FLash: Will it work? - DPChallenge Forums

02/24/2007 08:39:52 AM · #1

I was recommended a manual flash for my Fujifilm S9500. It was a Sigma flash. My question is, how do I know if this is compatible with my camera as far as not frying the camera? According to the sales clerk most of the flash will work, with the exception of a Canon flash.

Any advice?

02/24/2007 09:36:24 AM · #2

Your camera has just a basic sync connection between the camera and flash, which means that the camera has no communication with the flash. You don't have the option of putting a flash on the camera, putting it on autopilot and letting TTL metering take care of the rest.

This means you can get a flash for a lot less money. It also mean that you will probably have to be a lot more involved in its operation to get good results. I'd recommend this one Vivitar 285HV. It's relatively cheap, it's powerful and it's a proven performer, having been around for a long time. It has full manual controls and also has an auto mode, using the flash's own internal sensor. You don't say which Sigma flash you were recommended, but with your camera, anything that has TTL is going to be a big waste of money.

As far as not frying your camera's internals, you want to look at trigger voltage of the flash unit vs the allowable trigger voltage for your camera. If the flash unit's trigger voltage exceeds the camera's rating, damage can occur. The new 285HV flash units have bee re-designed for a lower trigger voltage, 6V. The older 285 units, had voltages of 200V and up, so if you get a used older one, beware.

02/24/2007 10:00:44 AM · #3

I believe it was this one I was recommended

//www.sigmaphoto.com/flashes/flashes_flashes_details.asp?id=3256

02/24/2007 02:20:35 PM · #4

Originally posted by heavyj:

I believe it was this one I was recommended

//www.sigmaphoto.com/flashes/flashes_flashes_details.asp?id=3256

The compatibility chart for that flash does not list your camera. It will probably fire, but only at full power, so you'll essentially have no control.

02/24/2007 09:59:11 PM · #5

I went back and asked the clerk. He seems to think that I would be able to manually control it. Does this sound right?

02/25/2007 01:04:46 AM · #6

Originally posted by heavyj:

I went back and asked the clerk. He seems to think that I would be able to manually control it. Does this sound right?

If it was that model you linked to, not really. The unit you linked to has only 2 manual power settings, full power and 1/16. That's not going to be very helpful if you have to shoot in manual all the time. Even if it does, you'd be wasting money, paying for features your camera can't use; auto zoom head, TTL metering, etc. The unit you linked to is really designed for specific camera brands, none of which are Fujifilm. Are you 100% sure that's the same flash he's trying to sell to you?

You can take your camera into the store and have the clerk show you exactly how it works and verify that you will indeed have full manual control and that the flash has its own auto mode. If it works for you and you want to buy it, then buy it. If not, I'd shop elsewhere since, from what you're posting, it sounds like the clerk doesn't know what they're doing or they're just trying to make a sale. If you do buy it, make sure you understand their return policy.

Sony DT 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Aspherical ED Zoom Lens for Sony Alpha

02/25/2007 02:35:42 AM · #7

It was a Sigma, that's for sure. The way he explained it was "Your camera has no flashes made for it, therefore you have to manually set everything. You will not be able to use any feature that is automatic. All other flashes that are lower in price are automatic flashes that won't trigger."

I know that with my camera, I'm limited, but still would like to get something that I can add to a new camera later on in life as well. I do not want to waste my money now though, so a cheaper 100 dollar model would do me fine if it will produce the same results as the 300 dollar model.

kiwinick

Sony DSLR-A550

02/25/2007 02:49:16 AM · #8

I have a Fuji S 7000 i Use a STARBLITZ 2800DSF Flash and it works perfect. it has 2 auto settings that work. I use it maily for fill flash.normally in "A" mode, for primary use I use the camera in Manual mode.your Fuji will not be much different than mine. The Starblitz is a good solid make its designed for digital photography

Message edited by author 2007-02-25 02:49:49.

02/25/2007 02:58:51 AM · #9

I'll see if I can find these models here in Japan. Can someone give me an opinion on this one?

Flash

Message edited by author 2007-02-25 02:59:35.

02/25/2007 09:38:11 AM · #10

Originally posted by heavyj:

I'll see if I can find these models here in Japan. Can someone give me an opinion on this one?

Flash

Never heard of it.

The Vivitar 285HV that I linked to in my first post will do everything that another flash will do without adding a lot of bells and whistles that have no relevance to your camera. If and when you upgrade to a camera with a TTL flash system, you will be able to either keep the 285 and, by adding a slave to it, have a manually controllable second flash. You'll also be able to use it on your new camera until you decide to invest in a dedicated flash that has TTL. Alternately, you can sell it. Used 285's sell on ebay for ~$75, which is not much less than what you will pay for it. A no name brand will probably have a lot more difficulty selling.