Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1999/05/10
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Jim Laurel wrote: > > I notice that flash solutions for the non-ttl M6 classics are popular topics > here on the LUG. Up until recently, I have used my M6s primarily as > existing light cameras, turning to my EOS equipment when fill flash is > needed. I had dismissed using the M6s with flash for a variety of reasons > including a distrust of non-ttl flash units, 1/50 synch, etc. > > However, I spent some time recently really trying to get a good, compact > flash solution worked out. In an interview with Bob Krist a couple of years > ago, David Alan Harvey revealed that he uses a small flash, a Vivitar 2800 > for fill in low light. He also talks about using a little warming gel on it > which, I assume, is the one that ships with the flash. I had tried it a few > times and didn't like the excessively orange results. If you look at > Harvey's fill flash shots in Natl Geo, you'll see the same effect. > > The Vivitar 2800 is a compact auto thyristor flash with a bounce and swivel > head, and two auto settings. With ISO 100 film, these are f2.0 and f4.0. > This little flash recycles quickly, has decent power, and is very > lightweight, especially if you use lithium batteries. And it's very > inexpensive at around $29.95! > LOTS OF SNIPPING > > Hope this helps some of you and...good shooting! > > --Jim Laurel Jim, Any experience yet using this off camera with extension synch cord and hand holding it for directional flash fill? Also, do you think it's possible to replace the hot shoe with the aluminum shoe that's available as a replacement shoe for the Vivitar 283? I've been trying to standardize all my flash synchs with household fittings rather than dedicated cords so the last thing I need is another set of different cords. Your experiences interest me and this sounds like a nicely balanced alternative to using the 283 mounted on a Leica. Yeah, I know, sacrilege and all that using a flash on a Leica. But, sometimes for some of the event photography I do, it's just nice and easier to zone focus at 6 feet at f 8.0 with a 35mm in a virtually dark room and know you'll have the pic. - -- Carl Socolow http://members.tripod.com/SocPhoto/