Question about Flash extender for Long lens

[Bubble]

anyone in here that use 500IS or 600IS with flash bracket extender? if you do, can you tell me which brand/model? My RRS B91-B Flash Bracket couldn't fit the 600IS.

Thanks

[gymell]

I use a Wimberley (http://www.tripodhead.com/products/flash-bracket-telephoto-brackets.cfm) telephoto flash bracket with my 500. It is a modular system, so extenders can be added if need be, but their F-1 Telephoto Bracket kit easily clears the 500.

[cadams]

Kind of off topic but do these really make a difference? I'm currently just shooting it from the hot shoe. If the bird is 40ft away can the 8in closer really make that much difference? Or is it meant to get better angle of view because of the length of the lenses. Please enlighten me!

[gymell]

I'm pretty inexperienced when it comes to flash, but from what I've read it puts the flash at a slightly different angle than the camera, so possibly reduces the red eye effect, helps with reducing shadows, more even lighting. With a long telephoto, the lens hood can block part of the flash beam, so putting the flash up higher can help with that. Also, a flash bracket just looks cool! ;)

[cadams]

I'll give you the fact that it looks cool and I could see an issue at short distances having the hood block the flash but it cant make too much difference at normal shooting range. I just got my Gimbal head so once I get used to that I may look into it.
Chris

[gymell]

Yeah, for fill flash, which is what one would typically be using for birds, probably most of those aren't an issue. On the other hand, photographing owls at night would require stronger flash and then red eye would definitely be a consideration.

[andrewhuxman]

I use on my 500, this model the Wimberley flash bracket.
http://www.naturescapes.net/store/product.php?productid=50&cat=22&page=1

I also took off the Canon lens mount plate and put this in its place ,its longer and I believe a little lighter then the Canon one. I have the LP-53
http://www.kirkphoto.com/newlensplate4.html

It is the Arca Swiss type and it works well for me and I also have the Better Beamer for my 430EX Speedlite
http://www.naturescapes.net/store/home.php?cat=21