Why do i need a proper flash?

These are a couple of shots from our local fiesta last weekend which might illustrate why flash could be needed in daylight scenes.

The flamenco dancers were directly between me and a very low sun, as is evidenced by the shadows. I used flash here to throw a bit of light onto their costumes and faces in an otherwise wholly backlit scene.

One was taken with a naked AF540FGZ (no diffuser or modifier). Actually the other should have been as well, but it didn't fire because it hadn't recharged in time.

Hopefully you can distinguish the difference. If not, perhaps you don't need flash.

And yes, the male dancer does look like Mick Hucknall, but it's not him.

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BTW: The 'official' photographer used a Nikon 90D and a zoom lens of some sort, no lens hood, and on-board flash, but only used the flash when it really got dark.

Dunno Gareth, we never quite made it to first names. I think my Zima frame, hearing aids, and guide dog might have put her off. I'm pretty sure it wasn't my colostomy bag, she didn't get close enough to have seen it.

Especially for you, note the catchlight in her left eye (trying to keep on topic).

- Is that a banana in your pocket or are you just pleased to see me?

- No it's my colostomy bag.

As far as flashguns are concerned, the Metz 48 AF1 is cheaper and more powerful than the Pentax 360. Its only flaw is its Byzantine menu system (I have yet to get it to fire in wireless mode, having owned it for six months )

Oh dear oh dear - despite being a complete flash noobie, I managed to get my AF360 to fire in wireless P-TTL mode within 5 minutes of putting batteries in it (although I did have to read the manual first, which isn't my natural habit :lol Shows there are advantages to useing the manufacturer's brand!

Buy a powerful old manual flash. Much cheaper, much more reliable, and much more educational.

And much more idiot-proof. (No offence intended.)

G

Appart from the Cobra D650 mentioned are there any other good old manual flashes i should look out for?

I made my cardboard flash diffuser today. Very impressed with the results and well worth the half hour effort.

Vivitar, Sunpak, Pentax (AF500FTZ, AF400T, AF280T).

If it's an old Vivitar, check the voltage at the hotshoe when the flash is switched on. If it's in the hundreds it might be best to avoid it.

By far the best is the AF500FTZ. They are sometimes on sale on Ebay for silly money, but you should be able to get one for £75.00 or less, with a little patience.

G

Sorry but getting back to the topic.

Is it Fernando Torres? The dancer with his castanets in his hands? More slap than usual but if its not Torres its his twin sister.

I think you got the exposure just right, Peter.

G