macro ring flash

chrismoore

Hi, I was wondering from the experienced macro shooters if you use a ring flash or just regular off camera flash. I read in some places that the ring flash causes problems with glare and improper backlighting, but other places says it is very helpful. Specifically I came across this product on Amazon, which got mixed reviews, but is very inexpensive compared with other similar products.
Thanks for your insight.

rpcrowe

I am not a great fan of ringflash
I use a Siegelite articulating flash bracket which is usually available, used, on eBay for less than $20. I light my macros using a standard Canon 550EX flash with an off-camera cord. I modify the flash with a Lumiquest mini softbox. Chinese knock-offs of the Lumiquest are available for about $5 on ebay. Not counting the flash and off-camera cord, you can get into macro lighting for usually under $30 and frequently for a lot less.

Here is an auction which includes both a Siegelite and a Stroboflash bracket which has no bids and has started at 98 cents. I don't know how much this combination will sell for but, you can most often find the Siegelite alone for a low price.

http://cgi.ebay.com/StroboFlash-Flash-Bracket-Siegelite-Morris-Cords-lot-NR_W0QQitemZ250486139143QQcmdZViewItemQQptZCamera_Flash_Accessories?hash=item3a52232907&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14

ziggy53

Ring flash can work for some subjects, but it tends to be pretty flat lighting (except for the advanced ring lights that allow ratio lighting). It would be very appropriate for a subject that is recessed, which is why some dentists and doctors use a ring light for medical photography.

Also look at what our Lord Vetinari uses:

http://www.dgrin.com/showpost.php?p=139357&postcount=1
http://www.dgrin.com/showpost.php?p=579810&postcount=1