Review: Really Right Stuff B87-B Perfect Portrait Package

geogecko wrote in post #11798404
Been searching for someone using one of these as a macro flash setup. Does that seem like something that could be done with this? I've got a set of 580EXII's, so really, using something like this, over the Canon 14 or 24 macro flash units would actually be cheaper, since I already have the flash units...or at least, pretty close. If I wanted to use two, I'd have to get another flash adapter, but would probably just start with one. I was thinking that perhaps you could use an E-TTL cord to go to one flash, and trigger the other via IR, for a dual setup, or possibly go wireless, and use manual mode on the flashes. Seems like the possibilities would be endless.

Question is, can the flash heads be positioned properly to place them close to, say a 100mm f/2.8L lens, to do macro work? Based on this last picture, I'm thinking so...

I've used the B87-B for macro photography with one flash and sometimes two. Regarding Ben's concern about getting the flash head close to the front of the lens, I use the RRS Flash Extender to position the flash anywhere I want it.

The only thing is, the whole combo can get heavy after a while, especially with two flashes mounted, so the use of a tripod or a monopod may be wise.

Interesting, good pros/cons from both sides. I have to admit, I'm addicted to RRS stuff (LOL, what would that be, RRSSS - really right stuff stuff syndrome?).

Perhaps the weight would be an issue. I would want this setup for mainly hand holding, so it may be better to wait for the next version of the MT-24EX... Any rumors of that actually happening?

geogecko wrote in post #11798643
Interesting, good pros/cons from both sides. I have to admit, I'm addicted to RRS stuff (LOL, what would that be, RRSSS - really right stuff stuff syndrome?).

Perhaps the weight would be an issue. I would want this setup for mainly hand holding, so it may be better to wait for the next version of the MT-24EX... Any rumors of that actually happening?

If you plan on doing a lot of macro photography, then the MT-24EX might make more sense. I don't do that much of it so the RRS setup works just fine for me. I don't mind using a monopod mainly because I have a hard time keeping my hands and camera steady anyway even without the weight being an issue.

And if I HAVE to go handheld, I have the lighter and smaller Nikon D90 (versus the 1D MK III) and the Nikon Wireless Close-up Speedlight system.

You never know when Canon might come out with a new version of MT-24EX but I wouldn't hold my breath if I were you.

Yea def not. The MT-24EX is still a very good unit.

LOL, I guess that's what the Sell Forum is for...buy it now, instead of waiting for the next best thing. Thanks for the advice.

I've used it for macro and close up work, small flowers, etc.

The only issue I have is with the articulating flash mount when using the flash on an extension. When push forward of vertical for getting the flash out in front of the lens for macro work I can't get it lock solidly because of the leverage from the weight of the flash head, I have to hold the extension with my left hand. I would much prefer it to have indexing for a solid lock.

Aside from that, I totally love my RRS stuff.

windpig wrote in post #11798991
I've used it for macro and close up work, small flowers, etc.

The only issue I have is with the articulating flash mount when using the flash on an extension. When push forward of vertical for getting the flash out in front of the lens for macro work I can't get it lock solidly because of the leverage from the weight of the flash head, I have to hold the extension with my left hand. I would much prefer it to have indexing for a solid lock.

Aside from that, I totally love my RRS stuff.

I'm thinking about picking this up but I'm curious what model/lens/flash combo you're using for the macro?

mchong75 wrote in post #11868415
I'm thinking about picking this up but I'm curious what model/lens/flash combo you're using for the macro?

Canon
100mm L macro
24-105 F4

430EXII

windpig wrote in post #11798991
I've used it for macro and close up work, small flowers, etc.

The only issue I have is with the articulating flash mount when using the flash on an extension. When push forward of vertical for getting the flash out in front of the lens for macro work I can't get it lock solidly because of the leverage from the weight of the flash head, I have to hold the extension with my left hand. I would much prefer it to have indexing for a solid lock.

Aside from that, I totally love my RRS stuff.

jay_jay_n wrote in post #11463243
well after getting it and really not having a lot of work to utilize in (no time or gigs), it does work great and very easy and very portable.. the advantage is that i can pop it in and off easily from my bag, and yeah its very expensive when u add up everything, especially when using a wireless ttl flash trigger instead of a corded one, then getting L brackets for each camera and with grip or without ( i have both ) there is a brand i saw on ebay that is fairly cheap and looks pretty kool i forgot the name but seems like a pretty good bracket but i do really like that i just turn it easily without much effort.. it does seem a lot of weight even though the peices don't seem heavy at all i guess its the balance of weight.. when doing video omg it gets to u when recording a party lol.

one major advantage i love about the bracket that i haven't seen any other bracket do, is that it can tilt forward and for some reason i really get better e-ttl shots when i tilt it forward.

Sorry bad pic and without grip..

| Byte size: ZERO | Content warning: NOT AN IMAGE

btw the wow factor at parties and having a bigger setup then these lil kiddies is a plus LOL

windpig wrote in post #11868451
Canon
100mm L macro
24-105 F4

430EXII

So, are you using the bracket that attaches to the L bracket like above pic?

If so, it looks like (100L IS) might clear from the top (Flash head angled facing down past the front of the lens) as well as (Flash head angled positioned side of the glass)

mchong75 wrote in post #11868610
So, are you using the bracket that attaches to the L bracket like above pic?

If so, it looks like (100L IS) might clear from the top (Flash head angled facing down past the front of the lens) as well as (Flash head angled positioned side of the glass)

I've used it in this configuration, but I primarily use it with an extension.

Something fun I thought of with my 400mm 2.8L II... Hehheehheehhehehe...

IMAGE LINK: http://www.flickr.com/​photos/airbutchie/5517​453452/

Wow, that is amazing.

Looks like your 400mm has seen some heavy use!

geogecko wrote in post #12032318
Wow, that is amazing.

Looks like your 400mm has seen some heavy use!

Truly a camera porn picture.

Where are the photos that confirm the flash bracket works like a charm or that this is one of those "never sell" items? We need some "before & after" and "with & without" photos.

KRUSH wrote in post #12280940
Where are the photos that confirm the flash bracket works like a charm or that this is one of those "never sell" items? We need some "before & after" and "with & without" photos.

The results are not really the selling point of this system. Any flash bracket can get you good results, including NO flash bracket and just hand holding a flash above your lens. But that doesnt sound too easy now does it? No, the selling point of a good flash bracket is all the criteria I listed I was looking for in my first post. This is IMO the most solid platform on the market and the most stable and secure option I could find at the time. It also satisfied and in cases exceeded my originally desired criteria for what I wanted in a flash bracket. There are many other options that can get you the same shot, but lesser systems will come at the cost of being able to consistently, securely, be minimal in size, incompatible with your existing gear. Or any number of other issues. For me, and for many others, its simply the right tool for the job and a perfect match.