View Full Version : Flash Brackets - your recommendation


Lyndon_L_Ong
06-26-2006, 11:27 AM
I am looking for a flash bracket.

Any recommendations? For a D70s with SB-600

available locally? Price range pls.

TIA!:)

mikeli
06-27-2006, 04:29 PM
Hi Done,

I recommend the Newton flash bracket No idea if its available locally anyway you can check this link : http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=326962&is=REG&addedTroughType=search

edlin_roguel
06-27-2006, 05:09 PM
Im using a Stroboframe vh-2000. Great flash bracket. Available in Hidalgo for around 4K+. :)

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=52784&is=REG&addedTroughType=search

paul borromeo
06-27-2006, 10:14 PM
i use a newton flash bracket. its foldable and very easy to store in a camera bag. my bag is a velocity 7 and in it is the flash, the d200, the flash bracket, and assorted gear.

i bought this at bhphotovideo about 179 US.

hope this helps

rosalie_gomez
06-30-2006, 08:43 AM
@paul

That looks like a good option if ever I need a flash bracket. Easy to bring around. :)

Kieron Tan
06-30-2006, 10:57 PM
I'm using Stroboframe with VH2000:
http://static.flickr.com/22/27326940_06f49ef81b.jpg

Lyndon_L_Ong
07-01-2006, 01:57 PM
Thanks guys for replying!

So I have two options here.

The Newton which will costs around 13k with all the accs.

or the Stroboframe which will cost almost half....

Hmmmm....

Newtons has a low profile design which is great for storing...

I wonder of the weight difference though...

Lyndon_L_Ong
07-01-2006, 02:41 PM
I have a friend who's selling his Stroboframe press T model...

http://shop.com.edgesuite.net/ccimg.shop.com/220000/229200/229209/products/27047996.jpg

for 4.5k. is this a good buy already?

online shops in the internet have varied prices from $88 - $175

so does anyone have this model already? How much when you bought it?

TIA:)

Matthew Lizares
07-02-2006, 09:13 AM
I have a friend who's selling his Stroboframe press T model...

http://shop.com.edgesuite.net/ccimg.shop.com/220000/229200/229209/products/27047996.jpg

for 4.5k. is this a good buy already?

online shops in the internet have varied prices from $88 - $175

so does anyone have this model already? How much when you bought it?

TIA:)

check out falcon eyes brackets at hidalgo ... they have models that are stroboframe look alike (i have one and the handle has a stroboframe stamped on it) the good thing is its half the price. after practicing using the bracket though ... i ended up not using it it makes the whole set up heavy.

Eric Dino
07-10-2006, 12:12 PM
Hi Lyndon,

The Falcon Eyes Flash Bracket is already out of stock in Hidalgo. You can buy one directly from the supplier here in the country through Aperture Trading for a special discounted price of Php 1k only. Retail price used to be Php 1.5k. You can call Aperture Trading at 733-89-91. Stroboframe is also a good brand and better than Falcon Eyes. Better check the screw of Falcon Eyes, some of the ones being sold in Quiapo already has some rust building up. Better to get new units from Aperture or Stroboframe that would cost you around Php 4.5 to 6.5k at Avenue Photo Supply c/o Wilson. You can call him at Tel. No. 733-54-74.

Lyndon_L_Ong
07-10-2006, 06:58 PM
Thanks for all your views guys!

I already have a quote from wilson.

The VH2000 would cost me 4.8k and the
SC--Cord additional 3.8K!

Is it advisable just to use the commander mode instead of the sc-- flash cord?

any thoughts??

kengo
07-10-2006, 07:41 PM
I own the press T, it does the job well, very durable, but the added weight is not welcome.

I don't suggest using a bracket with the commander mode, it will slow you down since you have to wait for the internal flash to recycle every shot, you will also eat at more battery from your camera. Add do the fact that you can't change the channel and freq. of the internal flash's commander mode, anyone can easily trigger your flash.

Lyndon_L_Ong
07-10-2006, 11:44 PM
true true..

BTW Ken, how does the Press T works? I cant' seem to figure out how can it rotate the flash when using portrait config?

When I flipped the bracket, it seems the flash is still in horizontal configuration... but still on top....

kengo
07-11-2006, 12:21 PM
Unlike other brackets, the Press T will flip the flash and not rotate it, meaning if you are in vertical position your flash will also be in a vertical postion. I think this is better, since your image is now taller than wider, so why should'nt your light be similar.

Derick_Gamboa
07-11-2006, 02:38 PM
Have you seen this? http://www.reallyrightstuff.com

http://www.reallyrightstuff.com/flash/index.html I have this set, and the engineering work is awesome. Pricey, but i'm not going to be a judge of that, you will. I also use the stroboframe, and for hand held, either of them works. But once mounted on a tripod, shifting between horizontal (landscape) and vertical (portraiture), I prefer the RRS Flash Arm.

Kieron Tan
07-13-2006, 09:17 AM
Have you seen this? http://www.reallyrightstuff.com

http://www.reallyrightstuff.com/flash/index.html I have this set, and the engineering work is awesome. Pricey, but i'm not going to be a judge of that, you will. I also use the stroboframe, and for hand held, either of them works. But once mounted on a tripod, shifting between horizontal (landscape) and vertical (portraiture), I prefer the RRS Flash Arm.

Where did you buy this kind of bracket? Looks great.

dave_trinidad
07-13-2006, 09:38 AM
Thanks guys for replying!

So I have two options here.

The Newton which will costs around 13k with all the accs.

or the Stroboframe which will cost almost half....

Hmmmm....

Newtons has a low profile design which is great for storing...

I wonder of the weight difference though...


hi Lyndon,

I bought a Stroboframe VH-2000 from the States last year. I didn't know at that time I needed to buy additional hotshoe and cables for my Nikon.

I already lost interest in using it and the unit was just kept unopened to this day. You can have it for P4.3k if you like.

dave

Marco_Ingco
08-31-2006, 02:42 AM
I'm using Stroboframe with VH2000:
http://static.flickr.com/22/27326940_06f49ef81b.jpg

I am looking at this picture and it seems to pretty much cover the right side of the camera. I have a Nikon D70 and it has an AF Assist Lamp on that side. Would this be covered?

paul chiongson
08-31-2006, 11:22 AM
Wimberly - its light and modular but a bit expensive and I don't know if its available here in the Philippines.

darwinandres
08-31-2006, 03:38 PM
I am looking at this picture and it seems to pretty much cover the right side of the camera. I have a Nikon D70 and it has an AF Assist Lamp on that side. Would this be covered?

I think there will be no problem with that 'coz when you use your external flash the AF-Assist light will be the infra red of your external flash and not on-camera AF-assist light. You won't be using the bracket if you won't use the external flash di ba?

:)

Rob Ponce
10-27-2007, 03:45 AM
I apologize for reviving an old thread. I've been lusting to get a flash bracket. I've tried Stroboframe like this one:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/117422-REG/Stroboframe_310_700_Pro_RL_Bracket.html

But this particular model is not as sturdy and IMO, its not heavy duty and can't handle heavy loads (camera, grip, 2 batts and 70-200 2.8IS lens). Not to mention, it adds a lot of weight.

I checked CB but they are too big and heavy.

The Newton Folding bracket seems to fill my needs:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/326962-REG/Newton_Camera_Brackets_DI100FR2_Di100FR2_Folding_F lash_Rotator.html

Anyone has this model? Any feedback? TIA.

zandy_marantal
10-27-2007, 04:08 AM
Check out the offerings from Really Right Stuff (http://www.reallyrightstuff.com/rrs/items.asp?Cc=FlashCamera&iTpStatus=0&Tp=&Bc=).

I have their Portrait Perfect Package and I love it. Not so heavy and compact.

2 new flashes and a bracket? Sounds like a someone's getting ready to shoot a wedding. :Grin:

Rob Ponce
10-27-2007, 04:37 AM
Idol Zandy,

RRS is way too expensive for me - add all the little goodies and I'll be spending more than $400. I need extra dough to buy a 2nd body soon (I'm down to 1 body again) so $200 is the max I could do.

I sold my 2 580EX Mk1 because used ones go at least $300 each and the new MK2's sell for $340. So makes good sense to upgrade them since the new ones have weathersealing and metal foot (not to mention, better resale value).

Aside from the 2nd body, I still "need" 2 L's to complete my kit (35L and 135L).

:)






Check out the offerings from Really Right Stuff (http://www.reallyrightstuff.com/rrs/items.asp?Cc=FlashCamera&iTpStatus=0&Tp=&Bc=).

I have their Portrait Perfect Package and I love it. Not so heavy and compact.

2 wew flashes and a bracket? Sounds like a someone's getting ready to shoot a wedding. :Grin:

zandy_marantal
10-27-2007, 05:06 AM
@Rob

Their Wedding Pro flash bracket is only $150. (Though I think you would need an L-plate as well)

Good luck with your search.

Rob Ponce
10-27-2007, 06:28 AM
Thats a very good price for the bracket, unfortunately, the L-plate costs more than the bracket itself, LOL :Grin:

http://www.reallyrightstuff.com/rrs/Itemdesc.asp?ic=BGE2%2DL30&eq=&Tp=

@Rob

Their Wedding Pro flash bracket is only $150. (Though I think you would need an L-plate as well)

Good luck with your search.

zandy_marantal
10-27-2007, 07:55 AM
Thats a very good price for the bracket, unfortunately, the L-plate costs more than the bracket itself, LOL :Grin:

http://www.reallyrightstuff.com/rrs/Itemdesc.asp?ic=BGE2%2DL30&eq=&Tp=


True. But with people dumping their 30D's for the new model, you can get a good price on a used one.

Here's one selling for $100 shipped:
http://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/583287/0#5103532

errol_roldan
10-27-2007, 05:28 PM
check out the flash bracket echo store is selling.

http://www.pinoyphotography.org/forum/index.php?topic=17939.0

:)

Franz A.D. Morales
10-27-2007, 07:13 PM
I'm thinking of getting a flash bracket too, what kind will let the flash reach the end of a lens? I'll be using a bellows and a 70-200mm zoom... for macro work, instead of getting an expensive ring flash, I'll just use a bracket(s) and two of my existing flashes... Wimberley I hear is great but expensive, any ideas how much this costs and where to get one? Other suggestions? Thanks!:)

Bordoy Viterbo
10-27-2007, 07:23 PM
I purchased a stroboframe last year and honestly, I just used it once. I find the thing too bulky, painful if it hits you with its sharp corners and edges, too heavy & it sometimes hits the top of the camera when you swing it too fast. The offcam cord is also a nuisance. I havent seen the top photographers using it. Its totally a waste of money IMHO. I cant understand and remember why I decided to purchase one.
:Mad:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/images/largeimages/325513.jpg

Antonio L. Abong
10-27-2007, 10:11 PM
Thanks for all your views guys!

I already have a quote from wilson.

The VH2000 would cost me 4.8k and the
SC--Cord additional 3.8K!

Is it advisable just to use the commander mode instead of the sc-- flash cord?

any thoughts??

I suggest you use the sc 29 flash cord.

Winthrop Banez
10-28-2007, 05:20 AM
Hi Guys:

Pardon my ignorance but what are the virtues of a flash bracket? The photo in this thread shows it mounted on a tripod. Does that mean that it's not as useful if hand held? What's a good but affordable brand and model?

Thanks!

Derick_Gamboa
10-28-2007, 09:42 AM
Where did you buy this kind of bracket? Looks great.

I ordered it online from RRS.

http://www.pbase.com/manilaman04/image/76115451.jpg

Rob Ponce
10-29-2007, 10:42 AM
Thanks all for your inputs.

Just got myself a Newton Di100FR2 Folding Flash Rotator bracket + the optional flash mount, just under $220 shipped.

drixeldevelos
10-29-2007, 12:35 PM
Hi Guys:

Pardon my ignorance but what are the virtues of a flash bracket? The photo in this thread shows it mounted on a tripod. Does that mean that it's not as useful if hand held? What's a good but affordable brand and model?

Thanks!

There are a number of threads on this subject matter at dpreview for your reference. Michael Meissner's several posts on Flash Bracket are very helpful. This includes his preference in using the Demb Flash Diffuser without the flash bracket or just a support to it.

Try going to this link - http://www.dembflashproducts.com/diffuser/. To the site's right area there's a link "Flash Bracket Home" for a short explanation on its usefulness. For an exhaustive read on Flash Brackets, googling it may help.

Mine? I just bought VersaFlip from EchoStore (Bryan - 09178254838). After doing my research, its the most lightweight so far in terms of cost and weight. I added Demb Flash Diffuser as well.

Try to visit the EchoStore's website - http://echografika.com/joomla/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=50&Itemid=27

I hope this helps.

vicoyrisma
10-29-2007, 12:46 PM
I ordered it online from RRS.

http://www.pbase.com/manilaman04/image/76115451.jpg

Could you share how long it takes to get an order from online, as well as the total cost? This bracket looks very nice...

art cabinian
10-29-2007, 01:11 PM
I'm thinking of getting a flash bracket too, what kind will let the flash reach the end of a lens? I'll be using a bellows and a 70-200mm zoom... for macro work, instead of getting an expensive ring flash, I'll just use a bracket(s) and two of my existing flashes... Wimberley I hear is great but expensive, any ideas how much this costs and where to get one? Other suggestions? Thanks!:)

You can check this out for the Wimberley flash bracket...
http://www.tripodhead.com/products/flash-bracket-macro-brackets.cfm


I use this with my 105mm macro.

Hope it helps.

Al Gonzales
10-29-2007, 11:21 PM
Could you share how long it takes to get an order from online, as well as the total cost? This bracket looks very nice...

interested in your online ordering experience as well...

Brent_Co
10-30-2007, 03:14 AM
I wanted the RRS also at first, but its not that economical. I can buy something else more useful with the money. So I decided to with Echostore's Versaflip. It just works

Winthrop Banez
10-30-2007, 06:38 AM
There are a number of threads on this subject matter at dpreview for your reference. Michael Meissner's several posts on Flash Bracket are very helpful. This includes his preference in using the Demb Flash Diffuser without the flash bracket or just a support to it.

Try going to this link - http://www.dembflashproducts.com/diffuser/. To the site's right area there's a link "Flash Bracket Home" for a short explanation on its usefulness. For an exhaustive read on Flash Brackets, googling it may help.

Mine? I just bought VersaFlip from EchoStore (Bryan - 09178254838). After doing my research, its the most lightweight so far in terms of cost and weight. I added Demb Flash Diffuser as well.

Try to visit the EchoStore's website - http://echografika.com/joomla/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=50&Itemid=27

I hope this helps.

Thank you Drixel

Franz A.D. Morales
10-30-2007, 07:48 AM
You can check this out for the Wimberley flash bracket...
http://www.tripodhead.com/products/flash-bracket-macro-brackets.cfm


I use this with my 105mm macro.

Hope it helps.

You ordered this online too? How much did you pay all in all? Also, what's the compatibility thing about? I have no idea what the site was referring to...:Grin:

drixeldevelos
10-31-2007, 07:58 AM
Thank you Drixel


Winthrop, Sir,

Youre'welcome! I traced the other thread on this where Michael Meissner tackled in similar fashion the question you posed. Try to visit -

http://fourthirdsphoto.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=17655

art cabinian
10-31-2007, 09:38 AM
You ordered this online too? How much did you pay all in all? Also, what's the compatibility thing about? I have no idea what the site was referring to...:Grin:

Franz,

I bought it in Singapore from Cathay Photo (Peninsula branch). Don't remember how much..but definitely more than 100 sing. The compatibility is regarding your ballhead and plate. You cannot use a Manfrotto ballhead with this, it should be either a AcraSwiss or Markins type. You can google these two kinds of ballhead and compare vs the Manfrotto.

Hope this helps.


Art

Franz A.D. Morales
10-31-2007, 10:08 AM
@Art: Crap, I was just about to purchase a Manfrotto head... hmmm... is the Wimberley available in Hong Kong? Maybe I can check it out there...

Lyndon_L_Ong
10-31-2007, 10:44 AM
Whoa! was just lurkin around and notice my name on the today's post thread! :D

Anyway, to update this thread. I already got a Newton Flash Bracket for my D200 and SB800 and it works fine. Very very sturdy indeed. Great for Events shoots.

art cabinian
10-31-2007, 11:49 AM
@Art: Crap, I was just about to purchase a Manfrotto head... hmmm... is the Wimberley available in Hong Kong? Maybe I can check it out there...

@Franz...not sure if its available there. Maybe you could check the Wimberley website if they have an offficial distributor there. Btw, make sure if you ever get the Manfrotto (if you're not going to be using the Wimberley) that the ballhead can take the load of your camera, lens, flash and whatever you add to it...got the unfortunate experience with my Manfrotto before and decided to change it to a Markins M10.

Franz A.D. Morales
10-31-2007, 11:58 AM
@Art: Will do that! Thanks for the advice Art! The heaviest load I'll be using is a camera, bellows and an old manual, all metal 70-200mm macro zoom! A focusing rail as well if I get one... I saw the Wimberley head and that thing was a beauty! Anyway, the Wimberley flash bracket is my first priority... I tried out most brackets being sold here and most do not reach to the end of my bellows and lens...

art cabinian
10-31-2007, 12:35 PM
@Art: Will do that! Thanks for the advice Art! The heaviest load I'll be using is a camera, bellows and an old manual, all metal 70-200mm macro zoom! A focusing rail as well if I get one... I saw the Wimberley head and that thing was a beauty! Anyway, the Wimberley flash bracket is my first priority... I tried out most brackets being sold here and most do not reach to the end of my bellows and lens...

@Franz..your welcome. Saw your pictures in the flower thread..nice ones. I have serious doubts about the Manfrotto ballhead and the 70-200mm (metal at that)...I was just using the 105mm micro when the ballhead crept on me...the Manfrotto focusing rail is heavy and kinda difficult to use in the field..I guess its more for the studio shots..have one and haven't been using it. Was able to track down the price of the bracket in Singapore...353 Sing...kinda expensive but you definitely will use it a lot when shooting macro. Good luck.

Franz A.D. Morales
10-31-2007, 12:43 PM
@Art: Thanks! I handheld the flash to get that shot, which is why I'm in desperate need for a flash bracket, handholding the flash is a drag... I was thinking of a Manfrotto pan head, forgot the model, but it was the one with knobs (not the long handle) and looks sturdy enough, have to try it out with my rig first though... Hmm, I guess a focusing rail isn't that important since the bellows have a rail of its own anyway... 353 Sing$? Gosh... quite expensive, but definitely worth it for sure... Hope I get my hands on one soon!

Winthrop Banez
11-01-2007, 06:29 AM
Winthrop, Sir,

Youre'welcome! I traced the other thread on this where Michael Meissner tackled in similar fashion the question you posed. Try to visit -

http://fourthirdsphoto.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=17655

thanks again