Macro flash options for a D50

[Tobyh]

Hi all,

I have a Nikon D50 which recently have used with a Tamron 90mm macro lens. I'm getting some great pictures but many are limited due to my flash options. I only have the built in unit which positioned where it is means if you get too close half your shot ends in shadow.

Does anyone have enough experience to offer some advice here please? I wanted to perhaps get some options that hopefully arent too expensive.

I understand that a D50 does not have a remote commander unit built in which is going to mean more cost if I looked at this for example - http://www.dpreview.com/news/0511/05...onremotefl.asp

Thanks in advance.

Tobyh

[Alan]

Hi Toby

That looks like a good piece of kit in the link. You have to remember though, people have been using flash without the remote option for many years, so you don’t have to go that route.

There are many flash systems on the market for close-up – from ring flash to conventional mounting. You can use the flash shoe on the camera, or through an adapter that fits in the shoe, which takes a pc socket connection, so you can use it off-camera with a short lead.

You mentioned about the shadow effect with the built in flash. This is less of a problem if you remove the lens hood. There are some shots of mine in the Gallery where I’ve used the Tamron 90mm with onboard fill-in flash using this method. It’s not the best method I agree, but is worth trying. I use a D70.

[Tobyh]

Thanks for the reply Alan.

I wasn't clear - the link shows a remote flash unit but that was just one option I had seen and read about, I'm more than happy not to bother with remote to be honest. A ring option is probably what would best suit me as you say.

As for the lens hood, I never actually have it on for the Tamron lens as the glass itself is a fair way inside the housing for the most part so flare is not a problem, it's just that I'm getting too close (but still in focus) to the point where the top of the lens is casting a shadow on the bottom part of the picture when the flash hits.

It looks like it's all pointing to a ring option then. Any pointers for what I should be looking for or avoiding please ?

Thanks

Tobyh

[Alan]

Originally Posted by Tobyh

Thanks for the reply Alan.

I wasn't clear - the link shows a remote flash unit but that was just one option I had seen and read about, I'm more than happy not to bother with remote to be honest. A ring option is probably what would best suit me as you say.

As for the lens hood, I never actually have it on for the Tamron lens as the glass itself is a fair way inside the housing for the most part so flare is not a problem, it's just that I'm getting too close (but still in focus) to the point where the top of the lens is casting a shadow on the bottom part of the picture when the flash hits.

It looks like it's all pointing to a ring option then. Any pointers for what I should be looking for or avoiding please ?

Thanks

Tobyh

Cant say I've had much problem with the shadow effect, but maybe it's because I don't like getting too close as you loose DOF. A normal shoe mounted flash is higher so this would do for now! Works well with a light deffuser. Of course the other option - if you can afford it, is another Macro lens such as a 150mm so you dont have to be as close.

I have to say though, I much prefere natural lighting if the conditions are ok.

I've only used ring-flash a couple of times, and know you have to get the flash compensation/exposure spot on to prevent burning highlights out. I'm sure some of the others will give advice.

[nightshade]

There are some soft light attachments on e-bay,that may help, without spending too much money initially, and may be better than spending a fortune for just occasional use
A slave (or two) triggered from the built in unit would be another option,and with digital you can play around until you get the best results
There are websites with info to build your own ring flash,at blue peter prices!!

[eeyore]

Originally Posted by nightshade

There are websites with info to build your own ring flash,at blue peter prices!!

like this one

http://www.dennisonbertram.com/hackm...ring-flash.htm

or if you are feeling a bit more advanced this one

http://www.brainerror.net/texts_macroring_en.php

and there is all sorts of good stuff on here

http://www.jyoseph.com/extras/2006/0...ring_light.php

Further to this it is possible to make a twin headed macro flash unit out f two old guns, a cokin lens holder and a jessops off camera adaptor. This is a bit convoluted to go into here and I casnt find the link but if you want to know more I can fill you in bu pm.

I've made all sorts of stuff so if you go this way please feel free to PM me idf you get stuck with any of the projects

[RogerTheCat]

Originally Posted by Tobyh

I understand that a D50 does not have a remote commander unit built in which is going to mean more cost if I looked at this for example - http://www.dpreview.com/news/0511/05...onremotefl.asp

Thanks in advance.

Tobyh

That is a lovely piece of kit