Vivitar 285HV on F2A vs. Sb 24,25,25 on F4S

[alexander_gisoldi]

I'm currently using a Nikon F2A with a Vivitar 285HV. The F2 offers no TTL so

I opted for the 285. For fill-flash I know there are many who have perfected

this combination and I know it depends on certain factors, but what I'd like

to know is if a more modern flash such as the SB 24, 25,26 on a Nikon F4s body

would make fill-flash and general flash more foolproof. As I said previously

I don't always get optimal results from the 285--definitely user error on my

part. I know flash technology is light years ahead on the F4 vs the F2, but

I'd like to know opinions on whether I'd see considerably better results with

an SB24,25,26 on a matrix metering capable camera with automatic fill flash

capability vs. the fully manual F2/Vivitar 285HV combination. Is it just

convenience factor with the more modern cameras, in this case being the F4?

Can identical results be achieved with both camera/flash combinations if the

user knows what he's doing--in this case me? I ask all these questions

because I am contemplating buying an F4s and would like to know if I am going

to simplify my life and guarantee almost foolproof flash results in any mode.

I believe the F4s does not do balanced fill-flash in matrix metering--only in

center-weighted. Is that going to give me the equivalent of the F2/285

combination? There are also other features of the pro F4S body such as it

ruggedness and built-in motor drive that are factors. The fact that I have

all manual AI-S lenses also weighs heavily in my decision. I thank everyone

in advance for any input or suggestions.

[Michael R Freeman]

<i>"I believe the F4s does not do balanced fill-flash in matrix metering--only in center-weighted."</i><P>

 

Not entirely correct IIRC. The ambient part of the exposure will be matrix metered, while the flash portion is center-weighted.

<P>

I don't own an F2 so I can't compare directly, although I do have experience with the 285HV. While one can certainly achieve the same results with an F2A/285HV combo *if* one knows exactly how to do it, for *me* the F4/SB-25 combo (now a SB-28) has been pretty much iddiot-proof.

<P>

The F4 (or any other modern Nikon) will certainly make it a lot easier.

[Michael R Freeman]

Apparently the forum software has been recently modified, since I can no longer call myself a (spelled correctly) iddiot. At least, I think I used to be able to call myself an iddiot.

 

Perhaps this is the kinder, gentler photo.net that Philip is trying to restore? :-)

[alexander_gisoldi]

Michael: Thanks for the input. Now I just have to decide whether or not to invest more money in a film camera or bite the bullet and buy a Nikon digital--that's another forum though.

[alex_lofquist]

If you have never worked with an F4S, it's a great learning tool. It will do almost anything that the F5 will do except being compatable with VR and G lenses. I still prefer mine for macro and manual focussing over my F5. I would recommend the SB24 (and later) for use with it. Considering current used prices, I don't see how you can go wrong!