Macro O Flash Ring - how well it works?

[andylo]

Would one of these works well?

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/Macro-O-Flash-Ring-Canon-580EX-XSI-XS-XTI-T1I-F160-/220528578766?pt=AU_Cameras_Photographic_Accessories&hash=item33588710ce#ht_2100wt_907

Or should I go for the LED one?

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/Macro-Ring-LED-Flash-Light-f-49-52-55-58-62-67-mm-Lens-/270635011425?pt=AU_Cameras_Photographic_Accessories&hash=item3f031a8d61#ht_3856wt_868

Ideally I would like to get a MR-14EX TTL OR even better, MT-24EX TTL... but missus already said "IF YOU DARE...." :p

[groperofeuropa]

Far out. I had no idea that you could get these things for anything under 200 bucks. Fear I cant offer any help from experience but I'd love to know what others think. I'd consider the LED over the waveguide for the simple fact that you don't need to buy a hot-shoe flash to use it. Maybe it has lower luminance but LEDs can be pretty powerful nowadays.

[ccrnkovic]

would love to know too, would love to see a before and after photograph also

[macmich]

andy
i had a look at these when i was going to get a macro flash
i asked a few pro photographers around bendigo and they had a look
and did not think much of them for there lighting capabilities
i ended up bying a macro flash unit a tumax
it cost around 250 bux but well worth it
it works with the ttl and you can use for portrait shots as well
maybe some other members might have diffrent opinions
check them all before buying
cheers macca

[Entrapro]

Do you really need a macro flash? I have taken all my recent macros with a standard canon 380EX mounted on my 400D with my canon 100mm f2.8 and Kenko extension tubes BUT the trick is to fold a piece of A4 paper (a thick grade works best) and then to curve it around the top of the flash to make a half-pipe that extends out to the front of the lens and hold it in place with a rubber band. All you have to then do is set the camera on manual and F11 or F16 and set the shutter speed to the usual setting for flash (say 100th) and then adjust the ISO to give the desired outcome. I won a merit award the last time I entered a competition, so believe me it works extremely well! I also have the satisfaction of saving $1600 or whatever that some pay for ring flashes etc. I've uploaded a shot of a mantis. Here's hoping it shows up.

[sans2012]

I would be interested to hear how you go with it. Many review online but hey...

If you have an external flash try a bit of DIY like Entrapro mentioned. Offshoe cord is even better...

[Redgum]

A range of ring flashes are available for under $100 and generally give you a very nice shadowless light which can be enhanced with any number of support sources including incandescent lighting. This sort of 3D modelling can be very attractive and get away from flat light. Very much an artistic taste of the photographer.

[KERRYGRACE]

I have seen the following Ring flash adapters
Ray Flash Ring Flash Adapter
Orbis Ring Flash Adapter
Coco Ring Flash Adaptor
GoPro O Ring Flash Adapter
Saturn Ring Flash Adapter

Does anyone know which would be best for a Canon 580EX flash and Canon 350D camera? I will be using it for Macro photography and I heard that some obscure the AF, any comments welcome

Thanks
:)

[macmich]

whatever you choose it has to suit the job at hand
if you think of making units to do job or modify flash units
take into consideration that when you go between branches of trees or shrubs to get your shot
that your aperatus you have just made
doent get snared or lodged
i have found using the flash ring it is robust enough to push aside a small obstacleto get your shot
i would not dougt that they will work but it is dissapointing to line your shot up and the paper slipped or whatever
cheers macca