T2i and a Metz. 70mz-5 flash, canon module..aftermarket grip. I set the camera and the flash in manual. when I actually want to take a picture, I have to press the shutter release twice.. I press it the first time and view finder goes blank.. I press the shutter release and the flash fires, pic is taken.. Exposure is great,,, but why am I having to press the shutter release twice ?

Did you forget & enable mirror lock?
That's what the behavior sounds like.

Dan

Thanks Dan !!!
Guess ya can learn something new everyday.. Had never heard of mirror lockup !! Found it in the manual, Custom Function 8,,, it was enabled.. Switched to disable and now it fires right away !! Now to decide if i want to ,keep the T2i or switch to a D7000.. buddy of mine has the d7000,, love the pics...