I’m trying not to reinvent the wheel here so I will post this instead of answering emails with the same question over and over.
If you use Nikon CLS or Canon Wireless flash system, you can take it to a next level using stands and umbrellas. I’m going to show you a very basic and affordable way to use you Nikon or Canon flash using a stand, flash bracket and umbrella. This is my very basic set-up, easy to use and very lightweight with great results yet affordable.
What are we looking below?
This is a simple Umbrella Bracket from Impact. You need this flash bracket for 2 reasons: To be able to set your flash at different angles, and also to attach your umbrella. No flash bracket, no umbrella.
Below you can see two stands with flash brackets, one has a SB-600 flash, the other one a SB-800 with a Nikon SD8A battery pack attached to it.
OK, the stands are IMPACT‘s 2299 that will set you back just $19.99 at B&H Photo. They go up to 6′ and when retracted they are around 24”.
Now, going back to the Umbrella braket: it does include an aluminum shoe for your flash, see the picture below. Whatever you do, DON’T use it. It is metal thus conductive, your flash pins are very close to it and you might short your flash(es). Instead, use it without it. There is a male 1/4” #20 thread connector that you can attach your Nikon or Canon flash stand to it as seen on the picture above.
Last but not least, the UMBRELLA. This is very subjective but I will recommend you a 30”convertible umbrella. I use Photoflex umbrellas but theImpact umbrellas are a good start especially if you are in a budget or don’t want to spend too much.
*IMPACT’s umbrella, click here ($14.99)
*IMPACT Umbrella Bracket, click here ($13.99)
* IMPACT 6′ light stand click here ($19.99)
Total: $48.97 + S&H per flash setting.
However if you wish to use 2 flashes, B&H Photo already have a set for 2 flashes which includes 2 8′ air cushioned stands as seen below for just $98.95 + S&H.
Click here to check it out.
Question – where would I purchase the “male 1/4” #20 thread connector…” I search on B&H and online but not sure I was looking at the correct item.
Also, do you still like this set-up? I have a Nikon D80 and D90 and working on learning about lighting. I do not have a big budget, do trying to learn with inexpensive but good quality tools and ideas. Many thanks
… DON’T use it. It is metal thus conductive, your flash pins are very close to it and you might short your flash(es). Instead, use it without it. There is a male 1/4” #20 thread connector that you can attach your Nikon or Canon flash stand to it as seen on the picture above.
Hello Lisa, thanks for writing. Yes, I do love this flash and umbrella set-up, it is so portable and I use it very often. The Male connector 1/4” #20 comes included with the umbrella bracket. It is actually holding the aluminum hotshoe that I’m recommending not to use. That thread is 1/4 # 20, the same thread size of your Nikon AS-19 & AS-21 speedlight stand. The AS-19 comes included with your Nikon SB-600 and/or Nikon SB-800 whereas the AS-21 comes included with the newest Nikon SB-900 flash unit. If you are actaully looking for an extra connector, here it is at B&H:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546497-REG/Manfrotto_by_Bogen_Imaging_118_118_Universal_Short_Spigot.html/BI/2043/KBID/2754
is it possible to use the same equipment with the Nikon D50?
As far as I know it does not support command wireless mode…
As far as I know, Nikon states that their D50 cannot trigger an SB-800. What I’ve seen is a handful of folks using the SU-800 which was used to trigger the flashes for the pictures above. The SU-800 might sound as an ”expensive” alternative, but this is the kind of accessory that you can take with you in your next Nikon camera upgrade.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/410490-USA/Nikon_4794_SU_800_Wireless_Speedlight_Commander.html/BI/2043/KBID/2754
Hola George,
Since a few days i use the su800 to trigger a sb900 and a sb600.
After some struggle with the settings i must say it’s a great tool.
In Holland i paid €264,- for the Su800.
regards arthur
I have a Nikon D90 and SB600. I am so glad i found this info on your setup. I plan to buy the kits at b&h as i live in NY. But do you think i should buy a sb800 or 900, instead of another sb600.
Also in the photo with the unbrella, the umbrella looks as if there is lamp in it. is that the flash or do you have something else in it.
Thanks