Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective operation of your Godox TT520 III Camera Flash. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure proper functionality and to prevent damage to the unit or injury to yourself.
The Godox TT520 III is a manual camera flash designed for various camera systems with a single-contact hotshoe. It features a built-in 433MHz wireless receiver, adjustable power settings, and a rotatable flash head for versatile lighting control.
Image: The Godox TT520 III flash unit, highlighting its compact design and readiness for use.
What's in the Box
Upon unpacking, please verify that all the following items are included:
- 1x Godox TT520 III Flash Light
- 1x RT-16 Transmitter (433MHz Wireless Trigger)
- 1x Protective Bag
- 1x Mini Stand
- 1x User Manual (this document)
Image: A visual representation of all components included in the Godox TT520 III package.
Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the main components and controls of the TT520 III flash unit.
Image: The Godox TT520 III flash unit, showing its main body, LCD screen, and control buttons, along with the included RT-16 transmitter and other accessories.
Key Components:
- Flash Head: Rotatable and tiltable for bounce flash and direct lighting.
- LCD Display: Shows current power settings, mode, and wireless channel.
- Control Buttons: For power adjustment, mode selection, and on/off.
- Hotshoe Mount: For attaching the flash to your camera.
- PC Sync Port: For wired triggering.
- Battery Compartment: Holds 4x AA batteries (not included).
Setup
1. Battery Installation:
The TT520 III requires 4x AA batteries (NiMH recommended for optimal performance and recycle times). Open the battery compartment cover on the side of the flash unit and insert the batteries according to the polarity indicators (+/-). Close the cover securely.
Image: A hand demonstrating the insertion of AA batteries into the flash unit's battery compartment.
2. Attaching to Camera:
Slide the flash's hotshoe mount into your camera's hotshoe. Ensure it is fully seated and then tighten the locking ring or lever (if present on your camera's hotshoe) to secure the flash.
3. Attaching the RT-16 Transmitter:
If using wireless triggering, slide the RT-16 transmitter onto your camera's hotshoe and secure it. Ensure the transmitter's channel matches the flash unit's channel (set via the dip switches on the flash).
Operating Instructions
Power On/Off:
Press and hold the power button on the flash unit to turn it on or off. The LCD display will illuminate when powered on.
Manual (M) Mode:
In Manual (M) mode, you have full control over the flash output. The TT520 III offers 8 power settings, adjustable from 1/128 to full power (1/1) in ±1/3-stop increments. Use the '+' and '-' buttons to adjust the power level. The current power setting will be displayed on the LCD.
Image: The flash unit's LCD screen displaying the manual power output setting, demonstrating precise control.
Image: Examples of how different manual power settings (1/128 to 1/1) affect the lighting in a photograph.
S1/S2 Optical Slave Modes:
The TT520 III supports S1 and S2 optical slave modes for off-camera triggering by another flash. Press the 'MODE' button to cycle through modes until S1 or S2 is displayed.
- S1 Mode: The flash will fire in sync with the first flash it detects. This is suitable for manual flashes.
- S2 Mode: The flash will ignore the first pre-flash (used by TTL systems) and fire in sync with the second flash. This is suitable for cameras with TTL pre-flash functions.
433MHz Wireless Triggering:
The TT520 III features an integrated 433MHz receiver. When used with the included RT-16 transmitter, it offers 16-channel wireless triggering. Ensure the dip switches on the flash unit are set to match the channel selected on the RT-16 transmitter for reliable synchronization.
Image: The flash unit being triggered wirelessly by the RT-16 transmitter mounted on a camera, demonstrating its off-camera capabilities.
Image: A visual guide to the multiple triggering options available, including on-camera, wireless, and optical sync, and the effective range of the wireless system.
Adjustable Flash Head:
The flash head can be rotated horizontally from 0° to 330° and vertically from -7° to 120°. This allows for direct flash, bounce flash off ceilings or walls, and other creative lighting techniques. Gently adjust the flash head to the desired angle.
Image: A diagram illustrating the full range of motion for the flash head, both horizontally and vertically.
Image: A visual representation of the flash head's adjustability, allowing for various bounce and direct lighting setups.
Built-in Reflector & Diffuser:
The flash head includes a pull-out wide-angle diffuser and a bounce card. Use the diffuser to soften the light and the bounce card to create catchlights in subjects' eyes or to direct a small amount of light forward when bouncing.
Image: A demonstration of the built-in reflector and diffuser being used to modify light output.
Compatibility
The Godox TT520 III features a universal single-contact hotshoe design, making it widely compatible with most cameras from brands such as Canon, Sony, Nikon, Fujifilm, Panasonic, and Olympus. It is designed to work with cameras that have a standard center-pin hotshoe.
Important Compatibility Notice:
- This is a fully manual flash. It does not support TTL (Through-The-Lens) automatic exposure or High-Speed Sync (HSS).
- Not compatible with Canon Rebel T6, T7, 2000D, 4000D, T100.
- Not compatible with some Sony models like A7III (due to hotshoe design differences).
Image: The flash unit mounted on different camera bodies, showcasing its universal hotshoe compatibility.
Image: A detailed comparison of compatible hotshoe designs, highlighting the single-contact requirement for the TT520 III.
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 one. Do not use strong detergents or solvents.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, remove the batteries to prevent leakage and store the flash in its protective bag in a cool, dry place.
- Handling: Avoid dropping the flash or subjecting it to strong impacts. Protect the flash tube from direct contact and dust.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Flash does not power on. | Batteries are dead or incorrectly inserted. | Replace batteries with fresh ones, ensuring correct polarity. |
| Flash does not fire. |
|
|
| Flash output is too bright/dark. | Manual power setting is incorrect. | Adjust manual power setting using '+' and '-' buttons. |
| Flash does not sync with camera. | Camera hotshoe not compatible (e.g., Canon Rebel T6/T7, some Sony A7III). | Verify camera compatibility. This flash is manual and does not support TTL/HSS. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | TT520III |
| Guide Number (GN) | 33 (ISO 100, in meters) |
| Flash Mode | Manual (M), S1, S2 |
| Power Control | 8 levels (1/128 to 1/1) in ±1/3-stop increments |
| Wireless Triggering | 433MHz, 16 Channels (with RT-16 transmitter) |
| Vertical Rotation Angle | -7° to 120° |
| Horizontal Rotation Angle | 0° to 330° |
| Flash Duration | 1/510 to 1/31000 seconds |
| Recycle Time | Approx. 1.8 seconds (with NiMH batteries) |
| Full Power Flashes | Up to 400 (with NiMH batteries) |
| Power Source | 4x AA batteries (not included) |
| Dimensions | 182 x 74 x 72 mm (approx.) |
| Weight | Approx. 304g (without batteries) |
| Hotshoe Type | Single-contact hotshoe |
Image: A comparison table highlighting the enhanced features of the TT520 III over its predecessor, the TT520 II.
Image: Visual representation of the flash's performance metrics, including guide number, number of flashes, and recycle time.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Godox website or contact your local distributor. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Manufacturer: GODOX Manufacturer
Model Number: TT520III