I can't set my 580ex to manual while the remote in on the hot shoe. The problem is that the remote won't work unless the flashgun is set to slave, and when it's set to slave, the manual setting doesn't work.

Anyone have a clue on this?

I just want to be able to set the flash intensity using a light meter and the STE2 remote. As it is right now, I'm stuck either using FEC or moving the light closer or further away--which is really impractical on locations.

With the 580 in slave mode hold the mode button for a couple of seconds and it will go into manual.

Those manuals are confusing. But thanks much.

You will love this:

Dear Mr. Dallam:

Thank you for contacting Canon product support. We value you as a Canon
customer and appreciate the opportunity to assist you with your ST-E2
and 580EX.

You cannot use the 580EX as a manual flash when it is set to Slave.

We hope this information is helpful to you. Please let us know if we
can be of any further assistance with your equipment.

Thank you for choosing Canon.

Sincerely,

Erik
Technical Support Representative

Needless to say, I tried holding the mode button in SLAVE and it switched to Manual just like you said.

An emancipated slave, so to speak.

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