Originally Posted by Ehcalum
Personally, I'd stay away from the 430EZ, though. The 430EZ goes to sleep after 90 seconds of inactivity, and you must go over to the flash and either hit the test fire button or else turn the unit on/off for it to work off-camera again. It's a decent flash to learn with, however, once you get more flashes (and are taking the time to adjust them throughout the shoot), the sleep function can get rather annoying.
good call on the gels. I over looked this because I have a set I used for motion picture, that I was just going to cut to size. But if they make ones that fit specifically on the flash, that might be something to look in to. But then again, I might be going the Nikon SB 24 route.
Sandbag......I should've known that one too. Thanks!
Are there any other flashes you can recommend other than the Nikon SB24-28's and the Vivitar 285HV's?
I was talking to a worker at a local camera store. He suggested the Sunpak PZ-4000 or something similar.
Just weighing my options while I wait for Ebay auctions.
Not really. I've heard good things about many of the Nikon flashes (SB-24, SB25, SB-26, SB-27, SB-28, SB-28DX, SB-80DX, SB-800, SB-900), though, I cannot attest to their advantages or disadvantages because I've never owned one. I've bid on several on ebay, though...
You might want to check out this flash comparison chart. I've found it quite helpful at times. It certainly isn't all-inclusive, but it's a great starting point when considering a new flash.
Thanks for the chart Sean. I went to a local store, and was able to try out a Nikon SB-25. I'm guessing the 24 is very similar. It is a very nice and easy to adjust flash. I think this is the route I'm going for sure.
I also saw some flash accessories froma brand named HONL. They had flags, grids, snoots, gels, etc all made for speedlites. very cool, although I think more money than I'd want to spend. I'm going to try and make some of thsoe things myself.
Do you ahve a inexpensive grid you can recommend?
Actually, yes. SaxonPC grids in foam housing are, in my opinion, better accessories (as far as grids are concerned) than the Honl grids. The SaxonPC grids fit better, and you can buy a whole set for a little bit more than the cost of 1 Honl grid and the speed strap. I bought the 1/8" Honl and was disappointed by the rather large light spread. That's why I love the 10 degree SaxonPC grid--much tighter.
If you want, you can buy just a couple of the grids--that would be significantly cheaper than the Honl grid and speed strap. Keep in mind they do sell Honl grid and strap knock-offs on ebay just in case you didn't want to go the SaxonPC route and don't mind supporting the little Chinese guy.
I agree - I like a lot of the Honl stuff, but the grids are both disappointing and HEAVY (at least that's what I've found)... not to mention sort of cumbersome.
The Vivitar, when purchased new. should come with the PC-1 Sync Cord (if I remember correctly). By the way--why would you try triggering the flash by anything but the hotshoe when it's on camera?
Great Idea!! also helps if you get thirsty!!.....[]
Sean, You point at some really great products. I wonder if there is a way to get a list of links together for strobist gear and accessories here on the-digital-picture forum.
I like photogels.com. Didn't know they existed. I've been ordering sheets from Mpex. I've got enough gel for my lifetime!! [
I had just a minute before heading out the door for a cookout--but wanted to say I think that is a good idea. I'll try to compile a list of useful strobist tools and accessories (as well as DIY stuff) this weekend if I have time. We'll start a thread with the links. Then as people find more things, then I can simply add to the original thread. Think that'll work?
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