Yongnuo YN968EX-RT: A Comprehensive Guide

Nov 3, 2025 by Admin 42 views

Hey there, photography enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the world of flash photography and specifically focusing on the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT. This flash unit is a popular choice for photographers of all levels, offering a blend of affordability and functionality. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about the YN968EX-RT, from its features and performance to how to use it effectively. Whether you're a beginner looking to understand the basics of speedlight use or a seasoned pro seeking a reliable off-camera flash solution, this article has got you covered. We'll explore its capabilities, compare it with other flashes, and provide tips to help you capture stunning images. Let's get started and illuminate your photography journey!

Understanding the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT: Features and Specifications

First things first, what exactly is the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT? It's a powerful and versatile speedlight designed for use with Canon cameras (though there are versions for other camera systems as well). The "RT" in its name signifies its compatibility with Canon's RT (Radio Transmission) system, meaning it can be controlled wirelessly via radio signals. This is a game-changer because it allows you to trigger and control the flash from a distance, without needing line-of-sight, which is a big advantage over traditional infrared-based systems. The YN968EX-RT packs a punch with its guide number of 60 (at ISO 100 and 200mm zoom), indicating its power output. This means it can effectively illuminate subjects even in challenging lighting conditions. The flash head offers a zoom range from 20mm to 200mm, which can be extended to 14mm using the built-in diffuser. This flexibility allows you to tailor the light spread to suit your specific needs, whether you're shooting portraits, events, or product photography. The flash also boasts a high-speed sync (HSS) mode, enabling you to use faster shutter speeds than the camera's normal sync speed. This is crucial for overcoming bright ambient light or creating shallow depth of field. It has a fast recycle time of approximately 2 seconds at full power, ensuring you don't miss those fleeting moments. The unit also includes a built-in LED light, which can be used as a modeling light or video light. The LED light offers adjustable brightness, giving you more creative control. The flash is powered by four AA batteries, a common and easily accessible power source. Overall, the YN968EX-RT is a feature-rich flash that provides excellent value for its price, making it a favorite among photographers.

Key Specifications:

Guide Number: GN60 (at ISO 100 and 200mm zoom)
Zoom Range: 20-200mm (with 14mm diffuser)
Radio System: Canon RT compatible
HSS: Yes
Recycle Time: Approx. 2 seconds at full power
LED Light: Built-in
Power Source: 4 x AA batteries

Setting Up and Using the YN968EX-RT: A Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, let's get down to the practical side of things. Setting up and using the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT is relatively straightforward, but it's important to understand the basics to get the most out of it. Firstly, insert four fresh AA batteries into the battery compartment. Make sure you use good quality batteries to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Next, mount the flash unit onto your camera's hot shoe. Secure it by tightening the locking ring. Once the flash is mounted, turn it on. You'll find a power button on the back of the flash. The LCD screen on the back will light up, displaying various settings. The screen is clear and easy to read, even in bright conditions. Now, it's time to set up the flash mode. You can choose from various modes, including TTL (Through The Lens), manual, multi, and master/slave modes. In TTL mode, the flash automatically adjusts its power output based on the camera's metering system. This is a great option for beginners as it simplifies the process. In manual mode, you have complete control over the flash power, allowing you to fine-tune the lighting to your exact specifications. Multi mode lets you create stroboscopic effects, capturing multiple flashes in a single frame. The master/slave mode is used for off-camera flash setups. When using the flash off-camera, you can use the built-in radio transmitter to trigger the flash remotely. To do this, you'll need a compatible Canon camera or a Yongnuo trigger. Set the flash to slave mode and the transmitter to master mode. Set the channels and groups on both the transmitter and receiver to match. This enables the transmitter to communicate with the flash. Adjust the flash power, zoom setting, and other parameters directly from the transmitter. Now, you're ready to start shooting! Experiment with different flash settings, angles, and modifiers to achieve the desired lighting effects. Start with TTL mode to get a feel for how the flash behaves, and then gradually move to manual mode to gain more control. Remember to always check your results on the camera's LCD screen and make adjustments as needed. For off-camera setups, consider using light stands and modifiers like softboxes or umbrellas to soften the light and create more flattering results. Be sure to check your camera's sync speed, which is the fastest shutter speed at which the camera can sync with the flash. If you're using HSS, you can exceed this limit. That's the basic process, and remember practice is the key to mastering flash photography!

Mastering Flash Photography with the YN968EX-RT: Tips and Techniques

Now that you know the basics of setting up and using the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT, let's dive into some tips and techniques to help you elevate your flash photography game. First and foremost, understand the relationship between aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. These three elements are the foundation of any photograph, and their interplay is even more critical when using flash. The aperture controls the depth of field, the shutter speed controls the motion blur, and the ISO controls the sensitivity of the camera sensor to light. When using flash, you can use the flash to freeze motion and control the lighting. The flash duration is often much faster than the shutter speed, allowing you to freeze fast-moving subjects. Experiment with different aperture settings to control the depth of field. Use a wider aperture (smaller f-number) to create a shallow depth of field, blurring the background and making your subject stand out. A narrower aperture (larger f-number) will give you a greater depth of field, keeping more of the scene in focus. Shutter speed will control the amount of ambient light captured in your image. A faster shutter speed will reduce the ambient light, while a slower shutter speed will let in more light. Use the HSS to use faster shutter speeds. ISO controls the sensitivity of the camera sensor to light. Keep the ISO as low as possible to minimize noise. However, in low-light situations, you may need to increase the ISO to get a proper exposure. Flash power is another crucial aspect. In TTL mode, the flash will automatically adjust the power based on the camera's metering system. However, sometimes you might want to use flash exposure compensation (FEC) to fine-tune the flash output. In manual mode, you have complete control over the flash power. Start with low power settings and gradually increase the power until you achieve the desired results. Also, consider the angle of your flash. Direct flash can create harsh shadows and unflattering results. Experiment with bouncing the flash off of walls or ceilings to create softer, more diffused light. You can also use light modifiers like softboxes, umbrellas, or diffusers to soften the light. Light modifiers will diffuse the light, making it softer and more flattering, especially for portraits. Practice is key. The more you experiment with your flash, the more comfortable you'll become with it. Try different settings, angles, and modifiers. Take photos in various situations and with different subjects. Analyze your results and make adjustments as needed. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Learn from your mistakes and keep practicing. With time, you'll develop a keen eye for light and will be able to use your flash to create stunning images. Using the YN968EX-RT is a learning experience, but with time and practice, you can master flash photography.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the YN968EX-RT

Even the best gear can sometimes run into issues, so let's address some common problems you might encounter with the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT and how to troubleshoot them. One of the most common issues is the flash not firing. If your flash isn't firing, the first thing to check is the batteries. Make sure they're fresh and properly inserted. Also, check the power switch to make sure it's turned on. Check that the flash is securely mounted on the camera's hot shoe and that the hot shoe contacts are clean. Sometimes the contacts can get dirty, preventing a good connection. Another thing to consider is the flash mode. If you're using TTL mode, make sure the flash is set to TTL. If you're using manual mode, make sure the flash power is set to a level that is appropriate for your subject and distance. If you're using off-camera flash, ensure that the flash and transmitter are on the same channel and group. If your flash is firing but the images are underexposed, you might need to adjust the flash exposure compensation (FEC). The FEC allows you to fine-tune the flash output. If the images are overexposed, reduce the FEC. You can also adjust the aperture and shutter speed to achieve the desired exposure. Make sure your shutter speed is within the camera's sync speed. If you're using HSS, make sure your camera is set to HSS mode. If the flash is not zooming correctly, check the zoom setting on the flash head. Make sure it's set to the appropriate zoom setting for your lens. Sometimes the flash can overheat, especially if you're using it at full power for extended periods. If this happens, the flash may shut down automatically to protect itself. To prevent overheating, reduce the flash power or allow the flash to cool down between shots. If you have issues with wireless communication, make sure that the flash and transmitter are within range. The range of the wireless system can vary, so it is recommended to test the range. Also, make sure there are no obstructions between the flash and transmitter. If you're still having trouble, consult the YN968EX-RT user manual. The manual contains detailed information about the flash's features and troubleshooting tips. Contact Yongnuo support for further assistance if these troubleshooting steps don't resolve the issue. In most cases, these tips will help you quickly resolve any issues you might encounter.

Yongnuo YN968EX-RT vs. Other Flash Units: A Comparative Analysis

When choosing a flash unit, it's essential to compare different options to find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Let's compare the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT with some of its competitors. First, let's consider the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT. The Canon 600EX II-RT is a high-end flash unit from Canon, offering superior build quality and performance. It has a higher guide number than the YN968EX-RT and a more robust radio transmission system. However, it's also significantly more expensive than the Yongnuo. The Canon flash will be superior in terms of build quality and features but at a premium price. If you are a professional photographer or require the best performance, the Canon may be a good investment. Another popular option is the Godox Ving V860III. The Godox V860III is a powerful flash with a built-in lithium-ion battery, providing faster recycle times and longer battery life. The Godox system is well-regarded for its compatibility across different camera systems and a wide range of modifiers. While it may have some advanced features, it generally falls into a similar price range as the Yongnuo. Its benefits are the battery and a good radio system. Compared to the YN968EX-RT, the Godox offers slightly better performance and features. Another flash to compare is the Nissin i60A. This flash is known for its compact size and user-friendly interface. The Nissin i60A is a good option for photographers who need a portable flash. The Nissin flash is smaller and easier to carry. The Nissin is also an excellent choice for beginner photographers. In terms of value, the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT offers an excellent balance of features and affordability. It's a great choice for photographers who are looking for a reliable and versatile flash without breaking the bank. The build quality may not be as high as Canon's, but the YN968EX-RT provides a good balance between cost and performance. So, your decision should depend on your specific needs and budget. The Canon is an excellent choice if you're looking for top-of-the-line performance and build quality. The Godox is a good choice if you're looking for faster recycle times and a longer battery life. The Nissin i60A is a great option if you need a compact and user-friendly flash. But for most photographers, the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT is an excellent choice. It offers the best value for money, making it an excellent option for hobbyists and professionals alike.

Conclusion: Is the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT Right for You?

So, after exploring all the features, setup, and techniques, is the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT the right flash for you? The answer depends on your individual needs and experience level. If you're a beginner or an enthusiast looking to upgrade from your camera's built-in flash, the YN968EX-RT is an excellent choice. It offers a wealth of features, including TTL, HSS, and a radio transmission system, making it easy to learn and master. The affordability of the YN968EX-RT is another significant advantage. It's a budget-friendly option, perfect for those who want to experiment with flash photography without investing a fortune. The build quality, while not as robust as some higher-end brands, is perfectly adequate for most photographers. If you're a professional photographer or require the absolute best performance, you might consider other options. The Canon 600EX II-RT offers superior build quality and a more advanced radio transmission system. But for most users, the YN968EX-RT will meet all needs. Overall, the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT is a versatile and reliable flash unit that provides an excellent value for its price. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, the YN968EX-RT can help you create stunning images. This flash unit has the features, the power, and the functionality to elevate your work. So, go out there and start creating amazing images with the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT. Happy shooting! I hope this guide has provided you with all the information you need to make an informed decision and to start creating amazing images with your new flash.