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    Ring Flash or LED Ring

    I have a good quality f/2.8 105mm Macro lens (albeit without image stabilisation) that I haven't used for while.

    This is mainly because when used outside, such as when trying to capture an insect on leaf for example, the slightest breeze causes the leaf to move, and sharpness is lost.

    Not helped of course in low-light conditions, when a slow shutter speed is in order.

    So, I am thinking that if I want to get more use out of the macro lens, a ring-flash or LED light ring would be an asset in allowing shorter exposure times.

    There is of course a very significant price difference between a proper ring-flash (especially the Canon MR14-EX), and the LED alternative (circa £30).

    What do you use, and have you had the chance to compare both options?

    I should add that my camera is the EOS 7D

    Dave

    N.B. for example: http://dx.com/p/meike-5500k-32-led-w...r-4-x-aa-93864
    Last edited by Dave_S; 21-09-2013, 21:18.
    Dave

    Website:- https://davesimaging.wixsite.com/mysite

    #2
    Re: Ring Flash or LED Ring

    Having read several reviews, this unit seems to score quite well, and at circa £136 from Amazon, is a reasonable for price the amount I times that I would likely use it.

    Here's a you-tube demo I found, actually using the Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX lens that I have.

    Path-Tech reviews the Singapore made Phoenix Brand, Smart Flash RF46, Digital Macro Ring Flash with full TTL capability. Included adapter rings are: 55mm, 58...


    Dave
    Dave

    Website:- https://davesimaging.wixsite.com/mysite

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      #3
      Re: Ring Flash or LED Ring

      Hi Dave_S

      Do not waste your money on the £30 LED ring, they are not a flash but a series of LED's lights. You also see there reflection in the picture. I bought one and its still in the back of the cupboard and then I purchased a Canon MR14-EX and that works very well,

      Hope that helps

      Phil

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        #4
        Re: Ring Flash or LED Ring

        Why not look at the Sigma alternative? An EM-140DG. About the only difference from a Canon one is that it can't be used to fire Canon flash guns - 580 and the like - but why would you do that when shooting macro? Has variable power settings for each side so you can introduce/eliminate shadows, all at a fraction of the cost of a Canon.

        Comment


          #5
          Re: Ring Flash or LED Ring

          Thanks for your input guys, much appreciated.

          Phil, after further reading, I have completely dismissed the LED ring lights or flash.

          I have now discovered that the Dorr (Canon fit) ring flash is identical to the Phoenix, and I mean identical, apart from the badge, and this can be bought from £83 via Amazon



          It is TTL, but what I have read, the flash cannot be dimmed, which would mean for Macro, small aperture shooting would be necessary, thus perhaps giving too greater depth of field.

          The Sigma is of course an option, but still around £300, which for me seems a bit of overkill for the limited use it would get.

          Dave
          Dave

          Website:- https://davesimaging.wixsite.com/mysite

          Comment


            #6
            Re: Ring Flash or LED Ring

            Another option is the Nissin MF18, which seems to get good reviews, and can be bought for £249, making it £50 cheaper than the Sigma.

            Anyone here any experience of this unit?



            Dave
            Dave

            Website:- https://davesimaging.wixsite.com/mysite

            Comment


              #7
              Re: Ring Flash or LED Ring

              Ok, after further research, decision made, and I have ordered the Nissin MF18 Ring Flash.

              I'll let you know how I find it, and hopefully with some macro examples.

              Dave
              Dave

              Website:- https://davesimaging.wixsite.com/mysite

              Comment


                #8
                Re: Ring Flash or LED Ring

                I look forward to hearing how you get on as I am looking at macro flashes and trying to decide which one to aim for.
                Andy
                _____________________________
                Canon EOS 5D MarkIV, 11-24mm f4, 24-70mm f2.8 II, 24-105mm f4, 70-200mm f2.8 IS II USM, 100-400mm f4.5-5.6 IS II USM, 100mm Macro, 50mm f1.4, Speedlite 600EX-RT, Manfrotto tripod
                http://www.flickr.com/photos/cyberdavis/

                Comment


                  #9
                  Re: Ring Flash or LED Ring

                  The Nissin MF18 arrived today, and first impressions are very good.

                  It feels well built, easy to attach and remove, and to set up using the menus in the colour LCD display.

                  Didn't get the chance to play with it until this evening, but it all seems to function as it should, and the Fine Macro mode gives another level of control, not as far as I'm aware, a feature on other ring-flashes.

                  The LED 'modelling lights' are very useful for viewing the subject and focusing.

                  Comes in a nice case, with internal foam cut-outs, providing a good level of protection.

                  If if has a negative point, it would be the fact that the cable from the master unit to the 'ring', cannot be unplugged, which might make it a tad difficult if your wanted to carry it around in your gadget back.

                  Will report further when I've had the chance to 'put it through its paces'.

                  Dave
                  Last edited by Dave_S; 25-09-2013, 15:02.
                  Dave

                  Website:- https://davesimaging.wixsite.com/mysite

                  Comment


                    #10
                    Re: Ring Flash or LED Ring

                    About the only difference from a Canon one is that it can't be used to fire Canon flash guns - 580 and the like - but why would you do that when shooting macro?
                    There are situations in macro where the ring flash lights the subject well, but the background ends up being black. By using a second flash (or more) to light the background, a more natural shot can be achieved.
                    Colin

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