> 2. David, can't you limit the output of your flash as I can here with the > Metz's and the Pentax AF280T. > Then flash would work in auto mode even closer than 50cm. What close up > distances are talking about, > less than 20 cm?
Yes, around 20cm, f22, flash at full power, handheld, reproduction ratio 1:2 with 135mm and some extension tubes. It is a Sunpak 383 Super, maybe it can work this close in auto mode but I don't trust it any more as I need to use the full power of the flash to get to f22 and I don't think auto can work this close and give accurate exposures. Right now I measure and set everything at home and then when I am taking a picture I just repeat the whole setup and leave focus at the same point and just focus with my head, reproduction ratio is always the same as that is the only way this can work. I think that TTL flash would solve all my problems, I would not have to calculate anything or be at the same distance and focus point all the time, I could even take the flash of camera and provide better lighting. I keep it on the camera right now to keep constant distance between the flash and the subject. Distance measurement has to be exact as at these distances every inch matters regarding flash. I was also shooting film until now so I would not know if exposure is ok until I develop the slides, it is much easier with digital. :)
