The Best Ring Flash
A ring flash is an ideal tool for professional and serious amateur photographers who want that clear, well-lit shot. Ring flashes are mainly used for macro, or closeup photography, and for portraits. Ring lights are a circular light that allows your lens to poke through the middle. When you discharge the flash it floods the subject with well-balanced, soft light that often doesn't need to be diffused.
Macro vs. Portrait
The first question, besides your budget, you will need to consider is what you plan on using the ring flash for. Using a ring flash in macro photography that's designed for portraits will not function quite as well as a ring flash designed specifically for macro photography, and vice-versa. This is due to the different distances between macro and portrait photography. So to light your subject evenly and without shadows, you will need the proper ring flash that works specifically for that distance.
Batteries vs. Plug-ins
You will also want to consider what style and strength of batteries you will need for your photography. If you need a portable ring flash, the battery option is best. They are lightweight and easy to carry, because many offer a belt clip attachment. But they may not have enough power for your needs and can run out juice during the middle of a shoot. A ring flash with a plug-in option works great for studio settings. These also offer higher power and more light, but can't be taken with you.
Don't Fry Your Camera
Next, you will want to find a specific model that works with your camera. Buy one that doesn't have a higher voltage than your camera or else you can fry your camera's circuitry. Many older model flash rings for SLRs have a much higher voltage discharge than your new digital SLR can handle, and if you fry your camera it won't be covered under warranty. It is recommended to purchase the same brand flash ring as your camera.
Adapters For Lenses
Some flash rings also require you to purchase extra adapters to fit on different size lenses. This can start to add up on a tight budget, so you'll need to consider the lenses you use and whether the flash ring will need adapters or are adjustable.
Single Light Bulb vs. Multiple Bulbs
A final thing to consider before purchasing a ring flash is whether you want it to have a single, continuous bulb or one with multiple connected bulbs. A ring flash with multiple connected bulbs is ideal because you can use the bulbs independent of each other, which may add depth to your shot, but may also cast some shadows. A single bulb flash ring works well for portraits because it gives a flat, even lighting, but some photographers may not enjoy this because it can produce a light ring around your subject.
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