Flash Unit for Nikon D500: Morning all. I am looking for recommendations for an external flash unit for the D500 that won't break the bank. My main photo focus is wildlife, especially...

Saleavitt10 Loc: Maine

Morning all. I am looking for recommendations for an external flash unit for the D500 that won't break the bank. My main photo focus is wildlife, especially birds. I won't be using the flash that much so looking for something less expensive than the Nikon offerings. It will mainly be used in shots in the woods with a Better Beemer for that extra fill light you sometimes need. Any advice will be appreciated.

alandg46 Loc: Boerne, Texas

Flashpoint from Adorama works well for me. Not real expensive and I like the Li-on batteries it comes with. Take a look.

Saleavitt10 Loc: Maine

alandg46 wrote:

Flashpoint from Adorama works well for me. Not real expensive and I like the Li-on batteries it comes with. Take a look.

Thanks. I will look at that.

jsmangis Loc: Peoria, IL

If you don't mind buying used, some of the earlier Nikon units like the SB800 and SB600 can be found on EBay for a fraction of their original price. I have been using both with my D610 for several years now with no problems. They also sync perfectly with Nikon's CLS system.

Saleavitt10 Loc: Maine

jsmangis wrote:

If you don't mind buying used, some of the earlier Nikon units like the SB800 and SB600 can be found on EBay for a fraction of their original price. I have been using both with my D610 for several years now with no problems. They also sync perfectly with Nikon's CLS system.

Thanks for the info. Will check EBay and other "used/refurb" sources.

Bill Munny Loc: Aurora, Colorado

There is an SB700 for sale, brand new, for $250 on UHH in for sale area. Good deal. I have an SB800, bought used and it is great, use it on my D750.

Saleavitt10 Loc: Maine

Bill Munny wrote:

There is an SB700 for sale, brand new, for $250 on UHH in for sale area. Good deal. I have an SB800, bought used and it is great, use it on my D750.

Thanks for the heads-up! I'll check it out.

Nikonian72 Loc: Chico CA

I strongly recommend higher-end Nissin or Yongnou speedlights (about half the price of comparable Nikon and Canon speedlights). A high Guide Number is most desirable for distant illumination.
Read FAQ: How do Popular Speedlights Compare for GN? at http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-91636-1.html

P.S. - I purchased a used Nissin Di866 on eBay for less than $100. Compare GN in chart above.
Here is another available now: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Nissin-Speedlite-Di866-Shoe-Mount-Flash-/201676391934?hash=item2ef4d985fe:g:yuIAAOSwTA9X6Alb

Nikonian72 Loc: Chico CA

For illumination of birds at distance, I recommend a Better Beamer 'flash extender' added to a standard speedlight: http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-380557-1.html

Saleavitt10 Loc: Maine

Nikonian72 wrote:

For illumination of birds at distance, I recommend a Better Beamer 'flash extender' added to a standard speedlight: http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-380557-1.html

Yes, I have a Better Beemer on the list to get along with the flash. I will check out the two brands you recommened in your other post.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

Saleavitt10 wrote:

Morning all. I am looking for recommendations for an external flash unit for the D500 that won't break the bank. My main photo focus is wildlife, especially birds. I won't be using the flash that much so looking for something less expensive than the Nikon offerings. It will mainly be used in shots in the woods with a Better Beemer for that extra fill light you sometimes need. Any advice will be appreciated.

Yongnuo (China) and Nissan (Japan) are good, popular alternatives.

brent46 Loc: Grand Island, NY

Attached photo taken with a D7100 with Yongnuo 568EX bounced in ittl mode. This flash is available for under $100.

(Download)

mas24 Loc: Southern CA

I bought a Sunpak about 8 years ago that is still useful. I now use a Yongnuo. The 568EX and the 685 will work on the Nikon's. But check each one to see if it satisfies your needs. Each one is under $150.

Al Beatty Loc: Boise, Idaho

Hi Group,

I've had good luck with Yongnuo and Altura flashes (TTL units are usually less than $100) on my D750 & D300 as well as the older SB600 & 800's I've had around for a number of years. I've heard good things about the Nissan flashes but not used them. Take care & ...

Saleavitt10 Loc: Maine

Thanks for all the reply's. UHH's members are the best!