flash for Pentax ds primary for weddings

The odd thing I've found is that despite my K-m only supporting P-TTL it still works in auto mode with Program flashes. When I clip the AF240Z on and set both to Program mode it sets the aperture according to the ISO (matches the scale on the back of the flash) and then sets a shutter speed to suit. Providing the subject is within flash range the results are usually spot on, and while the flash is recharging it flicks back to flashless settings. It also does this with the AF200SA and AF200T, although those aren't as useful for an on-camera flash as they lack the bounce head.

wow what an amazing responce and yes i was too quick too write late at nite thanks for all the info i can understand all the responses . dixlia is a writeing thing and oganising but i can understand phograhy ,
my spelling is not the best but i hope you can understand what im saying

so as my ds can take almost losts of flashes which one shall i get in my budget so this comment on thes cameras so which to choose one more thing i can remmber things but I need a siple phrase when use flash or not for depth of field i hate it when peopl who are closed together and some our in focus and some our not also Iv notice the ds will focus on some thing which is not the primary subject may me it the way it foucus and the was it does it

I cant thank everyone ebough its great having a dslr i dont want to take the fun out of it i love photgrahy just a bit eager making sure i take the right pictures thanks so whch flash i will have to look around cant wait

hi a prime lens instead of flash how does that work can you tell us and may me offer some good not too expensive im dead intreated thanks

Hi George,

I can understand what you write, but it would be easier to read if you use standard punctuation with capital letter after a full stop.

A prime lens is often of a wider aperture than a zoom lens, and can therefore be used in lower light. I find that my 50mm 1.7 lens can be used indoors without flash in most lighting conditions.

But the DOF is very shallow at wide open aperture, and focusing is very critical. Also, in low light the autofocus is not very effective, which means it is better to use manual focus.

You seem to be in luck, just pick and choose any of the flashes mentioned above. The higher the guide number the better, and a tilt-and-swivel head is more versatile.

[quote:3496ace15f="terje-l"]Hi George,

I can understand what you write, but it would be easier to read if you use standard punctuation with capital letter after a full stop.

A prime lens is often of a wider aperture than a zoom lens, and can therefore be used in lower light. I find that my 50mm 1.7 lens can be used indoors without flash in most lighting conditions.

But the DOF is very shallow at wide open aperture, and focusing is very critical. Also, in low light the autofocus is not very effective, which means it is better to use manual focus.


Thanks Telrje- for you help I will look out for flash and look for primary lens.If the light is ok then I can use it if not I can turn the flash on. Any lens or flash is the best one & can i take a few pictures or have too wait for the flash to warm up ta george .

The problem with the flash that its range within it is capable to produce sufficient light is limited to 3 to 5 metres (depends on the circumstances). If the subject is within this range, it is OK, but anything behind this area will nearly be totally dark if the exposure is not enough for the level of ambient light. That’s why a prime lens (f1,4-f2,0) is needed. You can use it either without flash, or it can lighten the background where flash is used.
There are several cheap used non AF primes around, sorry am not an expert of them, maybe others can help. I know the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 EX DC HSM and Pentax SMCP-FA 50mm f/1.4 both are good AF lenses and as used you can buy them at an affordable price

Actually I do not know if Sigma's HSM fit to Pentax DS, maybe others can help...

No they won't.
It's with the K1 series some cameras got SDM/HSM support

it also depends on what lens you use and therefore which zoom setting on the flash.
With wide angle the flash beam is wider and the flash doesn't reach far but with a higher zoom setting the flash light is more focused and you can go quite far then.


To throw in another flash in the mix, the new Metz 36 AF-4 might be something for you.
The only thing is it's a very simple flash without any advance feature and it only has a full automatic mode (P-TTL) so basically you should see it as an upgrade to you build in camera flash with a tilt head though and that can be useful.
The flash is around the £69. The older flashes does offer you more feature for around the same price though but will you use that, that's something you should find out.

A used SMC Pentax-FA 35mm f2.0 AL is also a good and affordable priced AF lens for indoor wedding photos. Must admit I have never owned, but on the web you can find lots of very positive user reports about.