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Ring Light Flash???
I just bought a ring light flash from Alien Bees. I have tried it a few times, yesterday with a model. For some reason, I am impressed with the results. Basically, it looks very similar to having a flash unit on the camera. I used it by itself with no other flash units. Should I have other flash units working at the same time? The other thing is that the unit being attached to the camera is that if you move closer or further from the model then you have to change the exposure so I used my zoom lens to take care of that problem. fine, except it is very difficult to move the zoom lens when it is inside the ring light. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to get the best lighting when using this light. Otherwise, I might just sell it and move on thanks John Mar 23 07 12:01 pm Link The diameter of the ring is just too small for some of the bigger zoom lenses. My Canon L lenses, for instance, are just not workable. I didn't buy one, but I was able to try one that a friend has. With a smaller lens, it's easier to work and the effects are great. Of course, you can't beat the price. I have been on B&H's web site, and there are some other brand ring lights with a larger diameter, however, they're in the $1,600 price range, and for me, it's just not cost effective right now. And like you said, you have to keep changing the power on the ring light, if you or the model change position. A TTL ring light, now that would be great. Best of luck. Mar 23 07 12:06 pm Link Did you mean unimpressed? A ring flash is a specialty lighting tool. It is perfect for using as a fill light or to create snappy shadowless lighting. As far as exposure, think of the ring light as a regular studio strobe and shoot accordingly. You could mount the ring on a tripod/light stand and just stick your lens in the middle and shoot; this will solve your zooming problems. I love using ring lights but I think they have been overused. Mar 23 07 12:18 pm Link I want one of those to shoot beauty! Mar 23 07 01:33 pm Link 
Photographer Posts: 468 Dumont d'Urville - permanent station of France, Sector claimed by France, Antarctica I have an ABR800 and it works fine w/ my 70-200 "L" lens as well as my other zooms. The diameter of the ring is sufficient for this lens, and you can adjust how deep into the ring unit the lens goes so I've been able to access both the zoom ring and focus controls with the lens mounted. I've not had it for long, but with all the diffuser, umbrella and softbox attachments, I'm finding it to be a clever unit that's functional for more than just a ringlight flash. Mar 23 07 01:42 pm Link Once u learn how to use it you may feel different. Mar 23 07 01:48 pm Link I have a profoto, but except for the very specific "ring flash" look where you put the model close to the background and pick up the "halo" flash, or when used as fill, that's pretty much it. People think a ringflash is some magical instrument. Now, a ring is a wonderful fill. And as much as some people dislike the "halo" look, which can be used and abused, there really isn't some mystical quality to a ring light. I know this isn't responsive to your question, but why did you buy it if you didn't undertand what it will do and the limitations? Mark Mar 23 07 02:50 pm Link Gunfitr wrote: Mar 23 07 02:53 pm Link the reason I bought it was to get different lighting effects, two of my photographer friends have them and swear by them, as someone else mentioned, once I learn how to use it I will like it which I think is true. On the other hand, I can use it in combinations of other flash units as a fill or just an extra light, so no loss actually John Mar 23 07 02:56 pm Link I like them, but also think they have been overused in fashion during the 90's as the main light source. I think they're fantastic as fill light. Mar 23 07 07:32 pm Link John Hough Photographer wrote: I have a Ring Flash and love it. Trust me the damn thing is best used on a tripod. You can adjust your camera on the RF so it sits further out in the RF -- and you can easily adjust your zoom. I find washing the background with light also helps. When shooting on location I bounce light off the ceiling or wall for good results. Take a look at my port - the model with a key in her back -- was shot using RF and bounced light. Mar 23 07 09:15 pm Link Ruben Sanchez wrote: My 24-70 f2.8L is a great lens to use with this ringlight. Works with no problems. Mar 23 07 09:22 pm Link I have a Hensel Premium Porty System & Ring Flash. I LOVE IT!!!! The system is battery operated and sealed from the elements, which is good for me since I like to shoot on the beach. Hensel's Ring Flash is much larger and about 4 times stronger than the AB, not to mention better quality of light. My Nikon 70-200 2.8 VR lens fits in the center. I also have the Sun Haze "soft box" attachment for it....way cool! Check it out at www.henselusa.com Mar 23 07 09:31 pm Link I have no problem sticking my 70-200L in my ABR. I like the end result. It creates a unique look. I wish AB would create a larger(22"?) addon reflector so it would be more useful as a beauty dish. Mar 23 07 09:43 pm Link |
