Sony announce HVL-F43AM Flashgun

Sony has announced today the HVL-F43AM shoe-mounted, bounce and swivel (Quick Shift) flashgun for A- and E-mount cameras. It has a guide number of GN43 (105mm ISO100 m) and is said to be dust- and moisture-resistant. There's no word yet on price but it will be available soon (Spring 2011).

Sony has also announced the VCT-55LH multi-purpose bracket, as well as a new VCT-55LH case (not pictured) and hood for DT 35mm F1.8 SAM and 85mm F2.8 SAM lenses (not pictured).

Press release:

HVL-F43AM external flash
With a powerful output of GN43 (105mm ISO100 m), the compact yet versatile HVL-F43AM flash from Sony is optimised for superb results with all A-mount cameras.
As featured on the HVL-F58AM, the innovative Quick Shift Bounce system allows flash head position to be adjusted instantly when switching between horizontal and vertical compositions. This maintains consistent shadow positions regardless of camera orientation, allowing easy creation of natural-looking ‘bounce’ effects.
Smart flash functions open up even broader creative lightning possibilities.

Wireless Ratio Control makes it easy to select light emission ratios for up to three separate flash units*. This allows quick creation of sophisticated multi-point lighting effects without the need for complex professional equipment. Ideal for everyday shooting and more serious applications, its dust- and moisture-resistant design makes the HVL-F43AM ideal for demanding assignments, indoors or outside.

Flash power levels are switchable in 22 increments, from 1/1 through to 1/128 level in 1/3 steps. High output power is complemented by a quick 2.9 second (approx.) recycling time. Despite the flash’s extensive functions, operation is refreshingly clear and simple via the high-quality LCD screen and direction buttons.

VCT-55LH bracket
The VCT-55LH is a versatile mounting bracket that offers space for mounting additional ISO cold shoe accessories. A useful add-on for all A-mount cameras by Sony, the bracket can also be used with E-mount cameras such as the NEX-5, NEX-3 and the Handycam® NEX-VG10E HD camcorder.
Other accessories – like a shotgun microphone – can be securely mounted while the camera’s main shoe is occupied. The VCT-55LH is ideal for use with the CLM-V55 clip-on LCD monitor that offers a clear, high-resolution view of images during video and still shooting.

Soft Carrying Case LCS-AMB
The LCS-AMB carry case protects your A-mount camera and attached standard zoom lens while you’re travelling. A special suspended partition cradles the camera securely while allowing quick access. Finished in durable black polyester material, the case can be slung over a shoulder using the supplied strap, carried by the grab handle or attached to a belt. It also features handy pockets with space for up to two extra batteries, spare memory card and lens cap. (NB: Not compatible with DSLR-A900/A850).

Lens Hood ALC-SH111
Compatible with DT 35mm F1.8 SAM and 85mm F2.8 SAM lenses, this round-profile hood shades from direct sunlight to prevent glare and lens flare.
See all accessories by Sony for the α camera system here.

The new HVL-F43AM external flash, VCT-55LH bracket, LCS-AMB soft carrying case and ALC-SH111 lens hood for α cameras by Sony are available from Spring 2011.

Main specification for external flash HVL-F43AM

HVL-F43AM external flash

VCT-55LH Bracket

TFC Make Christopher Smile at Focus!

On the Flash Centre’s demonstration stand at Focus, Lighting Guide DVD’s were being given away in exchange for a donation to Charity.

The Charity selected was Christopher’s Smile which funds research into childhood cancer treatments through the Institute of Cancer Research.

Chris Burfoot, TFC’s National Sales Manager said, “I am absolutely delighted and would like to personally thank all the visitors and staff that contributed to the fund helping us to raise over £1100! This was on top of the £300 raised at the recent SWPP convention.”

If you would like more information about the Charity, or make a donation, please go to: www.christopherssmile.org.uk

Profoto intros D1 monolights

Stockholm, 5 February 2009 – Ask any professional photographer why they use Profoto strobes and the answers are identical: consistency, consistency and more consistency. And, oh yes, Profoto´s are the most durable and trouble free units on the market. So it’s not surprising that the company’s new D1 line of digital compact electronic flashes are the same. What makes them so consistent is the microprocessor controlled, dual mode SMPS capacitor charging system. Consistency is important for two reasons: precise exposure from flash to flash and precise colour temperature. These are important qualities for portrait and studio photographers who want an easy-to-pack, rugged, monolight design. The new Profoto D1 monolight system, available in 250, 500 or 1000 Ws versions, can be adjusted from full to 1/64th power in 1/10th stop intervals. This gives you a range of seven f/stops in precise, repeatable and consistent output.
The D1’s have other important qualities: quick recycling time (0.2–0.95 s), short flash duration (1/1000th– 1/2600th s), compact size (300x130 mm) and weight designed for portability (2.4 kg); this for the 500 Ws version. The head has the same size as other Profoto strobes, so the full line of light modifiers, such as beauty dishes, snoots or grids, can be used. There is a built-in fan cooling system, an audible affirmation (that can be turned off) and a photocell for triggering.
The D1’s come with a 300 W quartz-halogen proportional modeling light, which together with the flash tube are covered by a strong protective glass. The unit can be used with any worldwide voltage, from 90–130 and 200–240 V without having to change the modeling light. They are also available with the optional Profoto Air System, allowing remote triggering and control of output from as far as 300 m away. You can also use a PC or MAC to control lights in a multi-light setup.
For 40 years Profoto has set the standard in professional electronic flashes. The new D1 line is keeping with that reputation.

More information can be found here.

For stockists in the UK please contact:

Profoto Ltd
385 Centennial Avenue, Centennial Park
Elstree, Hertfordshire London
United Kingdom
WD6 3TJ
Phone +44(0)20 8905 1507
Fax +44(0)20 953 4247

Url www.profoto.com