Versatile Flash Output
Any tool will only be valuable, if there are opportunities to use it to its full potential, and with the Speedlite EL-5 whether shooting indoors or out, dark situations or bright, or with a close-up or far subject – it has numerous features to handle challenging situations with ease.
Whether you need the maximum flash output to capture a deep depth of field scene in a dark environment, or just a kiss of fill-light to reduce the shadows on the face of a subject – the Speedlite EL-5 has you covered with an extended flash output range of 1/1 to 1/1024th power (a three stop improvement compared to Speedlite 600EX-II RT – 1/1-1/128th), with full 1/1 manual power emitting a guide number of 60m/169.9ft @200mm (at approx. ISO 100). Working with a variety of lenses is also easy, as the Auto zoom functionality allows flash coverage from 24-200mm. The additional 14mm wide panel can also be used for wider-angle flash coverage when working beyond 24mm. With a higher-precision flash output the Speedlite EL-5 will be a trusted companion for creative flash situations.
Multi-Function Shoe ConnectionThe new digital connector at the bottom of the Speedlite EL-5’s Multi-function shoe “foot” allows for greater flash to camera communication. In the case of the EL-5 you get superior coordination between the camera and the flash unit compared to previous Canon Speedlites, including the “Menu direct” function, Customize button function, and Custom flash modes. Gold-plated terminals in the shoe improve connection quality, and the installation status is checked before starting communications, to ensure reliable connection to cameras such as the Canon EOS R3, R7, R10, and R6 Mark II.
Custom Flash Modes C1, C2, C3
Changing flash modes and settings on the fly in high-stress situations can be extremely challenging – and with the addition of Custom Flash modes, the ability to instantly switch between registered setting including E-TTL auto flash to Manual flash and individual values is now possible. This is extremely helpful in situations where ambient light changes frequently (Ex. shooting a bride and groom kissing on the alter, then switching exposure to a backlit scene as they walk out of the church.) This is also highly desirable when your priority for lighting changes from lighting a scene, to lighting only a face. This versatility can also link C1, C2, and C3 at the flash to C1, C2, and C3 at the camera on compatible cameras – allowing the recall of flash settings registered in Speedlite EL-5 using the camera’s shooting mode. By registering the flash settings in-advance the flash mode is directly switched using the camera’s shooting mode setting.
Intuitive UI DesignSpeedlite EL-5 sports a modern and refined look, featuring the same joystick, Select dial and LCD panel as the flagship Speedlite EL-1 – creating an intuitive user interface, that enables quick adjustments while shooting. With Camera-linked functions available through use of the “Speedlite menu direct button” in compatible EOS R-series camera’s “Customize Buttons” menu, the use of the joystick can easily display “Flash function settings” or even “Quick flash group control” screens on the camera LCD screen for access to quick adjustments. Additionally, with the high visibility LCD panel on the Speedlite EL-5, it’s easy to check settings, and even available battery during high action situations.
Modeling Lamp
Previewing the effect of a flash has become easier with the addition of a built-in LED Modeling lamp. Brightness level can be set at five different levels, and can be controlled either by the dedicated button, or by pressing the shutter twice. Additionally, off-camera Speedlite EL-5 Receiver unit’s modeling lamps can now be activated and deactivated from a Sender Speedlite EL-5 to check its flash effect when using multiple Speedlites. Whether using the lamp for checking where your shadows will fall on a subject, or to aid AF-assist this LED light is incredibly helpful.
Expanded App Controls
Canon’s Camera Connect smartphone app allows users to control the wireless flash settings, shutter release, and check photo results. The user can operate and configure these settings from a smartphone without touching the camera or flash unit(s). This is particularly useful for multi-flash shooting, shooting with flash unit(s) placed in hard-to-reach spots, and shooting with a limited number of assistants. The user can choose the placement and direction of each flash unit, and then use the app to adjust the light intensity while checking the shooting results on the smartphone screen.
Dust and Moisture Resistance
In addition to the new rubber seal around the shoe locking mechanism, the EL-5 achieves dust and moisture-resistant performance equivalent to that of EOS R5. To ensure airtightness, sealing is applied to the joints of the exterior cover. Even when shooting under difficult conditions, dust and moisture is prevented from penetrating the unit body.
