X100s and external flash - how to hold?

O

o0dano0o

Guest
Hi all,

I recently started experimenting with using the x100s with a wired external flash. My biggest issue is that with the flash cable attached to the hot shoe, I can't use my aftermarket thumb grip. I find it very difficult to hold the flash in one hand while holding the camera in the other hand without the help from the thumb grip.

Is there anyone else in the same boat?

Thanks!
 
I use ax x100s but not with an external flash, but I imagine if I wanted a set-up as you describe, I'd put away the thumbs-up and try a half-case or grip, plus a wrist strap?
 
I used off camera flash for year with my RF and SLRs. My favorite was a Vivitar 192 about the size of a thick paperback. It's bulb was along the long side of the flash so I was able to hold it with my hand shaped like a C. When I moved to a 285 (auto and remote sensor) I put my index and middle fingers over the top so they pointed in the same direction as the flash and gripped with my ring/index finger and thumb on opposite sides. If found this worked best as I was able to follow the point in my mind. I did the same thing with the C, follow the point.

B2 (;->
 
Radio triggers are great but the only way to get TTL with Fuji is with a cable, so there are still times I use a cable with a handheld flash on the Fuji.

There's not much of a secret to it as far as I can figure out... it's just slippery and hard to hold, unfortunately. The only thing I can offer other than what's already been suggested here is to look for a TTL cable with the cord going off to the side instead of the front or back. For example something like this cable from Viltrox. Less torque side to side on the camera that way makes it less fumble-prone.

viltrox.jpg
 
Put the X100S flash mode on commander and then use a Nikon SB-30 in slave mode (in your hand). It might take some fine tuning of the aperture, but it's no worse than a radio slave.

Dante
 
taemo said:
this, I also use a Yongnuo Canon trigger on my Fuji and works great, can sync up to 1/1000s but if you want the Bruce Gilden style, then maybe a flash cord :D
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Yes this is the Canon version.... I use them with the 5Diesel also as well as the Ricoh GR.
 
taemo said:
this, I also use a Yongnuo Canon trigger on my Fuji and works great, can sync up to 1/1000s

...
Click to expand...

The Yongnuo RF-603C-II works on all Fujifilm X bodies. You must acquire version II with the TRX/TX switch on the side. The RF-603 is reliable and easy on batteries. Of course there is no TTL, but I haven't used TTL since ~2009 so I don't miss it.

Other Yongnuo triggers work too, but I do not have any first hand experience with those. I must mention the Yongnuo YN-560 III flashes are a great buy. They work seamlessly with the RF-603 and also have a sensitive optical trigger mode as well. I carry five on gigs. I thought they would have begun to fall apart by now... but they are reasonably tough (and reliable).
 
Peter Wijninga said:
jloden, which kind of flash do your use?
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Sorry, missed this earlier (RFF really needs to fix the email notifications!) but I use an XF-20 for the Fuji with TTL. Usually resides in a side pocket of my camera bag.

Otherwise if I need more flash power I'd reuse one of my other full size speedlights in manual mode.
 
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