External flashes

[ssanders79]

I've decided not to use the popup flash for the same reasons. However, I sometimes use it as a fill flash on sunny days.

 

[YesDear]

There are only two scenarios in which I would use the popup flash on my camera. First, if it is the only way to get the shot. Harsh and all, it is better to get it than not.

Secondly, with my Nikon, I can use it as a commander for my other flashes. It fires the other ones. If I need off camera flash that is what I do because I do not have an SU-800 commander. That means nothing to non Nikon users!

 

[Steve's Girl]

I do sometimes use pop-up flash. Mostly for fill outdoors, or indoors in a pinch. When using indoors, I usually turn the flash compensation down quite and use it just to give a little light to the shadows. My exposure is typically based on the ambiant light and that way you avoid the blast of light snapshots with dark backgrounds.

Edited to add: Lumiquest makes a pop-up flash diffuser. I've never used it personally, but I think pretty highly of their products.

 

[mabas9395]

since in the right place at the right time it has its uses and it's convenient.

I think this is the key right here. It only has its uses in the right place at the right time. And unfortunately, those right places and right times are pretty rare. The problem is that the pop-up flash lacks both power and versatility. Lenses are the same way. Almost any lens can look sharp in the right conditions and settings. But if you want shots that look good in the more difficult situations, only quality glass will do.

If you like flash photography, I would keep working towards getting your external flash. In the mean time, there are several books and websites that can help you learn to use your external flash so that you'll be a pro by the time you get it.

If you haven't yet, go check out www.strobist.com, it is THE source for free information on usinging external flash, especially off-camera.

Good luck.

 

[Coach]

Just trying to get some feedback on this flash diffuser. I've been to the website, http://flashdiffuser.com/, and watched the instructional videos. It looks like it does what it's supposed to do. I was wondering if anyone out there has this and what is your opinion of it. Also, if you do use this diffuser do you have to clear or the cloud?


Thanks

 

[handicap18]

I have the clear Lightsphere II. It is on my flash 95% of the time. I've had it for almost 3 years and couldn't be happier with it.

 

[annnewjerz]

I have the clear and the cloud Lightsphere and every time I have used my SB-600 so far (with the exception of some recent light painting). They are great, work just as advertised, are easy to use and seem to be very durable.

Happy shopping!

 

[NostalgicDad]

A very nice diffuser for sure. I have the cloud and also the amber dome to use with the tungsten WB setting indoors. It works great.

 

[GoofyontheHiSeas]

Same as Danny, cloud and amber. I use it whenever I use my SB600.

 

[Gdad]

I have the same GF Cloud/Amber deal. I don't use it much- I don't use my strobes much anyway- but when I do I usually just bounce off something. I found the diffuser clunky and awkward and it kept falling off.

 

[Coach]

Thanks for the feedback. It looks like I'll be picking mine up this weekend.

 

[Steve's Girl]

I prefer the Demb Flip-it. It is adjustable depending on the amount of light you want and it also folds down pretty small which makes carrying in a camera bag much easier.

 

[maddmike]

I have used the lightsphere professionally and personally for about three years. Many of the Gary Fong products are good but the lightsphere is one of my favorites. It works great.

 

[omghidanielle]

I'm looking to buy a flash for my Nikon d40, and am looking for suggestions.

Right now, I'm looking at the Nikon SB-400 AF? Mostly for the $price$, since I'm not looking to spend much more than $200. (But I can be coerced..haha)

Is this a good call? Or what do you suggest?

 

[tiger95]

If you could manage $218(at Amazon), I would suggest stepping up to the SB-600. It is more powerful, has more features, and what I like about it at least compared to the SB400, the ability to rotate the head to bounce the flash from different directions.

 

[handicap18]

I'd go with the SB-600 for more flexability and more features. The 400 is pretty limited. The SB-600 is about 85% of what the SB-900 is. I've had my SB-600 for about 3 years now and love it.

 

[YesDear]

You will be disappointed with the SB-400. The SB-600 is the far better choice.

 

[WDWFigment]

You will be disappointed with the SB-400. The SB-600 is the far better choice.

I have not yet been disappointed by the SB-400, but then again, I haven't tried the SB-600. It wouldn't surprise me if I were disappointed once I gave that a try.

Anyway, what I like about the SB-400 is its size. I can leave it on the camera most of the day without issue. I am concerned that the SB-600 would be more of a hassle to carry mounted all day. Plus, from a WDW standpoint, I'm not sure what it would offer that the SB-400 can't do. I can't imagine bouncing at different angles there. But then again, I haven't tried it.

 

[wenrob]

It's nice having the SB400 for lighter stuff but yeah, the SB600 has it beat by a mile. If you do a lot of zooming the SB600 would be a better fit, the SB400 just doesn't have much reach. WDWFigmant is right about the SB600 adding weight and I sure as heck wouldn't drag it around parks all day but for everyday use you get used to it.

 

[oregondaddyof2]

I have the SB600 for my D60... I love it! It has come in so handy and is a very nice flash overall... I am really going to enjoy having it this year for WDW for pictures while we are dining... The characters pose with the kids, and I am going to shoot the flash straight up or if I am near a wall, I might bounce it off, so it won't be such a direct light...

Also, that flash works great when you are riding dark rides like POTC or HM... Really lights up the target of your photo... Just Kidding of course...