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Canon Macro Ring Lite MR-14EX

mr14ex_1_
Review Date: Aug 11, 2008 Recommend? yes | Price paid: Not Indicated | Rating: 10 

 
Pros: Works easy and direct, didn't had to read the instruction manual many times. Master function with 430EX as Slave worked fine. Made some great shots is low light conditions in the evening/night.
Cons:
AF assist light goes automatic off, cannot be switch on manually full time. Manual says no more than 20 flashes, then cool off the unit for 10 min. kind of long waiting when you need that ONE shot out of 100.

A macro flash was very high on my wishlist, finally decided to buy the Canon MR-14ex because of the good reviews, and I didn't want to buy a Canon after I bought a cheap fake substitute and were very disappointed about the result of the cheapycheapy one.

I mounted my EF-S 60mm on my 400d, clicked on the macro ring, switched on the unit, and the first shot of some coins where excellent.

In low light the focusing lights are usefull, but they switch of very fast. Unfortunately Canon knows this problem, because the manual mentioned that this function can be changed in personalised settings ( custom functions ) on the MR-24ex by double clicking the shutter button ( switches the focussing lamp on or off.

The exposure measuring trough the lens works fine. I am now trying to set the flash ratio of one of the lamps higher so a more natural look is given with some shades on one side. My 430ex can help with that because of the fine working Master / Slave function of the units.

Flash exposure bracketing is also possible. For the real freaks, HDR macro photo's can be made combining the three different exposed pictures in one. You definately need a tripod then.

It is expensive for a non-everyday item, but I think it's worth all the money. the unit comes in a nice handy polstered leather (like??) bag, and needs 4 AA batteries, you can find those every-where.