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02/17/2007 09:26:22 AM · #1 |
I can't seem to get good results with the flash I've got built into the camera. I'm still a beginner, but would it be wise to get a cheap 'beginners' flash and start practicing with it? Or is it best to practice without it first?
Can anyone tell me what to look for in a flash exactly? |
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02/17/2007 09:32:50 AM · #2 |
I would say get a flash. Maybe not a beginner flash but a good flash.
Maybe someone here with that camera can help you with a flash purchase.
Message edited by author 2007-02-17 09:33:31.
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02/17/2007 09:36:24 AM · #3 |
I'm not sure there is such a thing as a 'beginners flash'. A flash is a flash. But yes, get one! Onboard flash tends to be harsh, less controlable and can even cause red eye. Practice using a flash unit bounced off of celing or walls for a much more "pro" look and softer, more controlled light. You will love the improvement.
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02/17/2007 10:17:17 AM · #4 |
If your camera will connect to an external flash by all means get one. Get the very best one you can afford.
Trust me, not getting good results with the built in flash is standard. It's not a skill thing. :) That device is useful only for birthday party snapshots. |
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02/17/2007 11:50:09 AM · #5 |
| What would a good flash go for? I asked a photo buddy of mine and he said at least 100 bucks. Does this sound about right? What does one look for when buying a flash? |
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02/17/2007 11:52:29 AM · #6 |
Originally posted by heavyj:
What would a good flash go for? I asked a photo buddy of mine and he said at least 100 bucks. Does this sound about right? What does one look for when buying a flash? |
Well I paid almost 400 for mine. I'm not sure whats available for your camera though.
MattO
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02/17/2007 12:01:30 PM · #7 |
I have a Quantaray QBSZ370 hot shoe flash that I actually bought used from another member here. You can get them from Ritz Camera, I think for about $100. I'm happy enough with mine, it has been useful. BUT, at that price, you get NO controls on it. It has one switch that alterst he output from minimal to middle to full power, and that's ALL. All other control has to be done in-camera with the F-stop, shutterspeed, ISO. So while it was good enough to start out with, it has severe limitations.
Right now, I'm looking at a Canon 430EX flash, which has all the detailed controls I could want, and runs about $240. I think in the long run, it's worth the extra money. I don't know what out there works with your Fuji, but there must be something comparable.
So long story short, if you go for a cheap flash, you'll probably end up wanting a better one with more features in a year or so. It might be better to just go for the good stuff straight away :-)
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02/17/2007 12:05:15 PM · #8 |
Here is a link to a discussion that might help you chose. As well as a couple of recommendations on flashes.
MattO
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02/17/2007 12:41:03 PM · #9 |
By all means get yourself an external flash but I wouldn't write off your onboard flash completely. It's use has its place and can be helpful with some specific situations. The harshness of onboard flash can be modified to give a more pleasing softness.
Onboard flash can be useful as FILL flash, especially when you're using the external flash for bouncing light off ceilings and walls. You can control it by adjusting "flash exposure compensation" (or something like that on your camera). This will allow you to put out more, or less, light out of the onboard flash. If you want to soften its light some members here have used cutout pingpong balls around it.
Make sure that the flash you buy has both auto and manual modes. Auto mode has a sensor on the flash that is able to calculate when the subject has been exposed properly and then automatically shuts off. Manual mode gives you complete control over light output and intensity and is the best way to learn how to light a scene/subject. Also, when you purchase your flash, do some research before you lay your money down and make sure that your camera can handle its trigger voltage (otherwise you can fry the electronics of your camera).
A couple of recommended "generic" flashes that are inexpensive and popular are the Vivitar 283 or 285HV. The Sunpak 383 is also highly recommneded. I wouldn't buy them from Ebay as many older versions of these flashes are sold there and it's these older models that have the higher voltages that can ruin your camera.
Check out Flash Photography 101 to start learning to use your flash. |
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02/17/2007 12:54:29 PM · #10 |
| I took a look at the Flash Photography 101. When it comes to what is called the "Basics" like shutter speed, ISO etc...is there a link to where I can start learning about that? |
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02/17/2007 01:05:00 PM · #11 |
Here is a great site someone on her pointed me to before. It has all the basics.
//www.morguefile.com/archive/classroom.php?MORGUEFILE=pvc7abk3ooskh5reedeckqgcb3
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02/17/2007 01:09:57 PM · #12 |
Originally posted by heavyj:
I took a look at the Flash Photography 101. When it comes to what is called the "Basics" like shutter speed, ISO etc...is there a link to where I can start learning about that? |
You can start HERE. Specifically, check out section 3 (Using Your Digital Camera)for the basics of photogarphy, and section 4 (Digital Photography Equipment), which has a section on flash. |
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02/17/2007 01:28:35 PM · #13 |
Originally posted by heavyj:
I took a look at the Flash Photography 101. When it comes to what is called the "Basics" like shutter speed, ISO etc...is there a link to where I can start learning about that? |
The thing is to get a nice flash (my basic requirements are a nice range and swivel/tilt head) and to learn hands-on. While you can easily make your snapshots look better just by adding an external flash, things like balancing flash with ambient light come quite easily with a little practice.
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02/17/2007 01:45:37 PM · #14 |
I used one of the sunpack flashes with my S7000 worked well madke sure you get one with a swivel head . btw can buy these 2nd hand most photo stores now quite cheap
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