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Lighting & Flash

TTL Flash Metering

Automatic flash exposure in which the camera fires a brief preflash, measures the light returning through the lens, and sets the main burst accordingly.

Measured in stops (EV)

In depth

TTL is fast and adaptive, which is why it dominates event and reportage work where distance changes constantly. It shares the weakness of every reflected-light meter: a dark suit or a white dress fools it, and the preflash can be confused by mirrors or by the subject blinking. Flash exposure compensation is the standard correction.

Examples in practice

Photographing a receiving line, TTL adjusts correctly as each guest steps closer to the camera.