The detachable camera flash is an external flash that can be mounted on a camera’s hot shoe or used off-camera for greater control over the direction and intensity of light. They are an essential tool for photographers who want to take their photography to the next level.
Using a detachable camera flash can provide numerous benefits, including:
- Improved lighting: detachable camera flashes provide more powerful and directional light than built-in camera flashes, resulting in better lighting for your photos.
- Greater control: detachable camera flashes give you more control over the direction and intensity of light, allowing you to create the perfect lighting conditions for your photos.
- Versatility: with detachable camera flashes, you can experiment with different lighting setups and techniques, which can result in stunning and unique photos.
- Better image quality: detachable camera flashes can improve the overall quality of your photos, making them sharper and more detailed.
In addition to these benefits, detachable camera flashes can also help you to overcome some of the common challenges associated with flash photography, such as harsh shadows, overexposure, and color casts.
Whether you’re a professional photographer or a hobist, using a detachable camera flash can help you to take your photography to the next level. In the next section, we’ll review the best detachable camera flashes on the market, along with their pros, cons, and verdicts, to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Tips for Using Detachable Camera Flash Options
To make the most of your detachable camera flash and elevate your photography, consider the following tips:
Start with the basics
Understand the difference between TTL (Through The Lens) and manual flash modes. TTL automatically adjusts the flash power based on your camera’s metering system, while manual mode requires manual adjustments. Learn how to adjust your flash power accordingly to achieve the desired exposure.
Experiment with off-camera flash positioning
Try different angles and distances when positioning your flash to achieve the desired lighting effect. Off-camera flash placement can drastically change the look and mood of your images.
- Side lighting for depth and texture
- Backlighting for a dramatic silhouette
- Above the subject for a dramatic, focused light
Use light modifiers
Softboxes, umbrellas, and reflectors can help soften and shape the light from your flash. This can result in more natural-looking and flattering images.
- Softboxes for a soft, even light
- Umbrellas for a diffused, broader light
- Reflectors to bounce and direct light onto your subject
Master high-speed sync
Learn how to use high-speed sync (HSS) to balance flash with ambient light, especially in bright conditions. HSS allows you to use faster shutter speeds than your camera’s standard flash sync speed, enabling you to effectively control the exposure of both the flash and the ambient light.
Consider using multiple flashes
For more complex lighting setups, consider investing in additional flashes and triggers to create a versatile and dynamic lighting environment. Multiple flashes can help you achieve a range of creative effects, such as:
- Fill the light to eliminate harsh shadows
- Rim light to accentuate your subject’s outline
- Hair light to add depth and separation from the background
By implementing these tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to unlocking the full potential of your detachable camera flash, creating visually stunning and professional-quality images.
Comparison Of The 9 Best Detachable Camera Flash Options
In this section, we’ll be comparing the 9 best detachable camera flashes for stunning photography in 2023. We’ll provide specs, pros and cons, and our verdict on each of these flashes to help you choose the one that’s best for your needs and budget.
So, whether you’re a wedding photographer, nature enthusiast, or simply looking to improve your photography skills, read on to discover the best detachable camera flashes on the market.
Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT Flash
The Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT Flash is a popular and versatile flash option for Canon users. Here are the specs, pros, cons, and verdict:
Specs:
- Guide number: 141.1 ft./43m at ISO 100
- Zoom range: 24-105mm (14mm with panel)
- Flash duration: 1.2 ms or shorter
- Recycling time: Approx. 0.1-3.5 seconds
- Wireless communication: Radio transmission (up to 98.4 ft./30m)
- Power source: 4 AA batteries
Pros:
- Quick recycling time: The Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT Flash has a fast recycling time of approximately 0.1-3.5 seconds, which means you can take multiple photos in quick succession without waiting for the flash to recharge.
- Radio transmission for wireless control: The flash features a built-in radio transmitter for wireless control of multiple flashes, making it easy to create complex lighting setups.
- Built-in catchlight panel: The built-in catchlight panel helps to add catchlights to your subjects’ eyes, resulting in more engaging portraits.
Cons:
- Not as powerful as some other options: The Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT Flash has a guide number of 141.1 ft./43m at ISO 100, which may not be as powerful as some other options on the market.
Verdict:
Overall, the Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT Flash is a versatile and reliable option for Canon users. Its fast recycling time and wireless communication capabilities make it a great choice for event and portrait photographers who need to work quickly and efficiently. However, if you need a more powerful flash, you may want to consider other options on the market.
Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight
The Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight is a reliable and versatile flash option for Nikon photographers. Here are the specs, pros, cons, and verdict:
Specs:
- Guide number: 92 ft./28m at ISO 100
- Zoom range: 24-120mm
- Flash duration: 1/1042 sec. at full power
- Recycling time: Approx. 2.5 seconds with alkaline batteries
- Light distribution: Wide-angle, standard, and telephoto zoom
- Power source: 4 AA batteries
Pros:
- Easy-to-navigate menu system: The Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight features a user-friendly menu system that makes it easy to adjust settings and access advanced features.
- Fast recycling time: The flash has a fast recycling time of approximately 2.5 seconds with alkaline batteries, which means you can take multiple photos in quick succession without waiting for the flash to recharge.
- Wide range of light distribution patterns: The flash offers three different light distribution patterns (wide-angle, standard, and telephoto zoom), giving you more control over the direction and intensity of light.
Cons:
- No built-in radio control: Unlike some other options on the market, the Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight does not have built-in radio control, which means you’ll need an additional accessory if you want to use wireless flash control.
Verdict:
Overall, the Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight is a reliable and easy-to-use flash option for Nikon photographers. Its fast recycling time, a wide range of light distribution patterns, and user-friendly menu system make it a great choice for a wide range of photography applications. However, if you need built-in radio control, you may want to consider other options on the market.
Sony External Flash with Wireless Radio Control
The Sony External Flash with Wireless Radio Control is a powerful and versatile flash option for Sony shooters. Here are the specs, pros, cons, and verdict:
Specs:
- Guide number: 60 (105mm, ISO 100)
- Zoom range: 24-105mm
- Flash duration: Approx. 1/1000 sec. at full power
- Recycling time: Approx. 2.9 seconds with alkaline batteries
- Wireless communication: Radio-controlled wireless communication up to 98.4 feet (30m)
- Power source: 4 AA batteries
Pros:
- High-speed sync support: The flash supports high-speed sync (HSS) up to 1/8000 sec., which means you can use faster shutter speeds to achieve a shallow depth of field or freeze motion.
- Wireless radio control: The flash features built-in wireless radio control, which allows you to control multiple flashes from a distance.
- Quick shift bounce head: The quick shift bounce head allows you to quickly and easily switch between horizontal and vertical shooting orientations.
Cons:
- Limited third-party compatibility: The Sony External Flash with Wireless Radio Control is designed specifically for Sony cameras and may not be compatible with third-party cameras.
Verdict:
Overall, the Sony External Flash with Wireless Radio Control is a powerful and versatile flash option for Sony shooters. Its HSS support, wireless radio control, and quick shift bounce head make it a great choice for event and portrait photographers who need to work quickly and efficiently. However, if you use a third-party camera, you may want to consider other options on the market.
Profoto A10 On/Off Camera Flash Kit
The Profoto A10 On/Off Camera Flash Kit is a premium and high-quality flash option for professional photographers who value quality and consistency. Here are the specs, pros, cons, and verdict:
Specs:
- Guide number: 131 ft./40m at ISO 100
- Zoom range: 28-105mm
- Flash duration: 1/8000 sec. at full power (t0.5)
- Recycling time: Approx. 0.05-2.2 seconds
- Wireless communication: Bluetooth
- Power source: Rechargeable Li-Ion battery
Pros:
- High-quality build and design: The Profoto A10 On/Off Camera Flash Kit is made with high-quality materials and features a sleek and modern design.
- Excellent color consistency: The flash has excellent color consistency, which means that your photos will have accurate and natural-looking colors.
- Bluetooth connectivity with a smartphone app: The flash features Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to control and adjust settings using a smartphone app.
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options: The Profoto A10 On/Off Camera Flash Kit is more expensive than many other options on the market.
Verdict:
Overall, the Profoto A10 On/Off Camera Flash Kit is a premium and high-quality flash option for professional photographers who value quality and consistency. Its high-quality build, excellent color consistency, and Bluetooth connectivity make it a great choice for photographers who demand the best. However, if you’re on a budget, you may want to consider other options on the market.
Godox TT600 Camera Flash
The Godox TT600 Camera Flash is a budget-friendly flash option that is compatible with multiple camera brands. Here are the specs, pros, cons, and verdict:
Specs:
- Guide number: 60m (ISO 100, 200mm)
- Zoom range: 20-200mm
- Flash duration: 1/300s – 1/20000s
- Recycling time: Approx. 0.1-2.6 seconds
- Wireless communication: None
- Power source: 4 AA batteries
Pros:
- Affordable price: The Godox TT600 Camera Flash is an affordable flash option that won’t break the bank.
- Compatible with multiple camera brands: The flash is compatible with Canon, Nikon, Sony, Olympus, Fujifilm, Panasonic, and Pentax cameras.
- High-speed sync support: The flash supports high-speed sync up to 1/8000s, which means you can use faster shutter speeds to achieve a shallow depth of field or freeze motion.
Cons:
- No TTL metering: The flash does not have TTL metering, which means you will need to manually adjust the flash power to achieve the desired exposure.
Verdict:
The Godox TT600 Camera Flash is a budget-friendly option with versatile compatibility. It’s a great choice for photographers on a budget who need a flash for multiple camera brands.
Flashpoint Zoom Li-on X R2 TTL
The Flashpoint Zoom Li-on X R2 TTL is a feature-packed flash option with excellent battery life. Here are the specs, pros, cons, and verdict:
Specs:
- Guide number: 197ft/60m @ISO 100
- Zoom range: 20-200mm
- Flash duration: 1/220-1/13150s
- Recycling time: Approx. 1.5s with Li-Ion battery
- Wireless communication: Built-in 2.4Ghz R2 Radio System
- Power source: Rechargeable Li-Ion battery
Pros:
- Long-lasting lithium-ion battery: The rechargeable Li-Ion battery provides up to 480 full-power flashes on a single charge.
- Built-in R2 radio system for wireless control: The built-in R2 radio system allows for wireless control of multiple flashes from a distance.
- Supports TTL and high-speed sync: The flash supports TTL metering and high-speed sync up to 1/8000s.
Cons:
- Heavier than some other options: The Flashpoint Zoom Li-on X R2 TTL is a bit heavier than some other flash options on the market.
Verdict:
The Flashpoint Zoom Li-on X R2 TTL is a feature-packed flash option with excellent battery life. It’s a great choice for photographers who need a flash with wireless control capabilities and TTL metering.
Neewer TT560 Flash Speedlite
The Neewer TT560 Flash Speedlite is an affordable and basic flash option for beginners or occasional users. Here are the specs, pros, cons, and verdict:
Specs:
- Guide number: 38m/125ft at 35mm
- Zoom range: None
- Flash duration: None
- Recycling time: Approx. 0.5-5.5 seconds
- Wireless communication: None
- Power source: 4 AA batteries
Pros:
- Affordable: The Neewer TT560 Flash Speedlite is an affordable flash option that won’t break the bank.
- Universal compatibility with most camera brands: The flash is compatible with most camera brands, including Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Olympus, and more.
- Simple, user-friendly design: The flash has a simple design with easy-to-use controls.
Cons:
- No TTL or high-speed sync support: The flash does not have TTL metering or high-speed sync capabilities, which means you will need to manually adjust the flash power and shutter speed to achieve the desired exposure.
Verdict:
The Neewer TT560 Flash Speedlite is a basic and affordable flash option for beginners or occasional users. It’s a great choice for those who need a flash for multiple camera brands but don’t require TTL or high-speed sync capabilities.
Leica SF 60 Flash
The Leica SF 60 Flash is a premium flash option for Leica photographers. Here are the specs, pros, cons, and verdict:
Specs:
- Guide number: 60m at ISO 100
- Zoom range: 24-200mm
- Flash duration: 1/8000s – 1/1000s
- Recycling time: Approx. 0.1-5.5 seconds
- Wireless communication: None
- Power source: 4 AA batteries
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design: The Leica SF 60 Flash is a compact and lightweight flash option that is easy to carry around.
- Compatible with the Leica TTL system: The flash is compatible with Leica TTL metering, which means you can achieve accurate exposures with ease.
- High-speed sync support: The flash supports high-speed sync up to 1/8000s.
Cons:
- Expensive for its features: The Leica SF 60 Flash is more expensive than many other flash options on the market, despite not having as many features.
Verdict:
The Leica SF 60 Flash is a premium flash option for Leica photographers. Its compact and lightweight design, compatibility with Leica TTL metering, and high-speed sync capabilities make it a great choice for those who demand the best. However, its high price tag may be a barrier for some photographers.
Meike MK-MT24S Macro Twin Lite Flash
The Meike MK-MT24S Macro Twin Lite Flash is a specialized flash option for macro photographers. Here are the specs, pros, cons, and verdict:
Specs:
- Guide number: 24m at ISO 100
- Zoom range: None
- Flash duration: None
- Recycling time: Approx. 0.1-5 seconds
- Wireless communication: Included commander for wireless control
- Power source: 4 AA batteries
Pros:
- Designed specifically for macro photography: The Meike MK-MT24S Macro Twin Lite Flash is designed for macro photography, with two flexible, independently adjustable flash heads.
- Wireless control with included commander: The included commander allows for wireless control of the flash heads from a distance.
- Flexible, independently adjustable flash heads: The two flash heads can be adjusted independently, allowing for greater control over lighting in macro photography.
Cons:
- Limited to macro photography use: The Meike MK-MT24S Macro Twin Lite Flash is not suitable for other types of photography, as it is designed specifically for macro photography.
Verdict:
The Meike MK-MT24S Macro Twin Lite Flash is a specialized flash option for macro photographers. Its flexible, independently adjustable flash heads and wireless control capabilities make it a great choice for those who specialize in macro photography. However, its limited use for other types of photography may be a downside for some photographers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a detachable camera flash is an essential accessory for photographers who want to elevate their work to the next level. With the right flash, you can achieve stunning results in a variety of lighting situations. Here’s a quick recap of the top 9 detachable camera flashes we reviewed:
- Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT Flash
- Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight
- Sony External Flash with Wireless Radio Control
- Profoto A10 On/Off Camera Flash Kit
- Godox TT600 Camera Flash
- Flashpoint Zoom Li-on X R2 TTL
- Neewer TT560 Flash Speedlite
- Leica SF 60 Flash
- Meike MK-MT24S Macro Twin Lite Flash
When selecting a flash, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget. A more expensive flash may have additional features and better build quality, but a budget-friendly option may still be suitable for your needs.
In addition to detachable camera flash options, there are other accessories that can help enhance your photography. Consider exploring action camera microphone attachments, action camera protectors, and action camera flashlights for additional versatility in your photography. Check out Technology Kings for more information on these accessories.
Investing in a detachable camera flash is a wise decision for any photographer who wants to improve their work. With the right flash, you can achieve stunning results and take your photography to the next level.
FAQ About Detachable Camera Flash Options
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about detachable camera flashes:
- What is the first common mistake photographers make with off-camera flash? The most common mistake is not properly balancing the ambient light with the flash, which can lead to unnatural-looking images.
- Is an off-camera flash worth it? Yes, an off-camera flash can significantly improve the quality of your images and give you more control over the lighting.
- How do external camera flashes work? External camera flashes work emitting a burst of bright light that illuminates the subject and can be triggered wirelessly or through a cable.
- What is the difference between on-camera flash and off-camera flash? The On-camera flash is attached to the camera itself, while the off-camera flash is positioned away from the camera and can be triggered remotely.
- Why do I look so bad in flash pictures? Flash can highlight imperfections in the skin and create harsh shadows, which can make subjects look less flattering.
- Why do they say no flash photography? Flash photography can be distracting and disruptive in certain environments, such as theaters, museums, and galleries.
- Do professional photographers use flash? Yes, professional photographers often use flash to enhance their images and achieve specific lighting effects.
- Will a camera flash damage eyes? Repeated exposure to bright flashes can cause eye damage, so it’s important to use caution when working with powerful flashes.
- How do you expose for off-camera flash? To properly expose off-camera flash, you need to balance the brightness of the flash with the ambient light in the scene.
- Do all flashes work on any camera? No, not all flashes are compatible with every camera brand and model.
- What are the different types of flashes for cameras? There are several types of flashes, including built-in flashes, hot shoe flashes, and studio flashes.
- Do you use the on-camera flash outside? Yes, the on-camera flash can be useful in outdoor settings where the ambient light is low or uneven.
- Can I use the off-camera flash without a trigger? Some off-camera flashes have built-in radio receivers that allow them to be triggered without a separate trigger.
- What is the difference between a flash and a Speedlight? A Speedlight is a type of external camera flash that is designed to be small and portable.
- Which camera flash is best? The best camera flash for you will depend on your specific needs, budget, and camera system.
- Do we look better in the mirror or in real life? People often perceive themselves as looking better in the mirror than in photos, but this is largely a matter of personal preference.
- Do I look better in real life than in photos? Again, this is subjective and can vary from person to person.
- Why do I look bad in pictures but good in real life? Poor lighting and unflattering angles can make people look less attractive in photos than they do in real life.
- Why are eyes red in flash photos? The flash reflects off the back of the eye, creating a red glow in the image.
- What is the rule for flash photography? The basic rule for flash photography is to balance the brightness of the flash with the ambient light in the scene.
- Why do photographers use flash in the daytime? Flash can be used in daylight to fill in shadows and create a more even lighting effect.
- Can you use flash at a wedding? Yes, a flash can be useful for capturing well-lit images in low-light situations, such as indoor wedding receptions.
- Do I need a flash for night photography? Not necessarily, but a flash can be useful for adding additional light and creating specific lighting effects in night photography.
- Should you use flash on a disposable camera during the day? Disposable cameras typically have built-in flashes that can be used during the day, but the results may not always be ideal due to the limitations of the camera.
- How long does a camera flash last? The duration of a camera flash can vary depending on the flash unit and power settings but typically lasts for a fraction of a second.
- How strong is a camera flash? The strength of a camera flash is measured in watt-seconds or joules, which indicates the amount of energy it can produce.
- Does camera flash affect the skin? Flash can highlight imperfections in the skin and create harsh shadows, but it generally does not have a harmful effect on the skin.
- What is off-camera flash called? Off-camera flash is also known as remote flash or external flash.
- What is the best position for an off-camera flash? The best position for off-camera flash depends on the desired lighting effect, but commonly used positions include above, below, or to the side of the subject.
- How do I protect my eyes from camera flashes? To protect your eyes from a camera flash, avoid looking directly at the flash and use caution when working with powerful flashes.
Summary / Key Takeaways
- Detachable camera flashes provide more control over lighting conditions and can greatly enhance your photography.
- It’s important to choose the right flash for your needs and budget and to learn how to use it effectively through practice and experimentation.
- Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT, Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight, and Sony External Flash are versatile options for their respective camera brands.
- Profoto A10 On/Off Camera Flash is a premium choice for professionals who value quality and consistency.
- Godox TT600 Camera Flash and Neewer TT560 Flash Speedlite are budget-friendly options with versatile compatibility.
- Flashpoint Zoom Li-on X R2 TTL is a feature-packed flash with excellent battery life.
- Leica SF 60 Flash is a premium option for Leica photographers, and Meike MK-MT24S Macro Twin Lite Flash is a specialized option for macro photography.
- Common mistakes with off-camera flash include improper positioning, incorrect exposure, and not considering ambient light.
- Off-camera flash is worth it for photographers who want more control over lighting conditions and to produce professional-looking results.
- External camera flashes work producing a burst of light that illuminates the subject, either directly or indirectly through a diffuser or reflector.
- On-camera flash is mounted directly on the camera and can produce harsh and unflattering lighting, while off-camera flash allows for more creative control and versatility.
- Eyes can appear red in flash photos due to the reflection of the flash off the retina, and to avoid this effect it’s recommended to avoid direct flash and use indirect or diffused lighting.
- Flash photography is prohibited in some settings due to safety concerns or to avoid disrupting the experience of others.
- There are different types of flashes for cameras, including dedicated flashes for specific camera brands and universal flashes that can be used with multiple brands.
- Off-camera flash is also known as remote flash or external flash.
- The best position for off-camera flash depends on the desired lighting effect and can be above, below, or to the side of the subject.
- To protect your eyes from a camera flash, avoid looking directly at the flash and use caution when working with powerful flashes.
