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Ever had the chance to test out just how good the WR is ?

RobL
Posted 22/01/2016 - 21:53 Link
The Pentax AF 360 FGZ II is advertized by SRS as a weather-resistant auto flash unit (even in harsh outdoor conditions, such as in the rain or at locations subject to splashes and dust.) so I bought one a while ago in one of their discount weekends. DP Review at the time of this version's launch included the following quote: "Ricoh Imaging continues to refine our capabilities when it comes to producing products that enhance the photographic experience for our customers," said Jim Malcolm, Executive Vice President, Ricoh Imaging. "The introduction of the AF540FGZ II and AF360FGZ gives consumers access to a complete weather-sealed system which will enable them to approach photography with one less limitation in mind, thereby defining a new behaviors while reducing the boundaries for photographers."

However the operating manual says: "Do not expose the flash unit to water or moisture as there is the danger of electric shock". So, which is it? Either the manual is incorrect or the advertizing is deliberately misleading. And in case someone says that "complete weather-sealed" doesn't include rain take a look at the promo video for the K50 in the Ricoh website with the camera receiving a dousing from hose.
Edited by RobL: 22/01/2016 - 21:57
McGregNi
Posted 22/01/2016 - 23:01 Link
I think I'll go with the operating manual thanks, I don't think there's any way I'm going to be out flashing in the rain!
My Guides to the Pentax Digital Camera Flash Lighting System : Download here from the PentaxForums Homepage Article .... link
Pentax K7 with BG-4 Grip / Samyang 14mm f2.8 ED AS IF UMC / DA18-55mm f3.5-5.6 AL WR / SMC A28mm f2.8 / D FA 28-105mm / SMC F35-70 f3.5-4.5 / SMC A50mm f1.7 / Tamron AF70-300mm f4-5.6 Di LD macro / SMC M75-150mm f4.0 / Tamron Adaptall (CT-135) 135mm f2.8 / Asahi Takumar-A 2X tele-converter / Pentax AF-540FGZ (I & II) Flashes / Cactus RF60/X Flashes & V6/V6II Transceiver
RobL
Posted 23/01/2016 - 07:56 Link
That's not really the point is it? Either the flash is WR or not.
johnriley
Posted 23/01/2016 - 09:21 Link
The wording about exposure to moisture has always been there, and even appears IIRC in the waterproof WG series manuals. It may be a left over catch-all phrase that hasn't been thought about for a long time.

The cameras and lenses seem water resistant enough, so I'm sure the flashes will be too. If not then it would be arguable whether or not they were "fit for purpose."
Best regards, John
McGregNi
Posted 23/01/2016 - 09:57 Link
It could be some standard EU requirement for manuals for electrical type equipment used outdoors ... Maybe they are obliged by law to put that in ...?

I like the idea of WR on my flash as well ... But really, honestly, am I actually going to be out in the rain taking flash photos ... ?
My Guides to the Pentax Digital Camera Flash Lighting System : Download here from the PentaxForums Homepage Article .... link
Pentax K7 with BG-4 Grip / Samyang 14mm f2.8 ED AS IF UMC / DA18-55mm f3.5-5.6 AL WR / SMC A28mm f2.8 / D FA 28-105mm / SMC F35-70 f3.5-4.5 / SMC A50mm f1.7 / Tamron AF70-300mm f4-5.6 Di LD macro / SMC M75-150mm f4.0 / Tamron Adaptall (CT-135) 135mm f2.8 / Asahi Takumar-A 2X tele-converter / Pentax AF-540FGZ (I & II) Flashes / Cactus RF60/X Flashes & V6/V6II Transceiver
Edited by McGregNi: 23/01/2016 - 09:59
johnriley
Posted 23/01/2016 - 11:55 Link
Quote:
But really, honestly, am I actually going to be out in the rain taking flash photos ... ?

If you do, you might be the only one and you might get some really unique results?
Best regards, John
punkrockemo
Posted 23/01/2016 - 12:05 Link
Quote:
I don't think there's any way I'm going to be out flashing in the rain!

it does not matter if its raining or not you can still get arrested for that sort of thing!
McGregNi
Posted 23/01/2016 - 12:09 Link
You took the bait !

Well, I suppose flowers might look nice with rain and some flash .... I guess they won't mind waiting around getting wet while I get the shots either .....
My Guides to the Pentax Digital Camera Flash Lighting System : Download here from the PentaxForums Homepage Article .... link
Pentax K7 with BG-4 Grip / Samyang 14mm f2.8 ED AS IF UMC / DA18-55mm f3.5-5.6 AL WR / SMC A28mm f2.8 / D FA 28-105mm / SMC F35-70 f3.5-4.5 / SMC A50mm f1.7 / Tamron AF70-300mm f4-5.6 Di LD macro / SMC M75-150mm f4.0 / Tamron Adaptall (CT-135) 135mm f2.8 / Asahi Takumar-A 2X tele-converter / Pentax AF-540FGZ (I & II) Flashes / Cactus RF60/X Flashes & V6/V6II Transceiver
RobL
Posted 23/01/2016 - 18:28 Link
The worst that can happen with a WR camera/lens is if it lets in water or dust. I just don't fancy getting an electric shock if the WR flash doesn't do what it says on the box! I think I'll seek clarity.
johnriley
Posted 23/01/2016 - 18:40 Link
Comment Image


WG3 using interval timer and built in flash. That's waterproof.
Best regards, John
fatspider
Posted 24/01/2016 - 00:09 Link
Were you not concerned about the heat on that shot John? Dishwashers can get damned hot!
My Names Alan, and I'm a lensaholic.
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johnriley
Posted 24/01/2016 - 01:15 Link
I ran a cold water pre-rinse program, without any detergent added. The heat generated by a full cycle would probably be a bit much.
Best regards, John
petrochemist
Posted 24/01/2016 - 13:48 Link
I wish Pentax (& other camera manufacturers) would give some better guidance of weather sealing. An initial IP rating would IMO be ideal, adding a note to say something like 'as lenses are changed etc the seals may degrade so this rating may not last' would I think cover them if an older camera failed under less severe conditions

I must say I've always been impressed with the degree of sealing of my K7, though as most of my lenses are not weather sealed I tend not to use it in poor weather much.
Mike
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Pentax:K5ii, K7, K100D, DA18-55, DA10-17, DA55-300, DA50-200, F100-300, F50, DA35 AL, 4* M50, 2* M135, Helicoid extension, Tak 300 f4 (& 6 film bodies)
3rd Party: Bigmos (Sigma 150-500mm OS HSM),2* 28mm, 100mm macro, 28-200 zoom, 35-80 zoom, 80-200 zoom, 80-210 zoom, 300mm M42, 600 mirror, 1000-4000 scope, 50mm M42, enlarger lenses, Sony & micro 4/3 cameras with various PK mounts, Zenit E...
Far to many tele-converters, adapters, project parts & extension tubes etc.

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McGregNi
Posted 24/01/2016 - 15:39 Link
johnriley wrote:
I ran a cold water pre-rinse program, without any detergent added. The heat generated by a full cycle would probably be a bit much.

That's what so great about this forum. .... The level of technical insights and pointers from experienced people never ceases to amaze ! .
My Guides to the Pentax Digital Camera Flash Lighting System : Download here from the PentaxForums Homepage Article .... link
Pentax K7 with BG-4 Grip / Samyang 14mm f2.8 ED AS IF UMC / DA18-55mm f3.5-5.6 AL WR / SMC A28mm f2.8 / D FA 28-105mm / SMC F35-70 f3.5-4.5 / SMC A50mm f1.7 / Tamron AF70-300mm f4-5.6 Di LD macro / SMC M75-150mm f4.0 / Tamron Adaptall (CT-135) 135mm f2.8 / Asahi Takumar-A 2X tele-converter / Pentax AF-540FGZ (I & II) Flashes / Cactus RF60/X Flashes & V6/V6II Transceiver
joostdh
Posted 24/01/2016 - 22:16 Link
I love the experiences shared in the thread. Sorry to say that I've not attempted more than a light drizzle. But reading this I feel confident now that's weather will not hold me back any time in the future. Thank you everyone for sharing.
Pentax K-1| D-FA 24-70mm | FA 43mm F1.9 Ltd | FA* 85mm F1.4 | D-FA 100mm F2.8 Macro WR | DA* 200mm F2.8 | Pentax AF 540FGZ

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