I'm confused, which speedlight do I need???

[PaulF]

I know, it doesn't take too much to confuse me

I have a Nikon D5000, and looking to get a speedlight/flashgun but having looked at a few on warehouse express I've realised I don't know enough :shrug:

I want to be able to use it both on camera and off camera. Am I right in the belief that not all flashguns can be used 'off camera'?

I'll hopefully be using it for portraits of the family, nothing professional and general use as part of this photography lark, still life etc.

Can anyone please recommend one that'll suit? I don't want to spend a fortune but am willing to buy something that will last.

Cheers
Paul.

 

[Yardbent]

which ever one you buy, I recommend an off-camera TTL cord from FITP

this allows you to get the flash off the centre-line of the camera = crap harsh light, and still allows the camera to control the flash output for the correct exposure

I think.....

 

[ShawWellPete]

SB-600 will be fine. I reckon ken somes it up nicely. I have 2 sb-600s and 1 sb-900 by the way.

 

[specialman]

+1 on the SB600 - good, reliable flashgun with plenty of power - think they're about £150 on ebay new. Otherwise try a Jessops 360AFD; bout £80 i think.

 

[neilos100]

Just a reminder....the D5000 does not wirelessly command any Nikon flash unit....you must use a remote cord to use it off camera.

 

[lalineaman]

Hi Paul

Another vote for the SB-600, echoing all the above. Great speedlight!

Simon

 

[PaulF]

Thanks for the replies, I'm getting the idea that it's better to stick with a Nikon one instead of a generic make.

Just a reminder....the D5000 does not wirelessly command any Nikon flash unit....you must use a remote cord to use it off camera.

Thanks, would I be able to use a remote wireless trigger attachment on the hotshoe?

 

[PaulF]

Having a quick look on Ebay, this can't be right surely.....
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Brand-New-Nikon-Speedlite-SB600-I-TTL-Flash-Speedlight-/320480123603?cmd=ViewItem&pt=UK_CamerasPhoto_CameraAccessories_CameraFlashUnits_JN&hash=item4a9e1a9ad3#ht_1974wt_939

 

[specialman]

Yeah, think they've messed up their pricing. But it does seem ebay prices have risen - £190 is about the norm.

This link is a search on ebay for an SB600 from UK ebay sellers: http://photography.shop.ebay.co.uk/...eraFlashUnits_JN&_fln=1&_trksid=p3286.c0.m283

You could also try (Ian) Kerso - he's a member on here who sells things very cheap and they're all above board... people love him on here

 

[ccullen]

Uswful thread just what i was looking for

 

[timmygcsc2308]

Just a reminder....the D5000 does not wirelessly command any Nikon flash unit....you must use a remote cord to use it off camera.

well in that case why not get a Nissin Di622 :shrug: I got mine for £92 from microglobe, awsome flash and a SB600 all but CLS..
edit: oh sorry just seen this was a big bump