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tim
10th of April 2005 (Sun), 18:41
I've been convinced of the worth of a flash bracket by a few experienced people here, so now i'm trying to choose one. I've split this thread off another, so i'll put the input of people below here for reference.

I need a flash bracket to shoot a wedding, my first wedding, I may do more or I may not. My budget $130 unless there's a REALLY good reason to go higher, or if a cheap one like the 350 will do as well, great. It's for my 20D, I have no plans to get a grip or a 1 series camera, and I don't mind selling this and upgrading later if I find I need something else. I'd like it to be lightweight and easy to handle, again that's probably what everyone wants. My questions are:
- Does the Stroboframe Quick Flip 350 let you use it both tripod mounted and carrying it around? If so, is the flip action reasonably quick and simple?
- Is there a lightweight frame in my price range that will stay still and just rotate the camera around at the bottom of the frame?
- For whatever frame you recommend, are there any other parts I need, like anti-twist plates, or mounting thingies?

Thanks for any suggestions. Oh, in case anyone's interested, I found this page (http://www.cs.mtu.edu/~shene/DigiCam/User-Guide/EXT-FLASH/OTHER/Stroboframe-Quick-Flip-350.html) on the Stroboframe 350.

Tim

The 35mm Stroboframe is a useful flash bracket. I have seen more complicated brands, and brands which seem more suited to specific purposes other than wedding photography. I like the Stroboframe simply because it is (for me) a comfortable fit.

(different post)

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=52728&is=REG

If you search the site you'll see other models which may appeal to you more, but the model 350 worked fine for me.

I've put mine on a tripod. Most (if not all) models will accept a standard tripod screw to allow for either direct attachment to a tripod or for screwing on a tripod attachment plate.


Also check out the Stroboframe Pro-RL. It allows for 10/20D w/grip to do portait shots. Although more expensive, this bracket will allow you to grow into full frame DSLR's. Bloo Dog's link provides a search capability to locate this bracket.

Not sure if the Quick Flip allows you to connect camera AND tripod. Probably has two adjacent holes but the holes have to be apart enough to allow for your camera connection thread (to bracket) and then space to allow for connection to tripod.

The Pro-RL has a separate camera mount (which can swivel to portrait) which is separate from the base of the bracket - which is freestanding. The freestanding option of the Pro-RL is VERY handy.

tim
10th of April 2005 (Sun), 19:58
Does anyone have any experience with the Stroboframe Camera Flip? It looks like a little brother to the Pro-RL, and it costs a bit over half what the pro one costs.

robertwgross
10th of April 2005 (Sun), 20:28
When I went to shoot my first wedding, I got a flash bracket by Stratos. It and Stroboframe were the only two decent ones that my Canon dealer offered from stock.

Also, just like anything else, you have to mount your camera on it and get the hang of it. It takes just a little arm strength and coordination to use it and flip it.

I have a quick release system on my tripod head, and I have the quick release mounts to put on my camera or on a big lens. Well, to put the camera on the bracket, you pretty much have to take the quick release mount off the camera. So, I moved it to the bottom of the flash bracket so that it will sit on the tripod pan-tilt head.

---Bob Gross---

tim
10th of April 2005 (Sun), 20:35
I plan on using it on a tripod/monopod mainly, they sound quite annoying to use hand held.

Any advice on which model would be a good choice Bob?