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DPChallenge Forums >> Hardware and Software >> How to..... my SB-800 Flash?
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Showing posts 1 - 6 of 6, (reverse)
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 11/23/2008 07:42:40 PM · #1
I am photographing wrestling (linky) and I am changing batteries several times during the all day tournaments. I "had" the fifth battery thing but my wallet and several things were stolen at a tournament and the fifth battery was lost. Should I replace the fifth battery thing, is it really that useful? I have only had this flash a few month... I'm using Sunpak 2500 mAh 125V rechargeable batteries.

I need to know how to get:

More battery life or a solution to this... extra equipment?... better batteries?

Better recycling time.. waiting a few seconds to take the next shot in wrestling means not getting the shot.

Thanks! :)

Message edited by author 2008-11-23 19:43:08.
 11/23/2008 10:25:04 PM · #2
The extra battery is helpful, but it still isn't quick enough for sporting events like that. I'd go with the 4 batteries and THIS SETUP if I were you.

E
 11/23/2008 10:29:46 PM · #3
The fifth battery thing probably gives you a little better refresh time and obviously a little better longevity. I've always used it, but haven't really tested using four to see how much of a practical difference I'd notice.

A battery pack is probably a good investment for you since you're doing something that involves changing batteries more often. I bought Nikon's SD-8A so I could do weddings without switching them as often. And they offer a little better refresh rate, too. You'd probably find it to be a handy addition to your bag.

Just as a side note... is the flash really completely necessary? Have you tried shooting it with available light? I see you have a decent 2.8 lens and the 1.8... I just wonder how your results would be if you just bumped up the ISO a bit and tried it that way. I'm somewhat surprised that the wrestlers wouldn't find the constant flashes to be a distraction, too.

Message edited by author 2008-11-23 22:33:54.
 11/24/2008 07:15:55 PM · #4

Thanks guys! Eric, the $ 469.95 is out of my league... this is my last year covering wrestling, my kids are graduating.. so I can't see putting that much money into a flash pack.. thanks tho! The Nikon SD-8A Battery Pack is kinda in my price range and something I will look into.

As far as no flash... its crap. I have the Bigma, its f/4-6 depending on zoom and also the movement of the wrestlers is too quick for anything under 250/s... I shoot my candids with no flash, like the kids sitting in the stands or on the sidelines, where the movement is minimal. They are used to the flash, there are usually several newspapers at the events plus a multitude of parents, its like the paparazzi up in the gyms lol

Thanks guys ;)

Message edited by author 2008-11-24 19:23:19.
 11/24/2008 07:24:22 PM · #5
so are the batteries I'm using "the best"?
 11/24/2008 09:03:35 PM · #6
better batteries! I use Vivitar 285HVs, and when i'm on location i have 4 2750mah batteries in there and another set good to go in the bag. I always have like a Duracell Ultra package lying around just in case.

You'll be alright if you take care of your batteries and use the ones with the highest power rating. eBay is a great place for cheap, powerful batteries. I got ones by a company called Fujicell and they kick ass.
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