Phoenix SmartFlash RF46N Macro Ring Flash for Nikon iTTL
Mar 12, 2013 15:12:50 #
Has anyone used the Phoenix SmartFlash RF46N Macro Ring Flash for Nikon iTTL?
Mar 12, 2013 17:49:51 #
I have one on the way, just ordered last evening. I bought it strictly based on all the great reviews. For the price, I felt I couldn't go wrong. After it arrives and I have a chance to test it, I will send you a pm with my assessment.
Mar 12, 2013 17:54:55 #
What lens will you be using it with? It did get very nice customer reviews on the BH website. I am considering either the Tamron 90 2.8 macro or the Tokina 100 2.8 macro.
Mar 12, 2013 18:44:41 #
I just bought a lens. I would have bought the Tokina 100 based upon recommendations on this forum and Rockwell's but at last minute got a great deal on a Nikon 105 that saved me some money.
Mar 12, 2013 23:29:41 #
I was quite impressed with Thom Hogan's "bonus coverage"of the Tamron 90 following his review of the Nikon 105, that I decided to go for the Tamron and the Phoenix Smart Flash, for about $550 for everything. I know Rockwell loves the Tokina but I also have a Tamron 17-50 2.8 that I am very happy with so i stuck with Tamron. 6 year warranty to boot.
Mar 13, 2013 06:41:46 #
They say the proof of the pudding is in the eating; like you, if I had a good experience with a brand I am loyal to it.
Mar 15, 2013 16:42:34 #
The Phoenix is very light weight, all plastic. The only control is an on/off switch. Is it worth $90, I think so but it does have a delicate feel to it. The photo was taken on manual, f22, 1/250, ISO 200. Don't judge the flash for the composition, I have a lot to learn in that regard.
Phoenix Flash & 105MM G lens
Mar 15, 2013 20:11:34 #
joehel2 wrote:
Is this image as captured, or did you crop? I ask because the flower exceeds aperture DoF.The photo was taken on manual, f22, 1/250, ISO 200.
Mar 15, 2013 20:17:15 #
I recently watched a YouTube video where a photographer Bryan Peterson took a very similar flower photo using a ring flash and a camera setting of f/22, 1/250, ISO 100, to negate the effects of the ambient light behind the flower. The Phoenix Flash at $90 seems like a good learning tool for a beginner in Macro photographer, which is what I am. I can't wait to try it out at the NY Botanical Garden. Come on Spring!
Mar 15, 2013 21:57:28 #
joehel2 wrote:
Can you set the flash to manual and reduce the power? I do this with my SB-400-- and it's critical for macro IMO.The Phoenix is very light weight, all plastic. The only control is an on/off switch.
Mar 16, 2013 09:16:21 #
Nikonian72 wrote:
I did crop slightly; here is original.Is this image as captured, or did you crop? I ask because the flower exceeds aperture DoF.
Original
Mar 16, 2013 09:19:35 #
LoneRangeFinder wrote:
I rushed to take a photo out of the box and later realized I didn't really have everything set properly in the camera (D300). Can you set the flash to manual and reduce the power? I do this with my SB-400-- and it's critical for macro IMO.
Note: I value your opinion.
Mar 16, 2013 14:28:57 #
joehel2 wrote:
Take a look at your original. Note that the un-opened blossom behind subject (lower-left), is sharper than the white center of your opened flower. You are slightly back-focused in this photo. The extended center of your flower exceeds your DoF, which is probably sufficient, had you captured proper focus.I did crop slightly; here is original.
Mar 16, 2013 14:42:51 #
Nikonian72 wrote:
I know what you mean; now that I have attempted a few macro shots, I have a greater appreciation of proper focus in macro photography and of the photos that you and some of the regular macro photogs post.joehel2 wrote:
Take a look at your original. Note that the un-opened blossom behind subject (lower-left), is sharper than the white center of your opened flower. You are slightly back-focused in this photo. The extended center of your flower exceeds your DoF, which is probably sufficient, had you captured proper focus.I did crop slightly; here is original.
Mar 16, 2013 14:52:37 #
joehel2 wrote:
Remember that DoF extends 1/3 in front of Plane-of-Focus, and 2/3s behind PoF. A little fore-focus can sometimes help.I have a greater appreciation of proper focus in macro photography . . .
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