Yongnuo YN968EX-RT Flash: A Comprehensive Guide

Nov 3, 2025 by SLV Team 48 views

Hey photography enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT flash, a popular and feature-rich speedlight that's a favorite among both amateur and professional photographers. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about this flash, from its features and capabilities to how to use it effectively and troubleshooting common issues. So, grab your cameras, and let's get started!

Understanding the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT

First off, let's talk about what makes the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT so special. This is a powerful, versatile, and affordable flashgun designed to offer a fantastic combination of performance and value. It's packed with features that rival those of much more expensive speedlights from major brands like Canon and Nikon. Its popularity stems from its robust build quality, reliable performance, and user-friendly interface, making it an excellent choice for photographers looking to enhance their lighting game without breaking the bank. The YN968EX-RT is particularly well-suited for a variety of photographic scenarios, including portraiture, event photography, and product shots. Its compatibility with the Canon E-TTL / E-TTL II system is a major advantage for Canon users, while its manual mode provides flexibility for those who prefer to have complete control over their lighting. The inclusion of a LED video light is also a handy feature, providing continuous illumination for video recording or as a modeling light. The built-in radio receiver is another key advantage, allowing it to be triggered wirelessly with compatible Yongnuo transmitters (like the YN-E3-RT for Canon), and it also supports off-camera flash setups. Overall, the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT is a fantastic value for money, combining advanced features with ease of use. This makes it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced photographers looking for a reliable and efficient flash unit. Its ability to integrate seamlessly with existing Canon systems while offering the flexibility of manual control makes it a very appealing option.

Key Features and Specifications

The Yongnuo YN968EX-RT is loaded with features designed to enhance your photography. Let's explore some of the most important specifications and features in detail:

Compatibility: Designed for Canon E-TTL / E-TTL II, offering full compatibility with Canon's flash system, ensuring seamless integration with your Canon camera.
Guide Number: A powerful guide number of 60 meters (at ISO 100 and 200mm zoom) provides sufficient power for a wide range of shooting scenarios.
Zoom Range: Covers a zoom range of 20-200mm, with a wide-angle diffuser for coverage down to 14mm, allowing you to adapt to different lens focal lengths and shooting environments.
LED Video Light: Features an integrated LED light, providing continuous illumination for video recording or use as a modeling light to preview the lighting effects.
Radio Trigger System: Equipped with a built-in 2.4GHz radio receiver, compatible with Yongnuo's RT series transmitters, such as the YN-E3-RT, for reliable and long-range wireless flash triggering.
High-Speed Sync (HSS): Supports high-speed sync up to 1/8000s, enabling you to use wider apertures in bright conditions to create shallow depth of field.
Flash Modes: Offers various flash modes, including E-TTL / E-TTL II for automatic metering, Manual mode for full control, and Multi-flash mode for stroboscopic effects.
Recycling Time: Fast recycling time of approximately 2 seconds at full power, ensuring you don't miss any shots.
LCD Display: A clear and easy-to-read LCD screen displays all relevant settings, making it easy to adjust and monitor your flash.
Other Features: Includes a PC sync port for external triggers, a custom function setting for personalized control, and overheat protection to prevent damage during intensive use.

Setting Up and Using Your YN968EX-RT

Alright, now that we've covered the basics, let's get you up and running with your Yongnuo YN968EX-RT! Setting up this flash is pretty straightforward, and it's designed to be user-friendly even if you're new to external flash photography. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

Mounting the Flash on Your Camera

Insert Batteries: First things first, make sure you have fresh batteries. The YN968EX-RT uses four AA batteries. Open the battery compartment (usually located on the side of the flash), insert the batteries according to the polarity markings, and close the compartment.
Attach to the Hot Shoe: Locate the hot shoe on top of your camera (it's the metal slot where the flash attaches). Slide the flash's foot into the hot shoe. Ensure it's fully seated and locked into place by tightening the locking ring or lever on the flash foot. Securely attaching the flash prevents it from accidentally detaching during a shoot.
Power On: Turn on the flash by pressing the power button. Usually, this is a distinct button on the back of the flash. The LCD screen should light up, displaying the flash settings.

Understanding the Controls and Settings

Mode Button: This button allows you to cycle through the different flash modes: E-TTL (for automatic metering), Manual (for complete control over the flash power), and Multi (for stroboscopic flash effects).
Zoom Button: Use this button to adjust the flash head's zoom to match your lens's focal length. The flash head zooms from 20mm to 200mm. It also has a wide panel diffuser for wider coverage.
Test Button: This button fires a test flash. Use it to check if the flash is working correctly and to preview the lighting.
Up/Down/Left/Right Buttons: These buttons are usually used to navigate the menu, change settings, and adjust flash power in manual mode.
LCD Screen: The LCD screen displays all the relevant information, such as flash mode, zoom setting, flash power, and battery life. Get to know what each icon represents to easily monitor and adjust your flash settings.

Using the Flash in E-TTL Mode

E-TTL (Evaluative Through-The-Lens) mode is the easiest way to start using your flash. In this mode, the camera measures the scene and automatically adjusts the flash power to provide a balanced exposure. Here's how to use it:

Set the Flash to E-TTL Mode: Press the mode button until E-TTL or E-TTL II appears on the LCD screen.
Set Your Camera to a Suitable Mode: You can use your camera's Program (P), Aperture Priority (Av), or Shutter Priority (Tv) mode, or use Manual (M) mode if you prefer.
Take a Test Shot: Half-press the shutter button to allow your camera to meter the scene. Then, fully press the shutter to take a picture. Review the results on your camera's LCD screen.
Adjust Exposure Compensation (If Needed): If your images are consistently overexposed or underexposed, you can use flash exposure compensation (FEC) to adjust the flash power. This is usually done through your camera's menu. Increase the FEC for a brighter flash, and decrease it for a dimmer flash.

Using the Flash in Manual Mode

Manual mode gives you complete control over the flash power. This is great for creative lighting setups where you want precise control. Here's how to use it:

Set the Flash to Manual Mode: Press the mode button until 'M' appears on the LCD screen.
Adjust Flash Power: Use the up/down buttons to adjust the flash power. You can set the power from full (1/1) to a very low setting (e.g., 1/128). This allows precise control over the lighting.
Set Your Camera to Manual Mode: This gives you full control over the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Experiment with different settings to achieve the desired exposure.
Take Test Shots and Adjust: Take a test shot, review the results on your camera's LCD screen, and adjust the flash power or camera settings as needed. Using a light meter can also help to determine the correct settings.

Using the Built-In Radio Trigger

The YN968EX-RT's built-in radio receiver is a fantastic feature for off-camera flash photography. Here's how to use it with a compatible Yongnuo RT series transmitter (such as the YN-E3-RT):

Set Up the Transmitter: Mount the transmitter on your camera's hot shoe and power it on.
Set the Flash to Slave Mode: On the flash, navigate to the settings related to the radio trigger, and make sure it’s set to receive signals from the transmitter. The flash should be set to receive signals from the transmitter. This is usually done in the flash's menu, and you'll need to set the flash and transmitter to the same channel.
Position the Flash Off-Camera: Place the flash where you want it.
Test the Trigger: Press the test button on the transmitter to fire the flash. You should see the flash fire.
Adjust Settings and Shoot: Now, you can control the flash settings (power, zoom, etc.) from your transmitter. Take photos and adjust the settings as needed. This allows you to position the flash where you want and control the settings remotely, opening up a world of creative lighting possibilities.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Let's face it, even the best gear sometimes throws a curveball. Here's how to troubleshoot some common issues you might encounter with your Yongnuo YN968EX-RT:

Flash Not Firing

Check the Batteries: Make sure your batteries are charged and correctly inserted into the flash.
Hot Shoe Connection: Ensure the flash is properly seated in the camera's hot shoe and the locking mechanism is engaged. Clean the hot shoe contacts on both the flash and the camera with a soft cloth if needed.
Flash Mode: Confirm that the flash is not in a mode that prevents firing, such as being set to a slave mode without a master flash triggering it.
Radio Trigger: If using a radio trigger, make sure the transmitter and receiver are on the same channel and that the transmitter is powered on and functioning correctly. Check the batteries in the transmitter as well.

Flash Overexposing or Underexposing

E-TTL Issues: In E-TTL mode, try using flash exposure compensation (FEC) to adjust the flash power. If images are consistently overexposed, decrease the FEC. If underexposed, increase the FEC. Also, ensure that there are no strong reflective surfaces close to the subject, which might be confusing the flash meter.
Manual Mode: If in manual mode, adjust the flash power manually until you achieve the desired exposure.
Distance and Power: Be mindful of the distance between the flash and your subject, and adjust the power accordingly. The closer the flash is, the lower the power needed.

Flash Not Zooming Correctly

Zoom Setting: Check that the flash's zoom setting matches the focal length of your lens.
Wide Panel/Diffuser: Ensure that the wide-angle diffuser is removed if you are using a zoom setting of 20mm or higher. Using it at these settings will result in the light being improperly distributed.

LCD Screen Not Displaying Information Correctly

Battery Life: Check the battery indicator on the LCD screen to ensure the batteries have enough power.
Contrast Settings: Some flashes have contrast settings for the LCD screen. If the screen is hard to read, check your flash's menu for contrast settings and adjust accordingly.

Optimizing Your Flash Photography with the YN968EX-RT

To make the most of your Yongnuo YN968EX-RT, consider these tips for getting the best results.

Mastering Flash Modes

E-TTL for Speed: Use E-TTL for quick shots and when you need the flash to handle the exposure automatically. It's great for events and situations where you don't have time to manually adjust the settings.
Manual for Control: Switch to Manual mode for complete control. This is ideal for studio setups, portraiture, and situations where you want to fine-tune the lighting to your exact specifications.
Experiment with Multi-Flash Mode: This allows you to create stroboscopic effects, where the flash fires multiple times during a single exposure. This is great for capturing movement or creating unique visual effects.

Utilizing Accessories

Diffusers: Soften the light by using a diffuser. This can be a built-in diffuser, a softbox, or an umbrella. Soft light is ideal for portraits and reduces harsh shadows.
Reflectors: Use reflectors to bounce light back onto your subject. Silver reflectors provide a cool, crisp light, while gold reflectors give a warmer tone.
Grids: Control the direction of the light with grids. This creates a more focused light beam, ideal for highlighting specific parts of your subject or creating a dramatic effect.

Practice and Experimentation

Shoot in Different Environments: Practice in different lighting conditions and with different subjects to get a feel for how the flash behaves.
Experiment with Angles: Try different angles. Experiment with the angle of the flash relative to your subject and the background. This can dramatically change the look of your photos.
Practice with Multiple Flashes: If you have access to additional flashes, try setting up a multi-flash setup to create complex lighting scenarios.

Conclusion: Is the YN968EX-RT Right for You?

So, is the Yongnuo YN968EX-RT flash right for you, guys? The answer is likely yes, especially if you're looking for a powerful, feature-rich, and affordable speedlight. Its compatibility with the Canon E-TTL / E-TTL II system, the built-in radio receiver, and the LED video light make it a versatile tool for various photographic endeavors. It strikes an excellent balance of features, performance, and value. Whether you're a beginner wanting to explore the world of flash photography or a seasoned pro looking for a reliable backup or a budget-friendly option, the YN968EX-RT is definitely worth considering. With its ease of use, extensive feature set, and solid build quality, the YN968EX-RT is a worthwhile addition to any photographer's gear bag. Remember to experiment with different settings, angles, and accessories to find your own style and create stunning images! Happy shooting, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! Good luck, and keep clicking!