Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT Flash: A Comprehensive Guide

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Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT Flash: A Comprehensive Guide

Hey there, photography enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT flash, a popular choice for photographers looking for a powerful and feature-rich speedlight without breaking the bank. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this flash, from its features and capabilities to its performance and how it stacks up against the competition. So, grab your cameras, and let's get started!

Unveiling the Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT: Features and Specifications

Alright, let's kick things off by taking a look at what makes the Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT tick. This flash is packed with features that cater to both amateur and professional photographers. Understanding these features is crucial to maximizing its potential. So, what exactly can this flash do?

First off, the YN-968EX-RT boasts a high guide number of 60 meters at ISO 100 and 200mm zoom. This means it can deliver a lot of light, making it suitable for various shooting conditions, including those dimly lit scenarios. It's a key feature, especially for events like weddings, parties, or any situation where you need to freeze the action or light up a large space. It's powerful enough to overpower the sun in some situations, which is super handy when you're shooting outdoors and need to fill in shadows or create a specific lighting effect. Guide number is your key indicator of the flash's power. The higher the number, the more powerful the flash.

Next, the YN-968EX-RT is designed with a built-in 2.4GHz radio transmission system, making it compatible with Canon's RT (Radio Transmission) system. This is a game-changer because it allows you to use the flash wirelessly with other compatible Yongnuo and Canon flashes and triggers, up to a range of about 100 meters. The RT system enables you to control multiple flashes from a single master unit, which gives you greater flexibility when it comes to lighting setups. This is perfect for those who want to create complex lighting scenarios without needing to run around and adjust settings on each flash manually. Imagine being able to control a whole bunch of lights from your camera! That's the power of the RT system.

Then, the flash has a zoom range of 20-200mm, which can be extended to 14mm using the built-in diffuser. This zoom range allows you to adapt the flash's beam to match the focal length of your lens, giving you better control over the light spread. For example, if you're shooting with a wide-angle lens, you'll want to zoom out the flash to cover the wider field of view. And for telephoto lenses, you zoom in to concentrate the light. This means the flash is versatile enough to be used with a wide array of lenses.

Moreover, the YN-968EX-RT supports high-speed sync (HSS), which is essential for shooting with fast shutter speeds. HSS lets you use your flash at shutter speeds faster than your camera's sync speed. This is crucial when shooting in bright sunlight and you want to use a wide aperture to blur the background. Without HSS, your photos might end up with a dark band across them. This is because the camera's shutter speed exceeds the flash's ability to fire. HSS solves this problem by allowing the flash to pulse rapidly, so that it can sync with the faster shutter speeds.

Also, it comes with a color LCD screen, which makes it easy to navigate the settings and see the flash's status. It also has an auto-focus assist beam to help with focusing in low-light conditions. You'll also find features like FEC (Flash Exposure Compensation) to fine-tune the flash output, and a modeling light function for previewing the light before you take the shot. You also get a bounce card and a diffuser built in, so you can soften the light output without needing to purchase any extra accessories.

In summary, the Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT offers a plethora of features, making it a powerful and versatile tool for photographers looking to enhance their lighting game. From its high guide number and radio transmission system to its zoom range and HSS capabilities, it’s designed to handle various shooting situations.

Setting Up and Using Your YN-968EX-RT Flash

Okay, now that we know what the YN-968EX-RT can do, let's get into how to actually use it. Setting up the flash and mastering its functions is pretty straightforward. So, how do we get this thing up and running?

First, you'll need to attach the flash to your camera's hot shoe. Make sure the flash is securely mounted to avoid any accidental detachment. Once it's mounted, turn it on, and you'll be greeted by the color LCD screen. The display shows the current settings, which you can adjust using the buttons on the back of the flash. Getting familiar with these buttons is key. The buttons are generally intuitive, and you'll get used to them quickly. The menu system is easy to navigate.

To begin, set the flash mode. You have options like TTL (Through The Lens), manual, and multi mode. TTL mode lets the flash automatically adjust the flash output based on the camera's metering system. It's great for beginners and for quickly changing shooting situations. Manual mode lets you control the flash output power manually, giving you complete control over your lighting. This is often the mode of choice for experienced photographers who want a very precise light control. Multi mode allows the flash to fire multiple times in a single shot, creating a stroboscopic effect. This is good for creative shots that capture motion.

If you're using the flash off-camera, you'll need a compatible trigger. The YN-968EX-RT is compatible with Canon's RT system, so you can use it with Canon RT transmitters, such as the ST-E3-RT. Set up the transmitter on your camera's hot shoe, and configure both the flash and transmitter to the same channel. This will allow the flash to be triggered wirelessly. This remote operation gives you tons of creative freedom since you can position your lights wherever you need them. Remember to ensure that the flash and the trigger are on the same channel and group to ensure they communicate properly.

When using the flash, pay attention to the zoom setting. Adjust the flash's zoom head to match the focal length of your lens. This ensures that the light is spread evenly across your frame. The flash's zoom range goes from 20-200mm, and you can extend that to 14mm using the built-in diffuser. Remember, your goal is to light the subject evenly, so matching the zoom setting is a must. If you're shooting with a wide-angle lens, you might want to use the diffuser. Bounce the flash off a ceiling or wall to soften the light and create a more flattering effect. Experiment with different angles and surfaces to get different effects.

Finally, don't be afraid to experiment! The YN-968EX-RT has a lot to offer, so try different modes, power levels, and lighting setups to find what works best for your photography style. You can also play with the FEC (Flash Exposure Compensation) to fine-tune the flash's output. Make sure you take a few test shots and review your images to ensure that your lighting is exactly how you want it. Practice makes perfect, so play around with different settings and light setups to learn and grow.

Performance and Reliability of the Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT

Alright, let's talk about the real deal: how well does the Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT perform in the real world? Performance and reliability are what really matter, right? How good is this flash in action?

First off, the YN-968EX-RT delivers consistent and reliable performance. The flash recycles quickly, meaning you can take shots in rapid succession without waiting for it to recharge. The recycle time depends on the power output, but it's generally pretty fast, which is critical for action photography or shooting events where you need to be able to take shots quickly. It also has a good flash duration, which helps to freeze motion. So it does a great job of capturing fast-moving subjects without motion blur.

The flash's light output is accurate, and the color temperature is consistent. This is super important because it helps you to get colors right. It is also good for post-processing because you'll have less adjustment needed to achieve accurate colors. The built-in radio transmission system works reliably, providing a good range for wireless shooting. The flash can consistently trigger from the trigger unit even in challenging situations, and it can maintain a stable connection, providing a seamless shooting experience.

As for durability, the YN-968EX-RT is built pretty solid. It’s made of quality plastic and feels reasonably sturdy. While it might not be as robust as some of the high-end flashes, it can definitely withstand the rigors of everyday use. But you should take care, as any speedlight can break if dropped or subjected to extreme weather. The flash also features overheating protection, which is great because it prevents the flash from getting damaged during prolonged use. The flash will shut down if it gets too hot, which will protect the internal components.

In conclusion, the Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT performs admirably in most scenarios. It's a reliable and consistent performer that delivers accurate light output, fast recycle times, and a dependable radio transmission system. The flash's build quality is adequate for most users. When it comes to its performance and reliability, the flash is a solid contender, which makes it a great choice for many photographers.

Comparing the YN-968EX-RT with the Competition

Now, let's see how the Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT stacks up against the competition. There are other speedlights out there, so how does this Yongnuo offering compare? How does it stand against its rivals? Let’s find out.

One of its main competitors is the Canon 600EX-RT. The YN-968EX-RT is designed to mimic Canon's RT system, so it is a direct competitor. Both flashes offer similar features, including a high guide number, HSS, and a radio transmission system. However, the Yongnuo flash is usually available at a much lower price point than the Canon flash. So, in terms of value for money, the YN-968EX-RT has a clear advantage. You'll get more features at a fraction of the cost. While the Canon flash might offer slightly better build quality and some more advanced features, the difference in performance is often minimal for most users. If you're on a budget, the Yongnuo is the better choice.

Another competitor is Godox. Godox is another brand that makes very popular and affordable flashes. Godox offers a wide range of flashes with various features, and they're known for their powerful lights and great wireless system. Godox's offerings often have a different system of wireless triggering. The Godox system is also very capable, and they offer a lot of advanced features. But you have to compare the specific features of each product to make a decision. The YN-968EX-RT excels in its Canon RT compatibility, so if you are already invested in the Canon RT ecosystem, the Yongnuo will be a better choice. However, if you're looking for a completely different system, Godox is a good choice to explore.

Then, there are the higher-end flashes from brands such as Profoto and Elinchrom. These flashes are generally more expensive but offer more advanced features and build quality. They are often used by professionals who need a flash with the ultimate performance. The YN-968EX-RT is not in the same class. Those brands are for users who need a more professional approach. While the YN-968EX-RT can deliver amazing results, these premium flashes offer features like more powerful output, faster recycle times, and more durable builds. These are not in the same price range, and they cater to a different segment of the market.

Ultimately, the Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT provides a good balance of features, performance, and value. It's an excellent choice for photographers looking for a reliable and affordable flash. The choice between these flashes really comes down to your needs, budget, and brand preference. Consider your shooting style, the features you need, and how much you want to spend, and then make your decision.

Pros and Cons of the Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT

To make your decision easier, let's sum up the pros and cons of the Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT. What are the good and bad things about this flash?

Pros:

  • Affordable: The flash is available at a very competitive price. This makes it an accessible option for many photographers. This is great for those who are starting out or those who are on a budget.
  • Feature-rich: The flash offers a lot of features, including a high guide number, HSS, and a radio transmission system. It is packed with features, which enhances your creative possibilities.
  • Canon RT Compatible: Its built-in radio transmission system is compatible with Canon RT. This makes it compatible with Canon's RT system. You can easily integrate it into your existing setup.
  • Versatile: The flash can be used both on and off-camera, allowing for flexible lighting setups. It gives you the flexibility to use the flash in a variety of situations. You can be creative with your lighting.
  • Easy to Use: The color LCD screen and intuitive controls make it easy to navigate the settings. It is easy to set up and use, even for beginners.

Cons:

  • Build Quality: The build quality is decent but not as robust as some of the high-end flashes. It might not be as durable as some of the more expensive options. You should handle with care.
  • Autofocus Assist Beam: The autofocus assist beam might not be as effective as some other flashes. There might be some focus issues in certain low-light situations. Consider an alternative way to focus if needed.
  • Firmware Updates: Firmware updates might be less frequent compared to more established brands. Stay up-to-date with your firmware, because it might not be as updated.

Conclusion: Is the Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT Right for You?

Alright, folks, we've covered a lot of ground today! We've taken an in-depth look at the Yongnuo YN-968EX-RT flash. So, is this flash the right choice for you?

If you're looking for a powerful, feature-rich, and affordable speedlight, then the YN-968EX-RT is a fantastic option. It provides great value for money and offers excellent performance for various shooting situations. It is a solid choice for amateur and professional photographers. If you're on a budget and want to expand your lighting capabilities, this is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for beginners, enthusiasts, and even professionals looking for a reliable and affordable flash. It provides an excellent balance of features and performance.

If you're a professional who needs the absolute best build quality and performance, you may want to consider higher-end flashes. However, for most photographers, the YN-968EX-RT will deliver excellent results. It's a versatile tool that can help you take your photography to the next level. So go out there, experiment, and have fun with it.

Thanks for joining me today, and happy shooting!