about flashes...

rosselliot · October 21, 2006

if there is a thread about this under the search option when you type in FLASH , I couldn't find what I was looking for...

either way, what's the best flash?

preferably not too expensive, as I'm working toward other things at the moment, like a macro lens, walk around camera, and camcorder.

I was thinking of a ring flash? can you use that at events and stuff? I've seen few examples other than macro where this flash comes in handy?! what about portraits and stuff?

if not one of those, what's the best brand of flashes that you've run across? what's the best all around great flash you own or want?

I'd appreciate any input! thanks y'all!!!

- rE

Art Scott · October 21, 2006

rosselliot wrote:

if there is a thread about this under the search option when you type in FLASH , I couldn't find what I was looking for...

either way, what's the best flash?

That is very subjective and your individual needs need to be factored in.... Depends on what your needs are......Sigma makes great flashes as does Sunpak, Metz, of course all the camera mfg'ing companies make their own flash units also - normally at a very premium price........

I love my Sunpak 622 pro's....they are big (potatoe Masher styled) handle flashes..but pack as much punch as some lower end studio flash units.
I also have worked for many years with Vivatar 285HV's....the vivatar 283 was a standard for the photojournalist and wedding photog for years and years...same as 285 but with out the zoom head.....

I have been scoffed at for using Sunpak by those that purchase only Metz...both great flashes but the Sunpaks are way less expensive.

I use the Sunpaks because if I need quick studio lighting at a wedding or location portrait shoot...well they run great on batteries (Quantum ) so I can throw them into a back pack and jump on my bike {GS850GLD} and head for the shoot....try that with a set of actual studio lights...

I also use them for shooting weddings and have a rig with quik release to attach to my stroboframe flash bracket...

If I do not need the big gun(s) then I use my Minolta 5600HS (since Vivatar has quit making the 285HV....then again I am partial to not shooting in full auto-program modes....I prefer to shoot in either manual or aperature priority mode (and use a handheld flash meter).....

preferably not too expensive, as I'm working toward other things at the moment, like a macro lens, walk around camera, and camcorder.

I was thinking of a ring flash? can you use that at events and stuff? I've seen few examples other than macro where this flash comes in handy?! what about portraits and stuff?

Depends on the event.... if I can I try to shoot all event photos without flash....now events like weddings and that type I usually use either my Minolta 5600HS or If i want to shoot in manual mode only then a Sunpak 622....I don't see using a ring flash for anythng besides macro work....

Concerts and such, it is my opinon, should be shot for the asethic effect of the stage lighting ...so no flash....Dance concerts..the same and also for the safety of the dancers....

I had to grab a tiny dancer at a rehearsal when mom poped her with a flash staight into her tiny eyes and she almost danced into the orchestra pit that would have been about a 6 foot drop unless she lnaded on a musician or instrument.....

if not one of those, what's the best brand of flashes that you've run across?
see above comments

what's the best all around great flash you own or want?
I'll be getting some new Sunpaks in the near future..it is about time to replace mine as they are almost off the books and tax deductions are always needed:D

I have been using the same Quantum batteries for over 10 yrs and just keep replacing the rechargable batteries ever 3 or 4 years (when they no longer want to hold a charge)........

I'd appreciate any input! thanks y'all!!!

- rE

Remember: You cannot be over powered on lighting...it can always be turned down....However you can (and wil be at some point) UNDER powered and then your S.O.L. and just have to live with the results......

hope this helps...good luck.

chrisjlee · October 21, 2006

You've got questions, i've got answers
Just go with the camera brand's flash. You can also go with an off brand flash like the super sigma 500 dg. Those are less expensive than the canon's 580ex or the other brands SB (whatever number it is; I don't know nikon).

With ringflashes:: I would avoid that for events. If you're doing macro work go for it. People have used the ring flash for portraits but its not really that awesome. Your source of light is much smaller than your subject. Macro ringlights are made for close up work.

Alienbee has ringflashes coming out that are affordable & runs about 300-500 bucks. They should be available by the end of october or early november (according Paul C. Buff on a studiolighting.net podcast). EDIT: Nevermind the ringlight has been released: http://www.alienbees.com/abr800.html Costs 400 bucks. I'm drooling over it now.

about flashes...

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