Canon and Nikon users

I have come across what seems like a very cheap Macro photography ring flash that some may be interested in.Its for Canon and Nikon users and the model is as follows.

Meike FC 100 32 LED ring flash.

One of my friends was using one last night in our regular weekly photography night that the two of us hold every Thursday night.

It is £18.00 inc delivery and available from amazon. It gives great results and for the price …….. You really can't go wrong.

I had been looking at Sigma versions at well over £140.00 and the Canon version …….well, you can imagine.

It would come in very handy for photographing layouts, loco's and all sorts of small things as well as general portrait photography. I've just ordered one . ……… Check them out.

Toto

Looks OK, Toto.  Here's the one I use.

DCR-250 Super Macro conversion lens for D-SLR cameras, 4K and HDV Camcorders

It multiplies what ever lens you have on by 250.



also



Cheers

Hi Max,

That looks like a extension tube or teleconvertor that you are using. Correct me if I am wrong. This is an actual " ring flash "

I have not mastered the art of attaching links to posts yet but when mines comes through the post, I'll post a picture of it. A very useful tool indeed.

I have looked at 1.2 and 1.4 extension tubes in the past and although they give you greater magnification or extension of focal length, they also have the negative effect of reducing your maximum aperture size by at least one full stop. Given that most of my lenses are of the mid range variety say f 4.5 or thereabouts with regards to maximum aperture, it can end up being a bit restrictive when shooting in low light. I do have a 105 mm f2.8 prime macro lense and a 24 - 70 mm f 2.8 mm lens as well but the rest are just middle of the road when it comes to aperture.

Anyway, I'll post the ring flash when it arrives.

Cheers

Tom.

Hi Toto

No, it's not an extension tube.  It's a lens.  It clips on to the front of your lens.

This is yours - a LED flash which clips on also.

Recommendations For You - DealeXtreme

It's a really excellent tool, BUT . . .

I hate to be a wet blanket, but the first thing you do when photographing models, is turn off the flash.

Sorry mate.:oops:

This seems interesting Toto. I think my macros could be improved by extra light. And, as you know, little bugs never put themselves in the best places for macro work. Will be looking to see how you get on with it when it arrives.

I have one of these Meike ring flash as posted by Toto, very effective for close up and macro work.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Meike-Includes-Adapter-Digital-Camera/dp/B00EADGXJU/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1411725158&sr=1-2&keywords=Meike+FC+100+32+LED+ring+flash

it is not a conventional flash, it uses LEDs, it can be used as a continuous light or flash, and can also be switched to provide light from half the ring, which as it can be rotated round the lens means you can provide light from left, right, top or bottom and any angle between. They are also available for most other DSLRs, not just "Canikon" I have the Sony/Minolta version, only difference is the hot shoe fitting.

Agree with Max.  I never use a flash to photograph my models.  I try to get as much light as I can and use a tripod.  My camera is a cheapie Olympus that I got as a Christmas present many years ago.  It still takes good pictures although close-ups are a challenge.

John

I think with hindsight, that Tom's talking about taking macro photos of insects and the like.

It might be different, but I ran it past my wife, who is a botanical artist and photographer.  She never uses a flash.

However, she said there are many who do.

Horses for courses.

I read the blurb on that ring flash Toto. :thumbs

As Mike says, it appears to be a LED flash/light rather than a "proper" flash.  Once you've got used to it, it should do a good job although it seems there's a fair bit of trial and error before you get it right.  No TTL metering with it and, being a "light" rather than a true flash, you have to use manual control and not the flash setting.  At least "trial and error" isn't a problem in the digital age ……….;-)

At the price, almost a gift if you have a use for one. :cheers

All I can say at the moment because I am every so slightly inebriated is read Dorset Mikes post ……….. Sort of sums it up.

Toto

Hi Bittern,

I think for your macro work it would work wonders. It gives a good even spread of light. I think it only works connected to the hot shoe and does not have the facility for it to be fired remotely. However, it could be attached to a hotshoe lead should you want to take it off camera.

Personally, I can't think why this would be desire able the type of light that it is.

What can be done is the flash can be used for a good even front on distribution of light, either constant or flash. Meanwhile, you could supplement this by using a traditional flashgun " off camera " fired through a remote Should your camera / flash have this facility.

I've seen the results photographing water droplets and I can assure you they were fantastic. I will do some experimenting off my own when mines comes through. ( expected next week ).

Keep it in mind ………… It's £18.00 inclusive off delivery so the fact that it may not support remote firing is really no surprise. The question is, do you really need it. I think it would be your new bestest toy.

Cheers

Toto

Thanks Toto. I will order one very shortly and report back.

Hi bittern,

I don't think that you will regret it. You already have a good mastery of all things bugs. With a bit of practice, this can only help. Between this device and the possibility of playing with your normal flash ( off camera ) for additional fill in flash if required, it may just go a step further to producing the wow factor.

I'll look forward to see how you get on. Likewise, I'll post a picture or two when mine arrives and I get the chance to take it for a spin.

Cheers

Toto