| Photography Forum: Photography Help Forum: |
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Q. Vivitar 285HV
Asked by Randy Libner
(K=4084) on 3/29/2005
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Is this flash as good, accurate, and as user friendly as everyone says? Also wondering if the detacheable sensor is something anyone ever uses. I am guessing it's intended for close ups. I have always read a lot of good things about this flash, but wondering if there are any others that might be equal to or better for most general photography.
I usually shoot KR64 and once in a blue moon, a occasional roll of 400 print film.
I have a Canon AE-1 program, and an F1N
I have read that the Sunpak 383 Super is pretty well liked also.
Any opinions on these two flashes or any others are welcome.
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Dmitry Gringauz
(K=1157) - Comment Date 3/30/2005
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Yes, the 285HV is good, accurate, user-friendly, versatile and powerful flash unit.
It does get good reviews on photo forums and in photo mags, and has been around for a long time. It allows both manual and automatic control of the flash output.
I use mine as both a standalone and in combination with studio lights. 2-3 units make a good and light portable setup. For multi-flash setups I'd recommend using a flash meter, though.
The detacheable sensor is useful when you do not want the flash to be sitting right next to or on top of the camera. The the sensor allows the flash to measure flash light output at the camera position when the flash is somewhere else (within the reach of the cable, which is pretty long). It is generally not used for close-ups, you'd want a ring flash or equivalent for that.
I have not used the Sunpak unit you mention, but based on the specs 285HV appears to be a more versatile unit.
D.
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Randy Libner
(K=4084) - Comment Date 3/31/2005
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Thanks, Dmitry. I do have a flash meter.... but it died for some unknown reason.... It's a Seconic Digi Lite-F. Keep wondering if it can be fixed. Stored without batteries, and not used for two years, I tried using it recently and it is totally dead.... LCD screen won't even come on.
It was my best buddy when using a flash, especially with slide film. I rarely use a flash, but when I did, the flash meter was so reassuring to have. I appreciate the info on the sensor.... I knew it was detachable, but wasn't sure about the use.
Thanks much,
Randy
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