I'm wondering what people have found to be a better way to mount the TT5 on an umbrella swivel mount? It seems like the 1/4" stud would be more secure, but at the same time, if it broke there it would be catastrophic to the unit. Whereas the hotshoe mount might break away in a fall but be replaceable with less impact on the unit.
I've managed not to break any of the 3 flexes I have yet I choose to just use the shoe mount, since as you mentioned... the shoes are user replaceable, and I believe the replacement part only runs $20 or so.
Also one thing to think about.... depending on what light modifier you're using, if any, you might not get proper alignment with the stud mount. Not important with an umbrella, but if you're using a softbox mount that doesn't adjust side to side you might have to fudge it some.
Hmm, great points. I was wondering about replacing those shoes, nice to know the part is available for user servicing. Thanks, I think you just sealed the deal for me. ...off to buy a couple new umbrella swivels.
I once dismissed those Michael Bass brackets because of the cost. I mean $40+ for a piece of plasti-dipped curved metal? I thought SOMEONE must want to make something similar at a lower cost...but that's never happened so I'll probably have to bite the bullet as this is just a much better way to mount TT5ed flash.
Sean Hoffman wrote:
Mark, what bracket do you recommend?
I use the Michael Bass bracket. They are expensive compared to plastic chinese ebay offerings but for something this useful and critical after blowing lord knows how much on flashes and PWs it is worth it to me.
I have modded mine and added rubber for a more solid hold, probably not necessary but flashes are expensive.
If you look down the page of the link I sent you, you will see "HFMB Medium Wide for Lastolite EZYBox. Those are pictures of one of my SB900s, my Lastolite Bracket and Flex.
I had MB make this because I was worried there was not enough adjustment with a SB900 mounted vertically on the Flex and still allow the flash head to center in the Lastolite bracket.
An SB800 is a little shorter than a 900, and would probably mount in the EZYBox vertically without the need for a horizontal adapter.
If you are a Canon user of the Flex TT5 system, and not a Nikon user, you should also consider the PocketWizard AC7 RF Hard Shield, which gives you a mounting bracket type solution for your flash, and also gives you RF shielding for improved range for some flashes. The flash is also fairly well protected while in the hard shield, so it is much harder to break the foot off the flash. But the Flex TT5 remains exposed and could have damage from impact, although there is much less leverage than having a flash extending out from a TT5. The PocketWizard site shows using the AC7 with an umbrella swivel mount in their photos.
I choose to just use the shoe mount, since as you mentioned... the shoes are user replaceable, and I believe the replacement part only runs $20 or so.