Ring Flash

[mazawatea]

I would like to purchase a Macro ring flash, but I am surprised at the wide range of prices. Can anyone point me to a comparson site? Will some ring flash substitute for standard flash guns?
I have look through PHOTOPLUS, back to May 2009, but cannot find any testing or articles.
Any ideas Please.
John

[donoreo]

There are two different things to consider. Ring flash and ring light. A flash of course acts as a flash and can be used for portraits, but is not as flexible as a regular flash. A ring light is constant light, often with no flash capability. This is great for lighting macro shots (the primary use for ring flashes and ring lights). Ring lights can be used for portraits as well, but are not as nice (light is a little harsh).

The big difference: price. A ring light can be had for under 50 if you look around (check Neewer on amazon).

[mazawatea]

Thanks for your explanation. I missed the different terms, I need to test each type.
Thanks
John

[donoreo]

Another magazine...Digital SLR did a review in their September issue of cheap ring lights.

[Frank-Kautz]

Hi John,

Something else to keep in mind, not every ring light or ring flash will work with every camera. Double check compatibility before you buy. (I didn't, so I have a useless ring flash waiting for me to upgrade my camera.)

Good luck,

Frank

[Dan Cartell]

Originally Posted by mazawatea

I would like to purchase a Macro ring flash, but I am surprised at the wide range of prices. Can anyone point me to a comparson site? Will some ring flash substitute for standard flash guns?
I have look through PHOTOPLUS, back to May 2009, but cannot find any testing or articles.
Any ideas Please.
John

Im pretty certain there was a mini comparison test of a few macro ring flashes in Photoplus in the last 18 months- I remember the best one was the Sigma macro ring flash ....., I will have a look through my back issues and tell you the exact issue in a day or two.......

[Dan Cartell]

Originally Posted by Dan Cartell

Im pretty certain there was a mini comparison test of a few macro ring flashes in Photoplus in the last 18 months- I remember the best one was the Sigma macro ring flash ....., I will have a look through my back issues and tell you the exact issue in a day or two.......

I flicked through some back issues and I found the mini group test of macro ring flashes in Issue 47 on page 94 . The best one in that group was the Sigma EM 140 macro ring flash.....

If you are on a budget there are some very good budget LED macro ring flashes/lights at amazon for around 30 pounds and some users have given them good reviews

[mazawatea]

Thanks to all, I have found issue 47 and it makes for interesting reading. Christmas is coming and No1 fan is asking for ideas!
Salut
John