so i am thinking about getting one of these. but have not done much flash photography. how good is this model? are people happy with its results? with an M6 TTL how is easy is it to use? regarding fill flash (i am using a 35mm lens) what do people use on this camera? does anyone have some work (color esp.) that they could show that was taken with this flash?

thank you

john

-- john molloy (ballyscanlon@hotmail.com), March 21, 2002

Answers

Dear John, The SF20 is fine for regular flash work up to distances of 14-20 feet, presuming ISO's of 320-400. As Anon Terry, one of the regulars here, has stated, they are totally inadequate for outside fill flash. Because the M6 TTL syncs at 50 or lower w/ the SF20, it doesn't function well for fill... Most users have found, when using it for regular nighttime flash, that it's a little harsh, so it's set at EV -1 to -2. I've confirmed these findings myself, & usually shoot 400 ISO inside at -1 2/3s for best results. At f8, that extends the range of the little box to 22-23 feet. Obviously, at a wider f-stop, the range increases. BTW, there are numerous discussions on the LUG about this very topic. Check 'em out--!

-- Patrick (pg@patrickgarner.com), March 21, 2002.

It's a good, small flash unit. I find it quite adequate for main flash indoors with ASA 100-400 speed films. Outdoors, it performs well as a fill flash using ASA 25-100 speed films (occasionally an ND filter) keeping the EV compensation control to -1 or -2. Effective range of use as fill is typically 4-13 feet.

I find mine is very efficient on battery use. I don't use flash too much but the lithium batteries in it have lasted over two years and show no signs of quitting yet.

-- Godfrey (ramarren@bayarea.net), March 21, 2002.

BTW, you can use the SF20 for bounce by moving it off camera with a Nikon SC-17 or Contax TLA flash extension cable. The contacts in the cables are pin compatible although the flash unit to body protocols between Nikon, Contax and Leica M6TTL/R8 dedicated flash units are not.

Godfrey

-- Godfrey (ramarren@bayarea.net), March 21, 2002.

What company actually makes the flash, Metz? If so, what is their equiv. unit and how much do they charge, $45?

What is the guide no. for the SF20?

Sorry to chime in; I think you know my position.

-- chris chen (chrischen@msn.com), March 21, 2002.

What is the guide no. for the SF20?

20. In meters.

:-),

-- Jack Flesher (jbflesher@msn.com), March 21, 2002.

mine came free with the camera, that's a good price. it's a nice unit, a off the camera cable helps a lot! but then you should downrate the unit.

-- stefan randlkofer (geesbert@yahoo.com), March 21, 2002.

The SF-20 was the first accessory I bought, mainly because it was the only Leica accessory I could afford. I like it. Especially the slow shutter (< 1/8 sec) effects: meter for available light then set the SF-20 at -1 and shoot. Cool ghosting effects - very National Geographic. Or set at 1/50 sec and the M6TTL essentially becomes an automatic camera. I keep the diffuser on with either my 35 or 50 crons and usually set the exposure compensation below normal, depending on distance and available light. All in all, a fun accessory to have.

-- Ken Geter (kgeter@yahoo.com), March 21, 2002.

I'm awaiting the arrival of a SF20 flash tomorrow for my M6TTL. The flash is made by Metz I am told by a few Leica dealers. I have been using the little compact Metz 34cs flash. This is a great compact flash to use on non-TTL Leicas. 4 power modes(1 manual, 3 auto) and 2 slave modes.

I'll try to post some images with the SF20 flash over the weekend.

-- chris a williams (LeicaChris@worldnet.att.net), March 21, 2002.

Whats the average compensation adjustment used on the flash to achieve a natural kinda look, should anything between -1 and -2EV be fine? Does anyone just use 1 setting? Thanks

-- Karl Yik (karl.yik@dk.com), March 22, 2002.

Another basic SF20 question: How are folks setting the f stop on the camera? Leaving it at 5.6 and setting the flash for the same? Or adjusting the f stop to sontrol depth of field, and letting the falsh adjust accordingly? I know this is basic, but...Thanx.

-- Bob Stevens (matlaw@hargray.com), March 22, 2002.