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What Are You Using For A Flash?


dNorm

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I avoid using the flash unless it is a studio set up where I can have a main and fill source. The M8 pictures taken without a flash are wonderful. I just plan to use the available light source ahead of the shot. When I do use flash units they are very basic and point into an umbrella reflector. You really don't need expensive TTL flash units in my experience.

 

My thoughts for your consideration.

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I wanted to have a flash for "fill-in", and once I heard from others here that the Nikon SB-800 worked with the M8, I tried it out. It seemed to work with no problems, but I had to put it in "auto mode" rather than "ttl" of course. I haven't yet tried it for fill-in, but my thoughts are to turn down the flash intensity and try it that way.

 

I never used to like flash pictures, but Nikon's computerized flash controls completely changed my mind. I don't think any other cameras have anything even close. Leica certainly doesn't, nor do I think it's even possible without a lot of software development. If the SB-800 works as I expect, I know I'll be using it for fill lighting. When you've got people standing near you, in the shade, with a brightly lit scene behind them, the flash makes a difference between a throw-away photo and one that looks just the way you want it to look.

 

Other than for fill lighting, I don't expect to ever use it on the M8, and if I wanted to spend the money, I'd probably get one of the smaller Nikon flash units rather than the SB-800 or the newer (and bigger) SB-900. The 800 is discontinued I think, and has always been difficult to find used.

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I had the SF 24D and a Nikon SB 800. Both worked and the Nikon allowed you to bounce and to redirect the bounce towards the subjuct with the built in white card.

 

But I sold both and bought a SF 58 and am very happy I did. Now I have TTL, bounce, bounce and redirect, bounce and fill with extra front flash, redirected bounce (head tilt/swivel) and a host of other options.

 

With the SF 24D this was totally impossible. With the Nikon it was hit and miss as to exposure.

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Thanks Don. I do find on occasions when I'm out shooting in daylight, I need some fill flash. Carrying reflectors are impractical for me. Otherwise, I also generally avoid using a flash. Thanks for your input. Cheers. -Norm

 

I avoid using the flash unless it is a studio set up where I can have a main and fill source. The M8 pictures taken without a flash are wonderful. I just plan to use the available light source ahead of the shot. When I do use flash units they are very basic and point into an umbrella reflector. You really don't need expensive TTL flash units in my experience.

 

My thoughts for your consideration.

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Hey Mike. Interesting bit about using a Nikon flash. I would agree that Nikon has one of the best flash systems around, I used to own a complete Nikon setup (D2X). I still have the SB-600, but mannn, I don't know if I have the guts to put it on the M8.2. I'm betting that my fears are totally unsubstantiated, but the last thing I want to do is *somehow* damage my new M8.2. But, interesting and excellent idea if it works. Cheers. -Norm

 

I wanted to have a flash for "fill-in", and once I heard from others here that the Nikon SB-800 worked with the M8, I tried it out. It seemed to work with no problems, but I had to put it in "auto mode" rather than "ttl" of course. I haven't yet tried it for fill-in, but my thoughts are to turn down the flash intensity and try it that way.

 

I never used to like flash pictures, but Nikon's computerized flash controls completely changed my mind. I don't think any other cameras have anything even close. Leica certainly doesn't, nor do I think it's even possible without a lot of software development. If the SB-800 works as I expect, I know I'll be using it for fill lighting. When you've got people standing near you, in the shade, with a brightly lit scene behind them, the flash makes a difference between a throw-away photo and one that looks just the way you want it to look.

 

Other than for fill lighting, I don't expect to ever use it on the M8, and if I wanted to spend the money, I'd probably get one of the smaller Nikon flash units rather than the SB-800 or the newer (and bigger) SB-900. The 800 is discontinued I think, and has always been difficult to find used.

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I have been gravitating more towards this flash for a couple reasons - balance on the M8's and I would generally use only for fill-flash. How do you feel about the overall capabilities of this flash - i.e. no swivel/tilt head and being limited to the CR123 batteries? Thanks. -Norm

 

For those rare occasions when I use a flash on my M8, I use a Leica SF-24D.
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Hello folks. Just curious, what flash are you using for your M8, M8.2 or M9. I was considering the SF 58, but it looks awkwardly huge for these cameras to the point of making the camera seem off balance. Input gladly welcomed. Cheers. -Norm

 

I have three Vivitar 285HV flashes (with "checked" trigger voltages) that I use once in a while.

 

I have thought about that little flash for the Olympus EP-1.

 

As others have said; flash is a last resort, unless it is there for interests sake.

 

JohnS.

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Hi Norm,

 

Like a few others on this forum, I use the SF 24D with Nikon SC 17TTL cable, it is a great combination that works very well and allows you to bounce to your hearts content.

 

The SF 24D is a great small pocketable flash that produces great images both as a prime light and also in fill and the batteries last for ages (they are more expensive but worth it).

 

Great combination that I can highly recommend.

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SF 24 D & SF 58

 

 

Don't really like the SF 24 D, but it's better than nothing when you need to add some light.

 

I do like the SF 58. It works very well. I did shoot this in a room without any natural light and no other lamps than a small model lamp.

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