TTL metering and TTL flash – Speedlite flashes, studio strobes and flash triggers with TTL mode

In photography, TTL (through-the-lens) metering is a feature of cameras whereby light levels are measured through the lens that captures the picture, as opposed to a separate metering window. This information can then be used to set the correct exposure, and control the amount of light emitted by a flash connected to the camera. TTL Flash Metering is the standard metering mode that your camera employs where you’re using the camera’s built-in pop-up flash. You can also use this metering mode with some of the dedicated flash units available for your camera. TTL flash metering measures the burst of flash output light reflecting back from the subject and takes its reading through the lens. TTL manipulates the flash exposure with a dedicated sensor that measures the flash output reflected from the surface of the image sensor during active exposure.

TTL flashes and triggers are usually much easier to use than manual ones, especially for beginners. If you are using TTL speedlites like Yongnuo YN600EX-RT II or YN685, Pixel X800C, Shanny SN600N or any other TTL speedlite flash then you can simply take photos in camera auto mode, the camera and speedlite will choose the correct settings. If you prefer to shoot in manual mode, then everything you need is to set ISO, aperture and shutter speed, and speedlite flash will calculate the amount of light needed for the correct exposure. If you are using manual speedlite then you will have to set flash power also, which requires a little practice and experience.

TTL flashes and triggers have another big advantage over manual ones and that is AF assist lamp. Built in AF Assist lamp helps camera to focus in low light situations. Manual flashes do not have auto focus assist lamp so please take that in mind when choosing the flash for your needs. In our opinion, manual flashes like Yongnuo YN560 IV or Yongnuo YN660 are great, but we prefer to use them off-camera for 2nd or 3rd light, not for the on-camera flash.

When it comes to radio triggers then most higher-end triggers support ttl metering. These triggers will give you much more versatility than any other non-TTL triggers. Manual triggers do not allow you to remote control your flash from Camera like TTL triggers do. Imagine putting a flash speedlite into a softbox and adjusting it from your camera directly. Either you choose Yongnuo YN622 triggers, Godox X1 triggers, Pixel King pro triggers you can not go wrong. All of these systems support TTL, HSS, remote control and all other important features.