D-Lux 8: troubleshooting a grayed-out flash option

[prymsnap]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

I'm really loving my new D-Lux 8 but recently discovered a quirk. The three flash modes under the Flash Settings menu include Automatic Flash Activation, On, and Slow Sync. I can select On or Slow Sync, but the Auto option (at the top of the submenu) is grayed out. Truth is, I can't remember the last time I used an auto-flash mode on any of my cameras. But according to Page 118 of the D-Lux 8 manual, this option is the default and should available. I've tried every scene mode and any number of other combinations of settings, but cannot "un-gray" the auto option. The only thing I haven't tried yet is resetting the camera to factory defaults (which I'd like to avoid, but will do so of there's no other logical strategy). 

Any suggestions about what might be causing this issue? Thanks in advance.

Welcome, dear visitor! As registered member you'd see an image here…

Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members!

[Advertisement]

The Leica Q3 is available for pre-order at B&H Photo Video and Adorama

[Rickyfizz70]

I have the same problem.I tried every setting in the manual and even beyond. Setting to manual the flash setting completely greyed out although the flash fired when taking a picture.

Maybe the flash is simply broken?

[prymsnap]

Update:I spoke with a very helpful person via Leica's customer service phone number. Turns out that the auto setting (icon with letter "A" and lightning bolt) isn't directly selectable. It is, however, invoked when the camera is set to full auto mode (not "P" mode). Once you're in full auto, the icon shows up when you're composing your shot, in the upper row of status icons. I mentioned to the CS person that the manual seems to imply that one can directly select the auto flash option and he agreed that it's all a bit vague. But the bottom line is that my flash is fine.

[Rickyfizz70]

Thank you for your message. I was able to reproduce the behavior in fully automatic mode (Icon with letter "A" and flash symbol) 

What I don't understand is that according to the manual on page 116, the automatic mode should also be available with aperture priority and in manual mode. But there is only the flash symbol without A displayed IMO then is only the manual flash active and not TTL

I have now also written to Leica Support and am curious to see what they say😁

Edited December 29, 2024 by Rickyfizz70

[prymsnap]

I agree: the manual specifically mentions the option being available in aperture priority and manual mode. I pointed out the specific paragraph in the manual to the CS rep...but who knows if this apparent discrepancy will be addressed in a later version of the online manual. While I'm unlikely to let the camera decide whether or not the flash fires, I wanted to make sure there was nothing malfunctioning in the camera or flash. In other words, I probably would never use that option, but if it's supposed to be there, I want it to be there 😁.

[Rickyfizz70]

vor 10 Minuten schrieb prymsnap:

… In other words, I probably would never use that option, but if it's supposed to be there, I want it to be there 😁.

There is nothing more to add to that 😁👍

I keep you updated

[pixeljohn22]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

Hi, I'm experiencing the same issue and behavior. Any response from your inquiry? Thank you.

[prymsnap]

5 minutes ago, pixeljohn22 said:

Hi, I'm experiencing the same issue and behavior. Any response from your inquiry? Thank you.

The only response I've gotten so far was during the phone convo I mentioned earlier, which was pretty unclear. Basically, the rep told me that the flash behavior I described was normal, albeit contrary to what the user manual outlined. A head-scratcher for sure.

[pixeljohn22]

Yes it is. Thanks again.