Another convert

[Graham_of_Rainham]

http://steveashtonphotography.co.uk/2016/05/10/left-fuji-system-behind-moved-olympus/

[Greytop]

Re: Another convert

A very interesting read, thanks for the link Graham.

[Internaut]

Re: Another convert

There are so many little things Olympus just gets right. I was surprised at the flash observations. I've been able to make use of off camera flash since my E-30 (and with no wires or complex radio setup).

[Ross the fiddler]

Re: Another convert

There are so many little things Olympus just gets right. I was surprised at the flash observations. I've been able to make use of off camera flash since my E-30 (and with no wires or complex radio setup).

I guess the Metz recharges quicker & in those uses it would make a difference. I can fire off sequential shots with Olympus flashes if little power is used (close use), but if relying on it for work like his then buying something else that works better is the best move from my point of view. It's good to know that the Metz is a viable good option (with various level of power options in their models).

[Graham_of_Rainham]

Re: Another convert

...I was surprised at the flash observations. I've been able to make use of off camera flash since my E-30 (and with no wires or complex radio setup).

I expect he is referring to the new guns. My FL-50Rs and even the FL36R are very easy to use, even with my big hands. As for recharge time, there is very little difference between any guns, and it's often the batteries that will make a big difference. I use Sanyo Eneloop 2400mAh., which brings the guns up to full charge in only a few seconds from a 100% discharge.

[Ross the fiddler]

Re: Another convert

I expect he is referring to the new guns. My FL-50Rs and even the FL36R are very easy to use, even with my big hands. As for recharge time, there is very little difference between any guns, and it's often the batteries that will make a big difference. I use Sanyo Eneloop 2400mAh., which brings the guns up to full charge in only a few seconds from a 100% discharge.

Speaking of batteries, I have been using those Eneloop batteries quite successfully in those above flashes for some time (originally from Sanyo before Panasonic bought them out).


But, the Eneloop Pro are even better for flash use now they're rated at up 2550mAh, but they can only be charged 500 times as opposed to about 2000 X for the standard long life versions above).

[Naughty Nigel]

Re: Another convert

Speaking of batteries, I have been using those Eneloop batteries quite successfully in those above flashes for some time (originally from Sanyo before Panasonic bought them out).


But, the Eneloop Pro are even better for flash use now they're rated at up 2550mAh, but they can only be charged 500 times as opposed to about 2000 X for the standard long life versions above).

Thanks for raising that point Ross.

I have been using the Eneloop cells for a while, and they are excellent. They are ideal for use in flashguns, as (unlike ordinary NiMh cells) they will still be charged when you need them!

I have also found them excellent in our cordless telephones.

You are correct about the suggested 500 charge limit for the Pro version, but that is still a lot of charges for a high capacity battery. I think you will find that those figures apply when using the Panasonic fast (two-hour) charger, which I am not too keen on.

Like all rechargeable batteries they will last much longer and hold more power if charged at a lower current with a regular 150 or 200 mA charger. To calculate the correct charge time simply divide the cell's capacity by the chargers output current and multiply that figure by 1.6.

As an example, a 2,500 mA/Hr cell should be charged at 200 mA for about 20 hours.

[Jim Ford]

Re: Another convert

I've used disposable lithium batteries for my FL50R flashgun:

http://www.energizer.com/batteries/energizer-ultimate-lithium-batteries

They work very well.

* They give a full 1.5V and have a low internal resistance, so they cycle the gun quickly.
* They lose very little charge in storage (up to 20 years is claimed), which is important for me as I don't often use the flashgun.
* They're very light in weight, which is noticeable with four in the gun.

Jim

[Naughty Nigel]

Re: Another convert

I've used disposable lithium batteries for my FL50R flashgun:

http://www.energizer.com/batteries/energizer-ultimate-lithium-batteries

They work very well.

* They give a full 1.5V and have a low internal resistance, so they cycle the gun quickly.
* They lose very little charge in storage (up to 20 years is claimed), which is important for me as I don't often use the flashgun.
* They're very light in weight, which is noticeable with four in the gun.

Jim

I tried the Energiser cells a few years ago but didn't find them as good as regular Duracells. Maybe I should try them again?

They are certainly very light and as you say the claimed storage life is good.

[Bikie John]

Re: Another convert

Like Jim, I rarely use flash, and I found the Energiser Lithiums to be pretty good. Back in the days when Boots was a useful shop they often used to have them on BOGOF, but I haven't seen that for a while.

John

[Naughty Nigel]

Re: Another convert

Back in the days when Boots was a useful shop ............

John

But they do sell Ilford B&W 120 roll film now.

Just don't ask them to process it.

[Bikie John]

Re: Another convert

I'm sure the branch here had Kodachrome long after there was nowhere left to process it. I did have the decency to point out that it might be a good idea to withdraw it.

John