Re: [Leica] Ring strobes - AND ASPH

[Nick Hunter <nhunter1@mindspring.com>]

Some thoughts on the TTL ringflash issue:

1.) Last time I checked, Sunpak does not have a TTL module for Leica.  :(

2.) Some ringflashes have two tubes and can light from one side or the
other (you can rotate it to any position). You can also block out some of
the arc to directionalize the light if your ring does not have this
feature. TTL should compensate up to power limit. Don't block off too much
light!

3.) If you use two flash units in TTL, you can  vary the power ratio only
by changing the distance. This may sound counter-intuitive, but automatic
flash units adjust power by duration, not intensity. The TTL (or thyristor,
in non-TTL auto) can only set one duration for linked flash units. Their
relative output will be the same regardless of setting. This won't be true
of manually set, metered flash (but don't forget that extension factor!).

4.) If you want a ringlight, and are prepared to stick with non-TTL, The
Sunpak 622 with ringlight head can be set manually and has more kick than
shoe mounted models. You may need this for high magnification work. (BTW,
622 is TTL for cameras where Sunpak makes the module)

5.) You don't mention what lens you will use, except to say you will use
supplementary lenses and a bellows. If you go beyond life size using normal
camera lenses, you may get better results reversing the lens.

6.) I can't believe I used the word "directionalize" :)

Best of luck, hope any of this helps.

Nick Hunter



> > I desire to do macro photography of coins. Needed are 1:1, 2:1, and 3:1
>capabilities,
> > as well as the ranges 1:2, 1:3, etc., using Leicaflex, Leicaflex SL, and
>Leicaflex SL2
> > with Bellows-R and supplementary close-up lenses.
> >
> > Considering the very close object to lens front distances that will be
>encountered,
> > are there strobe ring lights available for such an application, and what
>are they
> > (make/source)?
>
> Harry,
>
> I would recommend you get a TTL flash capable body, it will make
> exposure with a ringlight a snap.  Sorry I don't know which R has TTL
> flash.
>
> For ringlights, take a look at the Sunpak DX-8R at:
>
> http://www.sunpak.com/dx8r.html
>  >>
>Harry and Dennis;
>I recommend against using a ringlight whether or not you use a TTL flash. A
>ringlight will produce very flat lighting that will not reproduce the texture
>of the coins very well at all. On the other hand, using strobes from both
>sides will allow the texture -- the relief -- of the coins to come out. You
>can vary the intensity of the two side lights, by having one strong and the
>other weak, to control the reproduction of the relief.
>Charlie