External Flash?

[bradttu]

Any recommendations on an external flash for my A100? I know Sony has one, but I saw that Sigma has one as well. What about buying a hot-shoe adapter and using another brand?

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[GEli]

Before going out and spending reams on the latest Sony TTL flash, you might want to consider an older auto flash. These don't communicate with the camera body much besides the body telling it when to fire - you have to manually dial in the f-stop you're using and a rough estimate of how far your subject is from the flash. It's a bit slower going, and something you probably shouldn't consider if you're shooting weddings or doing any other 'high stakes' photography where you need perfect exposure fast and every time, but if you're just learning it may be of great use to you. The main advantage is the cost - a good auto flash will cost you maybe $100 brand new, whereas most decent TTL flashes are at least $300. You'll also become very good at estimating subject distance and setting the flash power on the fly, meaning that should you ever upgrade to a TTL flash you won't be completely in the dark should you come across an odd situation where the TTL metering breaks down and you need to set the flash manually.

Just something to consider.

[brisyd]

GELi has some very good points. I'm currently using an older flash on my A100, and all it does is fire full blast. Unfortunately, I can't set the power levels on it so I'm stuck. I too, was looking at the Sigmas. I saw the DG530(?) for $249 or $189 for the other model. I thought they are TTL compatible for the A100 but don't quote me on that. There's also a Sigma 500 around, might want tot check into that.

[PhotogMom]

Geli that is interesting...thanks for the info. obviously I am looking for the same thing as the OP. I don't know a lot about external flash but I know it would be a useful tool for me. I will do some research on what you mentioned. Or then maybe a $300 flash for mothers day wouldn't be a bad idea! :D