Do hot shoe flashes make a big diff over built in speedlights?

[aphex]

I have a Nikon D70 (as im sure many of you know) and have been thinking about picking up an SB600 flash...

Will i notice a significant difference over the built in flash?
Worth the $180 or so it will end up costing me?

The wireless features look great for being able to take shots w/ varied lighting.... I just dunno if i need an external flash...

 

[dug777]

massively if you are going to use the flash much

tho i can't comment on that particular model.

 

[aphex]

Originally posted by: dug777
massively if you are going to use the flash much

tho i can't comment on that particular model.

Well i usually use the flash most of the time to help fill in the shadows (as long as im not in direct sunlight)

 

[kranky]

Any quality external flash will greatly outperform a built-in.

 

[Anubis]

yes the hotshoe flashes are like portable suns

<- loves his SB-800

 

[WW]

I've got a canon g6 and 420EX, but same principles apply. It's necessary for big rooms, etc. If you can bounce it off the ceiling it really helps to remove overpowering shadows. Get a slip on diffuser, because sometimes it's 'too much' light if close to the subject.

Also, flash units seem to hold their value well. See the prices on ebay for used ones. Get it, and if you find that you don't use it too much, sell it a year later for $20 less

 

[arcas]

There's no comparison between a well-positioned external flash and a built-in one, no matter how good it is.

 

[ggnl]

The built in flash on the D70 is crap. If you're going to use a flash, an external is the only way to go.

 

[aphex]

Worth the additional $14 for a "real" us version w/ warranty over a import?

 

[PricklyPete]

Originally posted by: kranky
Any quality external flash will greatly outperform a built-in.

What he said...it really is important.

 

[harrkev]

Here are the differences...

1) Longer range and brighter. Some of the more expensive flashes even have a zoom feature. They can "zoom" the flash with a movable lens. So if you are taking a shot at 300mm, the flash will tighten down to throw morelight at the target.

2) Bounce. This is a biggie. If you get a flash that tilts, you can aim the flash at the ceiling for a more natural look. To me, this is one of the best reasons to get a good flash.

3) Distance from the lens. The closer that your flash is to the lens, the more chance of red-eye.

 

[harrkev]

Originally posted by: aphex
Worth the additional $14 for a "real" us version w/ warranty over a import?

Yes. What you are talking about is a "gray market" camera. I would avoid them unless you are saving a bundle, as "international warranties" are usually useless in the USA. Since the dollar is weak compared to the euro, there are almost no savings to be found.

 

[aphex]

Originally posted by: harrkev

Originally posted by: aphex
Worth the additional $14 for a "real" us version w/ warranty over a import?

Yes. What you are talking about is a "gray market" camera. I would avoid them unless you are saving a bundle, as "international warranties" are usually useless in the USA. Since the dollar is weak compared to the euro, there are almost no savings to be found.

Well the both of them are from BH... $194 for the US, $179 for the import. I have a $50 GC to throw down as well...