100 2.8 macro use with flash

[Dave C]

I have just got hold of a new 100 macro(usm) I`m trying to work out the best flash set up. I`ve heard that you can get good results with the 550ex(which I have but I also have an old ring flash, it takes series 7 adapters(if you can remember them) I need a 58 series 7 adapter to try it out( are they still available?)
The centre of the ring flash is approx 55mm so it is a touch smaller than the filter thread of the lens so if i use the lens stooped well down would I get cut off do you think?

Thanks in advance

[50/1.4]

The 1.6 or 1.3 FOV crop should allow you to get away with this. If you have the 1DS, you might not be able to get away with it, but OTOH you have a 1DS, a nice problem to have!!! Good luck.

[snoleopard]

Hi,

I think you will get some vignetting, stopping down will not get rid of a vignette and the crop factor does not get rid of it either. It might be a very small amount and may not be noticeable or can be cropped out in photoshop.

Alan

[Dave C]

I managed to find one and it`s on the way( I have 1Ds)
I put the flash just inside the lens lip and no cut off so it might be ok. the 100 macro front element doesn`t actually come to close to the out side edge of the barrel.
I`ll let you know when it arrives. It`s an old ring flash made by DOI (you might rmember that name from years ago) it doesn`t have adjustable output but with the variation in shutter speed and f stop + iso adjustments it should be ok.

Thanks

[Dave C]

I can tell you that holding that 100 2.8 macro is an all new ball game. Tripod and mirror up with cable release is the way to go. I intend to do a comparison against the 28-135 IS and see just how much the IS makes up for lack of resolving power. I`m hoping that the ring flash makes the lens more hand holdable. The knack as i see it is to balance the flash so that it just looks like a touch of fill in rather than a night time shot. I have no adjustment on the ring flash and find it hard to balance the f stop and shutter speed to get the effect, maybe I should make something up to semi cover the tube?
With the extra distance afforded by the 100mm I`m going to see just how using the 550ex comes off.
Any tips and advice accepted(Roger)

[WalStro]

You might want to check into the Lepp bracket now sold by Stroboframe.