Oh the Horror - Recommend me a Flash for my R3M

kshapero

kshapero

South Florida Man
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Mar 27, 2006
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Would like to try working with a flash with my CV Bessa R3M. Never used a flash with an RF. Can someone recommend me a simple to use flash for my rig?:confused::)
 
Does if have to be small? I prefer a small flash on RF cameras, even if I have to gie up power and the ability to bounce.

the Nikon SB-30 is teeny tiny, and so is the Sunpak pf20dx. The latter is a little more powerful (GN20) and takes regular AAA batteries, which are easy to find all over the world.
 
kshapero said:
Would like to try working with a flash with my CV Bessa R3M. Never used a flash with an RF. Can someone recommend me a simple to use flash for my rig?:confused::)
Click to expand...

My Nikon SLR flashes work for me. just them on Auto using their built in sensor.

Stephen
 
Nikons work, but I find an SB900 is a bit unwieldily on a RF. I've got an old Quantaray auto flash (with bounce, but no rotation) that I've kept around for the purpose.
 
There are any number of very good, used Vivitar flashes that will work just fine on your camera. And they are quite inexpensive. The Vivitar 283 or the Vivitar 2800 have auto thyristors so you can use them on auto if you wish. There is a 2800 at BHPhoto for $17.95 right now.

But those without work great on manual and really are not that hard to learn.
All you need to know is the distance to your subject. Focus on your subject and you know that number. Set the proper aperture for that distance and use as fast a shutter speed as you want. A bit simplified but it really isn't a lot more complicated then that. If you want to avoid redeye just use a PC cable and hold your flash of to the left side in your hand.
 
Not to cause anxiety, but I'd want to consider the size and weight of any flash that's mounted on a Bessa. I am happy to stand corrected, but I thought the top plate was plastic.
 
Great pick, though I was leaning toward the pf20dx myself. Can I ask what made you chose that unit?
 
kshapero said:
Just bought a Nikon SB-30 Flash. Yahoo!
Click to expand...

That was quick. Hope it works for you as you wish.

I was going to suggest http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sunpak-Auto...pt=Digital_Camera_Flashes&hash=item20d843c2b6 which is a fun and easy little flash to work with. I forget the guide number, but I think about 20 at ISO 100. I have three. It might be worth you while anyway as it is smallish, easy to read the auto modes for use, and has from full power to 1/32 power, for really close up, or freeze-frame shots like milk drop crowns. It would also make a good backdrop light or rim light with a more powerful flash.

Anyway, good luck with your Nikon SB-30. I never heard anybody complain about their flashes.
 
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