Flash unit for a Kiev 4

[Whateverist]

I'm looking into a flash to use with my Kiev. Nothing professional; what I'm looking for is a basic-but-reliable flash for indoor snapshots. However, my only experience with flashes has been with built-in ones on digital cameras, so I'm a bit lost.

So what should I be looking for? It needs to have a PC connector, I assume, so are these common with flash units? Can I buy a modern (off-the-shelf) flash unit that'll work with the camera, or are there special considerations or specifications I need to look out for? If a new flash won't work, how well do they last, and would a used one still offer decent performance? Are there any brands or models you would recommend?

Thanks.

 

[MarkoKovacevic]

I quite like my Metz 32CT3. It's not too large and has a great exposure meter. Hotshoe mount, but you can easily get a hotshoe to sync cable adapter.

 

[Whateverist]

Any electronic flash with a PC connector will work.

That's good to know. I take it Vivitar is a good brand?

 

[summar]

One Kiev peculiarity when using electronic flash: The circuit will remain live (on) as long as the shutter is left uncocked, so it's a good idea not to turn on the flash until the shutter is cocked and to advance the film right away after taking a shot!

 

[Whateverist]

I'm looking at a Vivitar 2600 right now - were these made with different connectors? I've seen a few advertised as "hotshoe version", or camera make-specific, does this mean there are models without PC-sync?

 

[Whateverist]

Thanks. I've found a very cheap-but-working Vivitar; let's hope I can get something resembling decent results with it 🙂