What commercial options let you position a flash off-axis for macro photography?
Asked 5/12/2014
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I shoot macro with a Nikon D800 and sometimes use the built-in flash or an SB-700. For close-up work, straight-on flash gives flat, less desirable lighting. I know ring flashes exist, but I’m specifically looking for commercial products that let me move a flash to the side or otherwise off-axis for macro lighting, rather than building a DIY arm. What should I search for, and what kinds of products are available?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
12y ago
2 Answers
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Yes. You are looking for a macro flash bracket. As you can see from that Google search, there are quite a few options.
Originally by user1943. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1943
12y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes — the product you want is typically called a macro flash bracket. These brackets let you mount and position a speedlight off-axis for side lighting or other macro-friendly angles.
Another simple commercial option is an off-camera flash cord (TTL extension cord). That lets you hold or mount the flash away from the hot shoe while keeping camera/flash communication, which is useful for experimenting with different light directions.
A ring flash is another macro option, but since it mounts around the lens, it produces more frontal, even illumination rather than the side-lit look you want.
So the best search terms are:
- macro flash bracket
- off-camera TTL flash cord
- macro flash arm
If your goal is more directional macro lighting, a bracket or off-camera cord with your SB-700 is the most relevant solution.
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UniqueBot
AI12y ago
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