Flash query.

[Todd.Hanz]

I have never used a fill flash on a rangefinder before and was wondering how I would go about figuring out the settings. I have a Nikon SB-28 flash and would be using my M6 classic with a flash sync of 1/50 sec. I know I would need an external cable but how do you set the flash up? I have an external meter so I guess I could go that way, my curious mind wants to know.

Todd

 

[nwcanonman]

Todd,
While I too use an SB28 (on TTL SLR;s), I prefer a small manual flash on my RF's. Then, depending on the lighting situation, I just increase (higher number=less light) the aperture 1/2 to 1 full stop to give fill.
A little experimentation and you'll have it

 

[SolaresLarrave]

Todd, I've read you can use the SB28 on a Leica, but then, there may be slight voltage differences between them so I wouldn't advice it. Methinks there's an adaptor made by Metz, which allows you the use of the Nikon flashlight on the Leica body, but then it gives you a kind of bulky set up.

One thing you can do is get yourself one of the recent Vivitars 283 or 285, which have an ISO dial. If all you want to do is fill (which is what I'd do), just set the flash ISO a couple of stops faster than your loaded film and, for a nicer effect, drag it (shoot at less than 1/50).

 

[Russ]

Todd, I've read you can use the SB28 on a Leica, but then, there may be slight voltage differences between them so I wouldn't advice it. Methinks there's an adaptor made by Metz, which allows you the use of the Nikon flashlight on the Leica body, but then it gives you a kind of bulky set up.

One thing you can do is get yourself one of the recent Vivitars 283 or 285, which have an ISO dial. If all you want to do is fill (which is what I'd do), just set the flash ISO a couple of stops faster than your loaded film and, for a nicer effect, drag it (shoot at less than 1/50).

Yeah, that will work rather well. I very found a Vivitar 282 unit, which is much smaller than the 283 & 285 models. Much easier to work with on a rangefinder. I find it too unweildy to use a flash that is twice the size of my camera.

Russ

 

[Marc Jutras]

I have both 283 and 285. The 283 is in my bag all the time since it's smaller but the 285 has much more control. They are both excellent. I use them together when needed with one on a stroboframe with camera and the other on a light stand (or monopod if I have an assistant) and a radio slave.

For fill flash, I like them better 2 stops under what the recommended aperture would be. 1 stop is nice but the fill flash effect is still to visible for my taste.

 

[Russ]

I have both 283 and 285. The 283 is in my bag all the time since it's smaller but the 285 has much more control. They are both excellent. I use them together when needed with one on a stroboframe with camera and the other on a light stand (or monopod if I have an assistant) and a radio slave.

For fill flash, I like them better 2 stops under what the recommended aperture would be. 1 stop is nice but the fill flash effect is still to visible for my taste.

Marc

I agree completely. I have the 283 and the 285. Both are great, but I prefer the 285, due its features. I use the 285 on the stroboframe "camera-flip" model, with great success. But they are strictly my SLR popper's. Too big for rangefinders.....

Russ