p.1 #1 · Using PW stuff on a flash bracket or cable?
I haven't used a flash bracket in years. last time I did, I used my Nikon D700, with SB-900 and SC-17 cord on a Stroboframe. All went well.
However, since then, i've acquired a Pocket Wizard setup, including AC controller, mini tt1, and three TT5's for an on location setup.
I need to use a bracket ( I need to buy one, or I wouldn't be asking) for an upcoming gig, and was thinking about putting the mini tt1, with AC controller on camera, and TT5 on the flash bracket with SB-900.
Without actually being able to put this together, it seems as if it's a lot of equipment on the bracket, as opposed to a simple SC-17 cord.
What are your thoughts on this?
I have a bracket lined up, but I would like some feedback, before buying.
p.1 #2 · Using PW stuff on a flash bracket or cable?
It's a matter of using what you have. I use PT-04 triggers (old cactus v2s style) when I use my bracket (strobe frame camera flip), because it's convenient to use, and no cables needed. Plus, if I want to use a second flash I don't need to rig up any splitters or adapters.
p.1 #3 · Using PW stuff on a flash bracket or cable?
alohadave wrote:
It's a matter of using what you have. I use PT-04 triggers (old cactus v2s style) when I use my bracket (strobe frame camera flip), because it's convenient to use, and no cables needed. Plus, if I want to use a second flash I don't need to rig up any splitters or adapters.
Yes, I was considering the advantages of such a setup. I can use the flash on bracket and have the ability to had a few other lights as needed. The AC 3 controller gives me lots a control.
p.1 #4 · Using PW stuff on a flash bracket or cable?
Trying to revive a thread that warrants more discussion IMO.
I tried putting a FlexTT5/SB900 combo on brackets from JustRite and Custom Brackets last year. The objectives were: (a) get rid of the annoying cables and (b) use the MiniTT1 to simultaneously control the bracket-mounted speedlight and off-camera speedlights (or monolights). Unfortunately, both brackets felt unstable with the speedlight/TT5 sitting on top of the bracket. I'm now giving some consideration to trying a similar setup with the ProMediaGear bracket, assuming they have something that will work with a D4.
p.1 #5 · Using PW stuff on a flash bracket or cable?
The flash on the tt5 on bracket might not be very stable. What you might consider is using the TTL cord between the tt5 and the flash. In other words mount the SB-17 to the top of bracket with flash in it connecting to the tt5 mounted on the side somewhere out of the way. You could wire-tie the cable out of the way and keep it mounted permanently to the bracket.
Also if using a camera flip bracket make sure there is clearance between bracket and hotshoe module.
FWIW, I use a canon oc-e2 cord with Stroboframe camera flip. The PITA factor decreased once I permanent bolted the flash end of the cable to the bracket and wire-tied the cable to the frame. Now I barely notice it is there.
p.1 #6 · Using PW stuff on a flash bracket or cable?
Using a short TTL cord with the FlexTT5 mounted on the side mght improve the overall balance by relocating some of the weight. Another option might be to use a TTL cord to connect the MiniTT1 directly to the bracket-mounted speedlight, which could then be used to control off-camera speedlights. I prefer an AC3, although the AC3 isn't the perfect solution either because of the way some doofus designed those little dials....the detents are useless, making it far too easy to inadvertently change the settings.
I have a couple of Stroboframe brackets, but don't like them because Tiffen (AFAIK) doesn't have a decent anti-twist plate for D700 bodies. I also don't like brackets that alter the orientation between the flash and the camera body when going from landscape to portrait mode. This is an issue because if you set the speedlight to point anywhere other than straight ahead, the speedlight will be pointing in a totally different direction when the bracket is switched from landscape to portrait. The heads on most speedlights allow for repositioning, but it's a bit of a PITA to continually readjust.
p.1 #7 · Using PW stuff on a flash bracket or cable?
BigIronCruiser wrote:
I have a couple of Stroboframe brackets, but don't like them because Tiffen (AFAIK) doesn't have a decent anti-twist plate for D700 bodies. I also don't like brackets that alter the orientation between the flash and the camera body when going from landscape to portrait mode.
I solved the first problem by using a Arca-Swiss style QR / plate. I use a Wimberly QR and RRS L bracket. I was pleasantly surprised to find the Strobframe pre-drilled for the mount bolts of the QR.
I solve the second flash head orientation problem by using a diffuser on the flash. There's a slight difference between lens center and diffuser center when camera is flipped but I haven't found it to be a problem. YMMV depending on the camera dimensions. I've used 20D and 50D with the bracket.
p.1 #8 · Using PW stuff on a flash bracket or cable?
Moving to Arca could be expensive.
To clarfy the other issue, if you're in landscape mode with the speedlight pointed up to bounce off a celing, or left/right to bounce off a wall, and then switch to portrait mode, you will have to reposition the head in order to continue bouncing off the same object.
p.1 #9 · Using PW stuff on a flash bracket or cable?
BigIronCruiser wrote:
Moving to Arca could be expensive.
True, but then it's not exactly a cheap hobby. In my case I was already using A-S QR and camera plates for my tripod. Stroboframe sells a QR system for the bracket. I bought one for a camera/bracket at work. The camera plate is a bit wider that A-S but beveled the same and will fit in a A-S QR if needed. BigIronCruiser wrote:
To clarfy the other issue, if you're in landscape mode with the speedlight pointed up to bounce off a celing, or left/right to bounce off a wall, and then switch to portrait mode, you will have to reposition the head in order to continue bouncing off the same object.
The flash does not move, the camera does. Cradling the bottom of the bracket with my left hand, right hand on the camera grip, I can flip the camera without the flash, my hands, or eye in the viewfinder changing position.
The photo illustrates the point I made earlier about clearance between the top of camera and arm of bracket. I took the foam off the handle and wrapped it with tape. I never hold it by the bracket handle. When carrying it when not shooting I hold it at the top next to the flash. When shooting my left hand is under the bracket not on the handle.
