a range of 28-105mm automatically adjusts to match your lens's focal length, ensuring optimal light coverage. Manual zoom adjustment is also available.
5.4. Wireless X-System Operation
The V1-C U features a built-in 2.4 GHz Wireless X-System Transmitter, enabling wireless control and triggering of other Godox flashes.
- Set the V1-C U as a master unit to control compatible slave flashes.
- Adjust flash power, mode, and other settings remotely from the master unit.
- Supports multiple groups and channels for complex lighting setups.
Figure 5.2: Diagram illustrating the Godox 2.4 GHz Wireless X-System for multi-flash control.
5.5. Using Accessories
The V1-C U's round head features a magnetic attachment system for quick and easy use of various light modifiers.
- Diffusers: Attach the included diffusers (white, yellow, blue) to soften and spread the light.
- Color Filters: Use the 24-piece color filter set to add creative color effects to your lighting.
- Mini Flash Softbox: Provides a larger, softer light source for portraits and close-up work.
- Optional AK-R1 Accessories: The magnetic rim allows for quick attachment of the Godox AK-R1 accessory kit, which includes a dome diffuser, diffuser plate, four-wing reflector, bounce card, honeycomb grid, color filters, and a snoot.
Figure 5.3: The comprehensive accessory ecosystem for the Godox V1-C U flash.
Video 5.1: Demonstration of the Godox AK-R1 Accessories, showing how they attach and function with the V1 flash.
5.6. LED Modeling Lamp
The built-in LED modeling lamp is adjustable from 01 to 10 steps, providing continuous light for focusing or previewing lighting effects.
Figure 5.4: Comparison of light effects and use of the LED modeling lamp.
6. Maintenance
6.1. Cleaning
- Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the flash unit.
- For stubborn dirt, use a slightly damp cloth with a mild detergent, then wipe dry.
- Do not use strong solvents or abrasive cleaners.
- Keep the flash tube and sensor clean for optimal performance.
6.2. Battery Care
- Store the Li-ion battery in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently to prolong its lifespan.
- If storing for extended periods, charge the battery to approximately 50% capacity.
6.3. Storage
- Store the flash unit in its protective bag to prevent scratches and dust accumulation.
- Avoid storing in areas with extreme temperatures or high humidity.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Flash does not fire. | Low battery; incorrect mode; flash not securely mounted. | Charge battery; check flash mode (TTL/M); re-mount flash securely. |
| Inconsistent flash output. | Low battery; subject too far/close; incorrect settings. | Charge battery; adjust flash power or aperture; check TTL compensation. |
| Wireless trigger not working. | Incorrect channel/group; distance too far; interference. | Verify channel/group settings; reduce distance; change channel. |
| Flash head not rotating/tilting smoothly. | Obstruction; internal issue. | Check for obstructions; if issue persists, contact support. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 3 x 3.7 x 7.8 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.46 pounds |
| Item Model Number | V1 C U for Canon |
| Batteries | 1 12V Li-ion battery required (included) |
| Manufacturer | Godox |
| Compatible Mountings | Canon 1DX, 5D Mark III, 5D Mark II, 6D, 7D, 60D, 50D, 40D, 30D, 650D, 600D, 550D, 500D, 450D, 400D Digital, 1100D, 1000D, 5D Mark IV, 7D Mark II, 6D Mark II, 760D, 750D, 70D, 80D, 800D, 77D, M5, M3, M50, EOS R, 1500D, 3000D, 5D II, 5D III, RP, 90D, etc. |
| Battery Life | Up to 480 full-power flashes per charge |
| Camera Flash Type | Hotshoe |
| Flash Sync Speed | Up to 1/8000 sec (HSS) |
| Power Output | 76Ws |
| Recycle Time | Approx. 1.5 seconds (full power) |
| Zoom Range | 28-105mm (Auto/Manual) |
| Wireless System | 2.4 GHz Wireless X-System |
9. Warranty & Support
The Godox V1-C U flash comes with a 2-year extended warranty provided by Conxtrue, an official US distributor for Godox products. This includes lifetime after-sales service.
For technical support, warranty claims, or service inquiries, please contact Conxtrue directly. Refer to the contact information provided with your purchase or visit the official Godox/Conxtrue website for details.
