compact flash on R-D1s

[zoom2zoom]

sorry if this has been discussed, but is there a compact flash that i can use as fill-in.. i have an older Nikon speedlight that will work, but i want something very compact like the contax G flashes..

i dont need ttl, manual is good for me... thanks in advanced.

 

[Bob Parsons]

I'm also looking for the same. One problem I've found is that when using a high ISO and large aperture with fill flash the flash output cannot be reduced sufficiently. The only way I've found to overcome this is by using neutral density gels over the flash.

I've yet to find an auto (not TTL) flash that will operate with rechargeable batteries and have a sufficiently low power output for fill.



Bob.

 

[manojd]

I have been looking for the same too. I am considering an LED video light that stays on during exposure so that the meter can measure accurately. Another option on my mind is to rig a disposable camera flash, but I don't have the time right now.

 

[JeffGreene]

Leica SF24D

Leica SF24D

I'm not sure whether this flash would fit your needs, but there are a fair number of used versions available for very reasonable prices, and it doesn't require a Wein safesync. I purchased mine from KEH for what I sold my Vivitar 285 and Wein safesync for to a friend. I found the Vivitar to be too bulky. I don't use flash all that much, but when I do do the SF24d is convenient and manageable. I use it with my M6 and RD1.

 

[jvr]

Hi!

I've been using the Konica HX-14 flash from my AF Hexar. Very tiny and light (even with batteries), coverage perfect for a 28 on the Epson (borderline with a 21 Biogon), fast recycle. The only problem is that it has no controllable output, so fill in at big apertures is out.

Bought the Metz 20 C-2 because of the 2 auto apertures + manual reduced power + celing reflector. Helas, recycle time is very big, sometimes the flash does not fire, hotshoe locking lever breaks your nails, it's much bigger than the HX-14.

So, the Metz's back on the shelf, the HX-14 is back. But I'll keep searching...

See attach pics. The Hexar is a bit smaller (in height) than the RD-1s, for comparison.

 

[ZorkiKat]

Vivitar 2800

Vivitar 2800

Try the Vivitar 2800. It's like a scaled down, economy version of Vivitar's famous 283/285 flash. Th 2800 is smaller and lighter, and its output is less (perhaps half?) than the 285's bursts.

Like its more expensive and heftier brethren, the 2800 also has a tilting head,
2 auto and 1 manual settings, use thyristor circuitry and automatically controls its burst intensity through a small eye in front.

It's also very economical with batteries. A single cache of alkaline cells will
fire hundreds of flashes before it goes flat. The charge times are relatively faster too.

Jay

 

[Spyderman]

I use a Canon 277T when I need flash. Description is HERE.

It has automatic modes for apertures f/2 to f/22. Also the automatic is very precise - I also used with a Powershot G3 digicam and there were no blown highlights. It's not tiny, but small enough for me.

EDIT:
HERE is link to all T-series speedlites...

 

[anglophone1]

Try the Vivitar 2800. It's like a scaled down, economy version of Vivitar's famous 283/285 flash. Th 2800 is smaller and lighter, and its output is less (perhaps half?) than the 285's bursts.

Like its more expensive and heftier brethren, the 2800 also has a tilting head,
2 auto and 1 manual settings, use thyristor circuitry and automatically controls its burst intensity through a small eye in front.

It's also very economical with batteries. A single cache of alkaline cells will
fire hundreds of flashes before it goes flat. The charge times are relatively faster too.

Jay

Even better a 2500 if you can find one, has zoom head as well, I use one frequently with an R D1 , off camera too with a vivitar long sync cord and a wrist strap, it will neatly take a stofen omnibounce to soften the light a tad more, just make sure you angle the head at 45deg so as not to fool the auto sensor.
David Alan Harvey uses a band aid [really!] on his 2800 to soften and warm up the light......................
Best
Clive