Delta Flip Flash I Bracket Stability Question

[brecklundin]

I sort of like the simplicity of this bracket. I like the flexible neck for macro (just got my Sigma 180 f2.8 (well, it will be here tomorrow... ) But I have a question.

My biggest question is how stable is the neck? I know it will support my 430ex II fine under calm or indoor conditions. But we live in an area with pretty dependable 10-20MPH winds every day. So, just how 'bouncy' is the 7" neck version?

Part of me would rather DIY but in reality I would rather just spend the time learning to take better pics. Plus for $39, if the neck is really stable and sturdy why bother?

I know more than a few folks here use or have used this bracket so any insight would be much depreciated!

[LordV]

I sort of like the simplicity of this bracket. I like the flexible neck for macro (just got my Sigma 180 f2.8 (well, it will be here tomorrow... ) But I have a question.

My biggest question is how stable is the neck? I know it will support my 430ex II fine under calm or indoor conditions. But we live in an area with pretty dependable 10-20MPH winds every day. So, just how 'bouncy' is the 7" neck version?

Part of me would rather DIY but in reality I would rather just spend the time learning to take better pics. Plus for $39, if the neck is really stable and sturdy why bother?

I know more than a few folks here use or have used this bracket so any insight would be much depreciated!

No direct experience but from comments of other users , the bracket fittings are not well made, it does however perform reasonably well but does start to sag after a bit of use. Not sure what a bouncing flash head would do for image clarity though :)

[brecklundin]

Thanks for the info...that was exactly what I was concerned about...I think I might either do a DIY or something from Custom Brackets. Though I did run across an interesting Flip Bracket from Alzo the other say also.

My biggest desire is to be able to get the flash to the end of my Sigma 180mm macro, if the silly thing ever arrives from the clutches of the USPS... ;)

I did read the "Show us your rig" (or whatever it's exact name) and found a lot of really interesting ideas.

Anyway, thanks for the info...I wish there was a camera store closer than a 120mi round trip...sigh, that's what happens living in a city with a "paper napkin palate". We have a camera store but I swear, given the inventory they have (mostly junk from the 80s, including the dust), is some sort of drug money clearing house. It must be all of about 300sq. ft. ???

[EdV]

I have the Delta Flip Flash Bracket, use it for macro with a 430 EX flash and like it BUT there are a couple of things you have to keep in mind.

First, the slide bracket on top of the arm is worthless. Remove it by unscrewing the knob underneath and attach the remote shoe directly to the bracket. This makes the attachment of the flash much more stable.

Second, the flexible arm will sag. But I must say that I think that is particularly the case if you try to keep the flash straight up. I carry this set up around my neck with my tripod over my shoulder and I leave the arm bent forward with the flash and LumiQuest Softbox leaning over the front of the lens. And that is no problem.

As I said, I like this bracket for macro but it is what it is -a $39 bracket. You could go with a Wimberley for a lot more bucks.

[brecklundin]

EdV:

Thanks so much for the info on your experience with the bracket. Your setup is pretty much exactly what I have in mind if I get it. I did sort of expect the flash to wobble a bit if the camera is moved, as in carrying it around. My thought was, probably much like Brian noted, is what might happen if the flash wobbles while I am taking a shot.

Still my thought if I do get this bracket is one could always rubber band the goose-neck to the lens just to hold it steady once it's in the position you want. Because, as you mention it's only $39...

While I am deciding what to try first, that is if I am "allowed" to spend any more on camera gear this year, or, well, lifetime (read that as: I just bought a new Sigma 180mm....heh heh) Anyway, I designed up a bracket that mounts to the foot of the lens while still allowing to mount on a tripod with the bracket attached. I also found an off camera flash cable that has a tilting flash-shoe style mount on the end. Using one or two mini ballheads I should be able to get the flash over the end of the lens and have all the ability to reposition the flash I might need, even with the Softbox. The total cost will be well under $15 for materials (not including the ballheads). If it works I found a style of Krylon that comes close to matching the finish on Sigma lenses... :)

Again, thanks a lot for posting your experiences with the bracket. Worst I would be out is the $45ish it would cost with shipping. If I don't care for it, I'm sure it could be sold on eBay, or even here, for $25.