UPDATE: Godox has since added the Legacy Hotshoe mode and Sekonic L-858 compatibility mode to the Canon, Nikon, and Sony models of the X3 via firmware updates. The Fujifilm, Olympus/Panasonic, and Leica models had later production dates and came packaged with these features at launch.
@@Strobepro putting legacy on "on" with mu X3 for Sony I can see all menu for manual mode but it can't fire by central pin putting on other kind of cameras (I have old XT1 for Olympus and works on every camera brand in manual mode)
@@TecnologiacreativaMario Interesting-we might have to run some tests! This might be a problem with the Sony shoe in particular. One thing we'd suggest is trying to slide the controller back and forth a few milimetres and see if that makes a difference. Depending on the make of camera you are using, the centre pin may not be properly aligned with the controller pushed all the way forward in the hotshoe.
Yes, this is a fantastic video! I have watched a bunch of videos on the X3 and this is the only one that got me on the path to syncing/pairing my flashes! THANK YOU!
Thank you for a great presentation. One thing that is missing that wasn’t mentioned is the “App” mode in in the Shoot menu. I realize you mentioned that there isn’t BT on this trigger, but the lack of the app option also removes the option of using the trigger as a “dumb” trigger. This takes away the ability to use a compatible light meter to control the lights and just have the trigger, well, trigger the lights…
The "APP" mode has been replaced with the "L-858" mode, which was a feature missing from the X3-S at launch when we made this video. The "L858" mode as well as a "legacy hotshoe" mode has now been added via a firmware update. The function was once called "APP" mode because it was necessary for integrating with the Godox A-1: a companion device for Godox's original smartphone app. The A-1 was discontinued once Godox added Bluetooth integration to the X2T. The "APP" function is now called "L-858" because of its more contemporary use with the Godox radio module for the Sekonic L-858D light meter. Anyway, that was probably more than you ever wanted to know. Godox's naming of these functions is kind of confusing without some context, so I thought I would explain it. tl;dr: Both "APP" or "L-858" where they appear will cause your controller to act like as a simple trigger that does not update power settings on your flashes. If you are missing the L-858 function on your X3, you'll just need to download the latest firmware.
@@Strobepro Thank you for the clarification. I saw the comment on app mode in another review, probably an old one. I do own L-858, so this is important to me. I need get the firmware updated and see how that goes. Appreciate your time!!
The calibration setting seems to be a necessary part of how the TCM function works. Godox could potentially allow the controller to apply different calibration settings to each group, but that would also be clunky in its own way. We agree that it's kind of cumbersome to use at the moment unless you happen to have a whole fleet of the same light.
Just picked mine up yesterday. I haven't used it yet. But one thing I can see being an issue is where the dial is. Yes.... It's on the wrong side. Didn't think about it because I haven't used it yet. Thanks for ruining my purchase. Lol. But I also assume I'll be using the touch screen more often than not. I do also have the x2t and the Flashpoint r2 pro mk2. I like them both as well. Probably didn't need to upgrade but I'm a sucker for the latest products.
have you used it yet? :D Imma return mine … it looks fantastic but the usability is worse than Xpro, and why would I pay more money for doing thins slower
What I'd be really happy to see is the trigger integrating with the camera menu (I don't know about Sony, but with Nikon it has the menu disabled) - this way we'd have the best of both worlds (the small size of the trigger itself and the full tactile controls of the camera).
Hi @rbenjamin5542, If you pull down from the top of the screen, you'll see the a submenu with a lock button. This doesn't lock the device, but it does lock your settings and prevent accidental inputs. Not sure if that's what you were looking for, but thought I should mention it anyway.
@@Strobepro thanks. I find groups turned on accediently lots of times. Needs to be able to lock screen with three second screen prees to lock and unlock.
The only thing I desire from this controller is for it to tell the (Sony) camera that a flash isn't attached to the hotshoe when enabling pause, so that I may easily view the shot preview as I adjust settings for an ambient shot, used in real estate.
When setting remote to old school decimals instead of fractions for power output. Do the decimal values show up on the screen of the strobe heads as well?
Anyone else have an issue when converting to manual from tcm and getting overexposure by an entire stop of light? My xpro-n first gen doesn’t have this issue but the x3 does.
En caso de que no esté claro... GODOX X3 TIGGER 1 Abra el godox programa G3 y cargue el version firmware 2 conecte el cable según el producto al godox x3. Tenga en cuenta que está apagado 3 mantenga presionado el botón de control giratorio durante unos segundos hasta que aparezca la palabra actualización en idioma chino en el Godox X3. presiona Ir para actualizar en tu computadora, espera 15 segundos 4 Cuando la barra de progreso en verde se detenga y la ventana muy difícil de leer que está sobre ella indique que la actualización se completó, haz clic en "Salir" Finalmente y listo. Desenchufe el cable ok
I have a question about godox triggers.. if i have a Godox AD300 for Nikon, can i shoot it from a Sony camera if im using the Sony Trigger? I mean does the Godox Trigger are Cross Compatible?
Hi @tanner.quintero, The triggers are generally cross-compatible, but you will lose access to advanced features like TTL and HSS if your controller is mounted on a incompatible camera body. Flashes can still be fired within your camera's flash sync speed and in manual mode via the centre-pin connection. There is one thing you'll have to be careful of with Sony cameras and Sony-compatible devices specifically. Canon, Nikon, Fuji, Olympus, etc. all use variations of a standard hotshoe design where the locking pin is in a fixed position. Sony's locking pins and divots are in a different position. For that reason, a Sony trigger can't be locked correctly on a non-Sony camera. Similarly, incompatible controllers can't be locked properly on a Sony camera. So whenever there is a mismatched Sony trigger or camera, the trigger can slide from the hotshoe rather easily.
Great video! I am new to Godox, it seems a lot less complicated than Canon RT setup, with this trigger, anyway, the reason I went this route is that I can have a single controller for studio heads/monolights and flashguns, but I was just wondering if you can mix and match, say an AD400 Pro and V1 Pro's as accent/fill light(s)?
Hello everyone, I recently received the GODOX X3 Nano in the Nikon version. Setup was very quick thanks to the great video. Now I have a phenomenon and don't know whether it's a bug or a feature. With the rotary wheel on the side I can only select but not scroll. This means that it is not possible to adjust the flash output. Has anyone experienced something similar or can help if necessary. Thanks in advance. Hint: Firmware is v1.06
Hi @MarTina-1, This is not something we've been able to replicate with our unit. You may actually have a hardware problem there. If you purchased from us, get in touch, and we'll assist you with a replacement.
Sorry, but there’s not a thing about that that would improve anything I do in any way. The internal battery is just something else to worry about… touchscreens are also often problematic, as we all know. All that sync stuff is just an extra layer of complexity too - with the xpro I currently use, I switch on and it works nearly every time.
Great information. When I use my Sekonic Speedmaster L-858-U I noticed I’m unable to adjust my lights power levels remotely. I have to adjust the power levels through the X3. Is there another way to control the power (AD600, 200 and 860ll) remotely?
Hi Edward, If you are have the Godox module for your Sekonic L-858, you can follow the instructions in Sekonic's video here: czcams.com/video/k6McgivGK7E/video.htmlsi=aDairTMg10Tpc6CN The one notable difference with the X3 (compared to the XPro controller that is shown) is that you won't see "APP" setting in the "SHOOT" menu. Instead, there is a dedicated "L-858" setting. However, this feature was not available at launch for the Canon, Nikon, and Sony models, and it was just added to those models in a very recent firmware update. So if you don't see the setting available, you'll have to download the latest firmware package from Godox's website. Hope that helps!
Question: How does the Canon version of the X3 interface with the new Canon ‘smart’ connector hot shoe design of the R6mkII and other cameras? Does it use the smart connector or just the five contacts of the hot shoe? Can GODOX flash functions be controlled from the camera menu as with the newer EL-1 / EL-5 / EL-10 flashes with the STE-10 controller in the hot shoe?
Hi @TeddyCavachon, The Canon version of the X3 uses Canon's classic hotshoe. The X3 supports cross-talk with any compatible hotshoe type. As long as your camera's hotshoe is compatible, you can control your flash groups from the camera menu if that is your preference. Here is a summary of Canon's FOUR current hotshoe types (get it together, Canon): Fully compatible: -Classic E-TTL hotshoe (5D Mark IV, 7D, etc.) -Combination hotshoe such as on the EOS R6 Mark II -Neutered hotshoe with no centre pin such as on the Rebel T7 Requires Canon AD-E1 Adapter -Multi-function shoe without the classic E-TTL pins, such as that found on the EOS R50
@@Strobepro Thanks for your reply. I started using dual flash back in 1972 assisting top wedding photographer Monte Zucker who introduced the idea of triggering an off camera key light flash with fill on a bracket over the camera. I’ve used that technique ever since, in the 1970s - 2004 with Vivitar flashes and Wein photocells starting in digital in 2000 with a Kodak DC290 which had a PC connector when I also purchased the Stroboframe Camera flip bracket I still use. In 2004 I got my first DSLR, a 20D and a pair of the then new 580EX flashes posting tutorials on how to use them on photo forums and my web site. I still use the 580ex flashes with my 50D but recently bought a pair of R6mkII bodies they are not compatible with so I’m happy to hear the X3 will work on them with the Godox flashes.
I have one with firmware version 1.06 for Nikon. Legacy mode is missing. I badly needed this feature as I use it with my Sekonic L858 with Godox Transmitter module. In the Xpro II there is both legacy as well as Sekonic 858 modes. Missing these features here.
It is unclear when the legacy hotshoe mode will roll out in firmware updates. The Fuji version of the X3 was the latest off the production line, and it has the legacy hotshoe mode as well as the L858 compatibility mode. The Canon, Nikon, and Sony models don't have it yet. It seems that firmware is still being tweaked and the later models are benefiting from the most current changes. We're guessing Godox will release a unified update for all X3 models in the near future.
Great information. If you have Sony a9iii do you need to put the trigger in HSS to use higher shutter speeds or can you dial in the first curtain sync?
We did have an A9iii in the shop for testing recently. Unfortunately, the news isn't great at present. It seems HSS needs to be enabled in order to exceed 1/250s. The controller is locking the shutter speed presumably because it doesn't yet know how to distinguish between the A9iii and the rest of Sony's ILC lineup. We hope Godox will address this in a firmware update, but we can't say when/if that will happen. This is speculation, but we could at least see the implementation of the "Legacy Hotshoe" mode in the near future. This feature was mentioned in Godox's PDF manuals for the X3, but it was not included at launch for some reason. So there's a possibility that we'll see its implementation with the first update. On Godox's other models, the Legacy Hotshoe mode causes the controller to behave as a single-pin trigger. With only the centre pin active, the controller will not be able to lock your shutter. The only caveat is that single pin firing will also prohibit TTL.
I have one but for some reason my images come out over saturated and i don’t understand why. When i switch back to my old trigger everything is perfect but this new x3 makes everything appear Orangish. Super weird
The culprit here is probably auto white balance. AWB can give different results depending on the camera/controller combination. Sometimes, it has to to do with how the controller is reverse engineered to work with specific flash systems. If you are noticing a difference from one controller to another, that would be kind of strange unless one controller wasn't fully compatible (for example, a canon compatible controller on a Nikon camera body). The single pin or "legacy hotshoe" modes present in some of these controllers is another thing that might cause the camera to select a different white balance. Another possibility is that you have inadvertently switched into high speed sync (HSS). We've noticed that HSS flashes tend to cause the camera to select a cooler white balance when AWB is left enabled, resulting in images that are rendered warmer. In any case, the solution is to set a manual white balance for your flash either in camera or in post. If you compare the files where you are seeing the difference, you should see that two different white balances were selected.
This is my first time using trigger, why when I turn on my Godox x3, the screen/lens immediately turns bright as if you were using ISO 6400, is that normal? I just want the screen, exposure, speed as normal and to be able to judge how much light I will give to the photo object
It is most likely an exposure preview setting in your camera that is causing this. You may have the camera set to disable live exposure preview when a flash is attached. This is often useful in a dark studio environment where you don't necessarily want the camera to preview your ambient exposure (it's hard to frame things when your viewfinder is completely black).
No compatibility issues there! The A7IV has been fully supported on the platform for a while, and any Godox flash that uses the 2.4GHz X-series radio system (including the V860iii) is compatible with the X3-S.
I am using the AD 100 Pro with the Fujifilm version of this trigger (X3F). In the custom setting there is no Sync menu. How do I adjust rear curtain/front curtain/HSS without that? Thanks!
On the Fuji system, those settings can only be adjusted through the camera menu. You'll be looking for your flash function settings. Once in there, you'll probably also notice a flash mode setting. Make sure to leave this on TTL regardless of whether you want to use your flashes in TTL or manual-it just enables full communication with the Godox controller. Under Sync, you can select first curtain, second curtain, or "FP". Use FP for HSS. With that set, your flashes will fire in first curtain when you are below your flash sync speed, and automatically switch to HSS when you roll over your flash sync speed. Hope that helps!
@@Strobepro I just tried it, and it looks like that means that this new unit will only allow me to use my flash and camera combination in TTL if I want HSS, which I never use because I don't like it. Maybe I need to stick with the older units until this gets changed. Thanks!
@@Strobepro Actually, I just set it back to manual mode and the HSS stayed on. So maybe I can use manual mode and HSS with my X-H2S and this trigger. Is that what you were getting at? Thanks again?
Yes, it is possible! However, you can only apply a single zoom setting to all groups on the channel. If you want zoom control on individual groups, the XPro II controller supports that feature. See 26:15 for a complete explanation of zoom settings on the X3.
Hey @metalhead423, The 1.06 displayed on our early unit may have been meant for internal reference, as the firmware does go through several iteration changes during production. We're probably running the same the firmware, just with different labels. Godox's release firmware is typically labelled 1.0 or 1.00. There definitely has not been any updates to the X3 since release at the time of this writing.
There is an optional Godox radio module that you can purchase for the Sekonic L858-D. The L858-D compatibility mode is currently a planned feature for the X3. Once the function is added via firmware, you'll find an "L-858D" setting in the menu under the "Shoot" sub-heading. This function is already available on the XPRO-II, so we're not sure why it was excluded from the X3 at the time of release. It's also worth mentioning that the "APP" function found on the X2T and original XPRO has the same functionality. With either "L-858D" or "APP" enabled, your controller becomes a simple trigger that does not update power settings on any of your groups. This allows you to configure power settings on the L-858D without needing to worry about your controller overwriting them. Hope that helps!
Hi @shandre14, The X3 C is only natively compatible with Godox flashes. Canon's OEM flashes can be adapted to Godox's radio system, but you would need to purchase the Godox X1R-C receiver.
Godox states that the battery will give you around 6,600 shots per charge, and it has a standby time of approximately 7 days. Charge before your day of shooting, and battery life shouldn't be a concern.
Godox does have a receiver designed for Sony flashes: the X1R-S. We've never tested the HVLF20M with the X1R-S, and it's unclear if it is compatible, but that's probably your best shot.
Only the X3 C (Canon) can enable rear curtain sync, but stick with me to the end. Canon's system is unique in that flash accessories can cross-talk with the camera, so if you enable 2nd curtain on the controller, you'll also find it enabled in the camera menu (and vice-versa). On all other systems, first/second curtain sync can only be managed on the camera side. If you find your flash function settings in your camera menu, you should be able to enable rear curtain sync there.
ATG/Godox just put Profoto/Canon/Nikon/Sony/Olympus/Interfit/Paul Buff/Pocket Wizard into the history books ATG/Godox newer model will have Bluetooth & battery changeable by 2027
UPDATE: Godox has since added the Legacy Hotshoe mode and Sekonic L-858 compatibility mode to the Canon, Nikon, and Sony models of the X3 via firmware updates. The Fujifilm, Olympus/Panasonic, and Leica models had later production dates and came packaged with these features at launch.
That is really great. I was waiting for this.
I updated my X3s, I can see Legacy Hotshoe and put on "ON" but seams not working, I'm sad!
@@TecnologiacreativaMario Can you tell us a bit more about what you observed when the legacy hotshoe mode was enabled?
@@Strobepro putting legacy on "on" with mu X3 for Sony I can see all menu for manual mode but it can't fire by central pin putting on other kind of cameras (I have old XT1 for Olympus and works on every camera brand in manual mode)
@@TecnologiacreativaMario Interesting-we might have to run some tests! This might be a problem with the Sony shoe in particular. One thing we'd suggest is trying to slide the controller back and forth a few milimetres and see if that makes a difference. Depending on the make of camera you are using, the centre pin may not be properly aligned with the controller pushed all the way forward in the hotshoe.
Yes, this is a fantastic video! I have watched a bunch of videos on the X3 and this is the only one that got me on the path to syncing/pairing my flashes! THANK YOU!
Fantastic video Jessie! THANK YOU!!!!!
Thank you for a great presentation. One thing that is missing that wasn’t mentioned is the “App” mode in in the Shoot menu. I realize you mentioned that there isn’t BT on this trigger, but the lack of the app option also removes the option of using the trigger as a “dumb” trigger. This takes away the ability to use a compatible light meter to control the lights and just have the trigger, well, trigger the lights…
The "APP" mode has been replaced with the "L-858" mode, which was a feature missing from the X3-S at launch when we made this video. The "L858" mode as well as a "legacy hotshoe" mode has now been added via a firmware update.
The function was once called "APP" mode because it was necessary for integrating with the Godox A-1: a companion device for Godox's original smartphone app. The A-1 was discontinued once Godox added Bluetooth integration to the X2T. The "APP" function is now called "L-858" because of its more contemporary use with the Godox radio module for the Sekonic L-858D light meter. Anyway, that was probably more than you ever wanted to know. Godox's naming of these functions is kind of confusing without some context, so I thought I would explain it.
tl;dr: Both "APP" or "L-858" where they appear will cause your controller to act like as a simple trigger that does not update power settings on your flashes. If you are missing the L-858 function on your X3, you'll just need to download the latest firmware.
@@Strobepro Thank you for the clarification. I saw the comment on app mode in another review, probably an old one. I do own L-858, so this is important to me. I need get the firmware updated and see how that goes. Appreciate your time!!
Hopefully in a firmware update they change TCM control to each group to allow for different lights and less menu diving.
The calibration setting seems to be a necessary part of how the TCM function works. Godox could potentially allow the controller to apply different calibration settings to each group, but that would also be clunky in its own way. We agree that it's kind of cumbersome to use at the moment unless you happen to have a whole fleet of the same light.
Just picked mine up yesterday. I haven't used it yet. But one thing I can see being an issue is where the dial is. Yes.... It's on the wrong side. Didn't think about it because I haven't used it yet. Thanks for ruining my purchase. Lol. But I also assume I'll be using the touch screen more often than not. I do also have the x2t and the Flashpoint r2 pro mk2. I like them both as well. Probably didn't need to upgrade but I'm a sucker for the latest products.
have you used it yet? :D Imma return mine … it looks fantastic but the usability is worse than Xpro, and why would I pay more money for doing thins slower
Thanks just got mine last night very helpful
Good stuff man.. thanks peeps..
What I'd be really happy to see is the trigger integrating with the camera menu (I don't know about Sony, but with Nikon it has the menu disabled) - this way we'd have the best of both worlds (the small size of the trigger itself and the full tactile controls of the camera).
You are not the only one wishing this happens.
Just got mines yesterday. Great video
Great video.... Nano screen need a lock feature !
Hi @rbenjamin5542,
If you pull down from the top of the screen, you'll see the a submenu with a lock button. This doesn't lock the device, but it does lock your settings and prevent accidental inputs. Not sure if that's what you were looking for, but thought I should mention it anyway.
@@Strobepro thanks. I find groups turned on accediently lots of times. Needs to be able to lock screen with three second screen prees to lock and unlock.
Thank you!
The only thing I desire from this controller is for it to tell the (Sony) camera that a flash isn't attached to the hotshoe when enabling pause, so that I may easily view the shot preview as I adjust settings for an ambient shot, used in real estate.
When setting remote to old school decimals instead of fractions for power output. Do the decimal values show up on the screen of the strobe heads as well?
You are the best thank you
Anyone else have an issue when converting to manual from tcm and getting overexposure by an entire stop of light? My xpro-n first gen doesn’t have this issue but the x3 does.
En caso de que no esté claro... GODOX X3 TIGGER
1 Abra el godox programa G3 y cargue el version firmware
2 conecte el cable según el producto al godox x3. Tenga en cuenta que está apagado
3 mantenga presionado el botón de control giratorio durante unos segundos hasta que
aparezca la palabra actualización en idioma chino en el Godox X3.
presiona Ir para actualizar en tu computadora, espera 15 segundos
4 Cuando la barra de progreso en verde se detenga y la ventana muy difícil de leer
que está sobre ella indique que la actualización se completó, haz clic en "Salir"
Finalmente y listo.
Desenchufe el cable ok
It's too bad that they didn't release firmware updates for older Godox flashes the same time or soon after this remote was released.
I have a question about godox triggers.. if i have a Godox AD300 for Nikon, can i shoot it from a Sony camera if im using the Sony Trigger? I mean does the Godox Trigger are Cross Compatible?
Hi @tanner.quintero,
The triggers are generally cross-compatible, but you will lose access to advanced features like TTL and HSS if your controller is mounted on a incompatible camera body. Flashes can still be fired within your camera's flash sync speed and in manual mode via the centre-pin connection.
There is one thing you'll have to be careful of with Sony cameras and Sony-compatible devices specifically. Canon, Nikon, Fuji, Olympus, etc. all use variations of a standard hotshoe design where the locking pin is in a fixed position. Sony's locking pins and divots are in a different position. For that reason, a Sony trigger can't be locked correctly on a non-Sony camera. Similarly, incompatible controllers can't be locked properly on a Sony camera. So whenever there is a mismatched Sony trigger or camera, the trigger can slide from the hotshoe rather easily.
Great video!
I am new to Godox, it seems a lot less complicated than Canon RT setup, with this trigger, anyway, the reason I went this route is that I can have a single controller for studio heads/monolights and flashguns, but I was just wondering if you can mix and match, say an AD400 Pro and V1 Pro's as accent/fill light(s)?
Yes, you can! Godox's current speedlites and strobes are all on the same radio system.
Thanks a lot
Hello everyone, I recently received the GODOX X3 Nano in the Nikon version. Setup was very quick thanks to the great video. Now I have a phenomenon and don't know whether it's a bug or a feature. With the rotary wheel on the side I can only select but not scroll. This means that it is not possible to adjust the flash output. Has anyone experienced something similar or can help if necessary. Thanks in advance. Hint: Firmware is v1.06
Hi @MarTina-1,
This is not something we've been able to replicate with our unit. You may actually have a hardware problem there. If you purchased from us, get in touch, and we'll assist you with a replacement.
Sorry, but there’s not a thing about that that would improve anything I do in any way. The internal battery is just something else to worry about… touchscreens are also often problematic, as we all know. All that sync stuff is just an extra layer of complexity too - with the xpro I currently use, I switch on and it works nearly every time.
It's not for everyone. Godox currently has three controller options, each made with slightly different priorities in mind.
Great information. When I use my Sekonic Speedmaster L-858-U I noticed I’m unable to adjust my lights power levels remotely. I have to adjust the power levels through the X3. Is there another way to control the power (AD600, 200 and 860ll) remotely?
Hi Edward,
If you are have the Godox module for your Sekonic L-858, you can follow the instructions in Sekonic's video here:
czcams.com/video/k6McgivGK7E/video.htmlsi=aDairTMg10Tpc6CN
The one notable difference with the X3 (compared to the XPro controller that is shown) is that you won't see "APP" setting in the "SHOOT" menu. Instead, there is a dedicated "L-858" setting. However, this feature was not available at launch for the Canon, Nikon, and Sony models, and it was just added to those models in a very recent firmware update. So if you don't see the setting available, you'll have to download the latest firmware package from Godox's website. Hope that helps!
Question: How does the Canon version of the X3 interface with the new Canon ‘smart’ connector hot shoe design of the R6mkII and other cameras?
Does it use the smart connector or just the five contacts of the hot shoe?
Can GODOX flash functions be controlled from the camera menu as with the newer EL-1 / EL-5 / EL-10 flashes with the STE-10 controller in the hot shoe?
Hi @TeddyCavachon,
The Canon version of the X3 uses Canon's classic hotshoe. The X3 supports cross-talk with any compatible hotshoe type. As long as your camera's hotshoe is compatible, you can control your flash groups from the camera menu if that is your preference. Here is a summary of Canon's FOUR current hotshoe types (get it together, Canon):
Fully compatible:
-Classic E-TTL hotshoe (5D Mark IV, 7D, etc.)
-Combination hotshoe such as on the EOS R6 Mark II
-Neutered hotshoe with no centre pin such as on the Rebel T7
Requires Canon AD-E1 Adapter
-Multi-function shoe without the classic E-TTL pins, such as that found on the EOS R50
@@Strobepro Thanks for your reply. I started using dual flash back in 1972 assisting top wedding photographer Monte Zucker who introduced the idea of triggering an off camera key light flash with fill on a bracket over the camera. I’ve used that technique ever since, in the 1970s - 2004 with Vivitar flashes and Wein photocells starting in digital in 2000 with a Kodak DC290 which had a PC connector when I also purchased the Stroboframe Camera flip bracket I still use.
In 2004 I got my first DSLR, a 20D and a pair of the then new 580EX flashes posting tutorials on how to use them on photo forums and my web site. I still use the 580ex flashes with my 50D but recently bought a pair of R6mkII bodies they are not compatible with so I’m happy to hear the X3 will work on them with the Godox flashes.
I have one with firmware version 1.06 for Nikon. Legacy mode is missing. I badly needed this feature as I use it with my Sekonic L858 with Godox Transmitter module. In the Xpro II there is both legacy as well as Sekonic 858 modes. Missing these features here.
It is unclear when the legacy hotshoe mode will roll out in firmware updates. The Fuji version of the X3 was the latest off the production line, and it has the legacy hotshoe mode as well as the L858 compatibility mode. The Canon, Nikon, and Sony models don't have it yet. It seems that firmware is still being tweaked and the later models are benefiting from the most current changes. We're guessing Godox will release a unified update for all X3 models in the near future.
Great information. If you have Sony a9iii do you need to put the trigger in HSS to use higher shutter speeds or can you dial in the first curtain sync?
We did have an A9iii in the shop for testing recently. Unfortunately, the news isn't great at present. It seems HSS needs to be enabled in order to exceed 1/250s. The controller is locking the shutter speed presumably because it doesn't yet know how to distinguish between the A9iii and the rest of Sony's ILC lineup. We hope Godox will address this in a firmware update, but we can't say when/if that will happen.
This is speculation, but we could at least see the implementation of the "Legacy Hotshoe" mode in the near future. This feature was mentioned in Godox's PDF manuals for the X3, but it was not included at launch for some reason. So there's a possibility that we'll see its implementation with the first update.
On Godox's other models, the Legacy Hotshoe mode causes the controller to behave as a single-pin trigger. With only the centre pin active, the controller will not be able to lock your shutter. The only caveat is that single pin firing will also prohibit TTL.
Thank you for all the details. I do won the x3 and thought I was doing something wrong or a firmware upgrade was need. Thanks a million. 🙏@@Strobepro
I have one but for some reason my images come out over saturated and i don’t understand why. When i switch back to my old trigger everything is perfect but this new x3 makes everything appear Orangish. Super weird
The culprit here is probably auto white balance. AWB can give different results depending on the camera/controller combination. Sometimes, it has to to do with how the controller is reverse engineered to work with specific flash systems.
If you are noticing a difference from one controller to another, that would be kind of strange unless one controller wasn't fully compatible (for example, a canon compatible controller on a Nikon camera body). The single pin or "legacy hotshoe" modes present in some of these controllers is another thing that might cause the camera to select a different white balance.
Another possibility is that you have inadvertently switched into high speed sync (HSS). We've noticed that HSS flashes tend to cause the camera to select a cooler white balance when AWB is left enabled, resulting in images that are rendered warmer.
In any case, the solution is to set a manual white balance for your flash either in camera or in post. If you compare the files where you are seeing the difference, you should see that two different white balances were selected.
This is my first time using trigger, why when I turn on my Godox x3, the screen/lens immediately turns bright as if you were using ISO 6400, is that normal? I just want the screen, exposure, speed as normal and to be able to judge how much light I will give to the photo object
It is most likely an exposure preview setting in your camera that is causing this. You may have the camera set to disable live exposure preview when a flash is attached. This is often useful in a dark studio environment where you don't necessarily want the camera to preview your ambient exposure (it's hard to frame things when your viewfinder is completely black).
I want to use godox x3-s with the 860iii on a sony a7iv but not sure about the compatibility
No compatibility issues there! The A7IV has been fully supported on the platform for a while, and any Godox flash that uses the 2.4GHz X-series radio system (including the V860iii) is compatible with the X3-S.
I am using the AD 100 Pro with the Fujifilm version of this trigger (X3F). In the custom setting there is no Sync menu. How do I adjust rear curtain/front curtain/HSS without that? Thanks!
On the Fuji system, those settings can only be adjusted through the camera menu. You'll be looking for your flash function settings.
Once in there, you'll probably also notice a flash mode setting. Make sure to leave this on TTL regardless of whether you want to use your flashes in TTL or manual-it just enables full communication with the Godox controller. Under Sync, you can select first curtain, second curtain, or "FP". Use FP for HSS. With that set, your flashes will fire in first curtain when you are below your flash sync speed, and automatically switch to HSS when you roll over your flash sync speed. Hope that helps!
@@Strobepro I just tried it, and it looks like that means that this new unit will only allow me to use my flash and camera combination in TTL if I want HSS, which I never use because I don't like it. Maybe I need to stick with the older units until this gets changed. Thanks!
@@Strobepro Actually, I just set it back to manual mode and the HSS stayed on. So maybe I can use manual mode and HSS with my X-H2S and this trigger. Is that what you were getting at? Thanks again?
Hi sorry maybe missed on the video… is it possible to change a flash zoom via x3 trigger?
Yes, it is possible! However, you can only apply a single zoom setting to all groups on the channel. If you want zoom control on individual groups, the XPro II controller supports that feature. See 26:15 for a complete explanation of zoom settings on the X3.
Mine has firmware version 1.00 and I can not find version 1.06 for my X3-S. Godox website does not list any firmware updates on their page. Any help?
Hey @metalhead423,
The 1.06 displayed on our early unit may have been meant for internal reference, as the firmware does go through several iteration changes during production. We're probably running the same the firmware, just with different labels. Godox's release firmware is typically labelled 1.0 or 1.00. There definitely has not been any updates to the X3 since release at the time of this writing.
Will this unit work with Sekonic Light Meter ? If yes Any specific Sekonic version ?
There is an optional Godox radio module that you can purchase for the Sekonic L858-D. The L858-D compatibility mode is currently a planned feature for the X3. Once the function is added via firmware, you'll find an "L-858D" setting in the menu under the "Shoot" sub-heading.
This function is already available on the XPRO-II, so we're not sure why it was excluded from the X3 at the time of release. It's also worth mentioning that the "APP" function found on the X2T and original XPRO has the same functionality. With either "L-858D" or "APP" enabled, your controller becomes a simple trigger that does not update power settings on any of your groups. This allows you to configure power settings on the L-858D without needing to worry about your controller overwriting them.
Hope that helps!
My X3 C doesnt work with my el-5 cannon speed lite on my r6 mkii body . Is that an error or is it not supported?
Hi @shandre14,
The X3 C is only natively compatible with Godox flashes. Canon's OEM flashes can be adapted to Godox's radio system, but you would need to purchase the Godox X1R-C receiver.
Did I miss the part where you said how long the battery lasts?
Godox states that the battery will give you around 6,600 shots per charge, and it has a standby time of approximately 7 days. Charge before your day of shooting, and battery life shouldn't be a concern.
@@Strobepro Thanks!
the touch screen just like go pro's
I have a Sony HVLF20M, is there a way i can trigger it with the godox x3s?
Godox does have a receiver designed for Sony flashes: the X1R-S. We've never tested the HVLF20M with the X1R-S, and it's unclear if it is compatible, but that's probably your best shot.
@@Strobepro thank you!
Is there anyway to enable rear curtain sync?
Only the X3 C (Canon) can enable rear curtain sync, but stick with me to the end. Canon's system is unique in that flash accessories can cross-talk with the camera, so if you enable 2nd curtain on the controller, you'll also find it enabled in the camera menu (and vice-versa). On all other systems, first/second curtain sync can only be managed on the camera side. If you find your flash function settings in your camera menu, you should be able to enable rear curtain sync there.
@@Strobepro thank you!
Can I control the trigger from a computer or phone ?
Bluetooth is not included on the X3. If you want to control your lights from a smartphone or tablet, go with the X2T or XProII.
ATG/Godox just put Profoto/Canon/Nikon/Sony/Olympus/Interfit/Paul Buff/Pocket Wizard into the history books
ATG/Godox newer model will have Bluetooth & battery changeable by 2027
Wonder whether TTL/HSS can work on canon R cameras🤔
We'll test that as soon as more Canon models arrive. Expecting more next week!
Both TTL and HSS work normally on my EOS-R 😊