Jay, > My question is regarding the AF080C ring flash. Is a used one in > excellent condition worth $150 US? > Those of you who have used it are you pleased with it and is it > invaluable for macros of flowers and insects?
I've never used a ring flash. However, I do remember reading about them and can only offer the following second-hand advice. I've seen some examples where ring flashes produce ring-shaped catchlights in the eyes of insects. For some people, this is a problem as it looks pretty unnatrual. On the other hand, I have also seen photography books that have plenty of insect photos with ring-shaped catch-lights AND photos with double catch- lights (from dual flash), so obviously such photos are publishable by *somebodies* standards. Either way, there are ways to avoid this, even if you do choose to use ring flashes. A quick google search will likely give you more details on this if you'd like. Lastly, with respect to macro photography in general (and with Pentax equipment in particular), a good place to start to answer some of your other questions may be here: http://markcassino.com/essays/insectphoto.htm Our very own Mark Cassino wrote a pretty good essay on the subject some time ago, and plenty have found it a worthy read. For the corresponding gallery, you can check out his insect photos here: http://markcassino.com/galleries/insects/insects.htm There are plenty of other essays on macro photography on the internet, but I thought that it might be neat to read one that was Pentax specific rather than some "random" essay out there. Anyhow, hope that helps. Best regards, - Jerome
