What is the Best Flash For Macro Photography?
Are you on the hunt for the perfect flash to elevate your macro photography skills?
Or Do you find yourself struggling to capture the intricate details of your subjects because of poor lighting?
Search no further, because I have everything covered!
I realize the importance of lighting in macro photography and have researched and tested the top 5 flash options that will take your macro photography to the next level.
So, if you want to enhance your macro photography skills and reveal the hidden beauty in every shot, read on and discover the best flash options for your needs.
List Of Top 5 Best Flash For Macro Photography For Your Choice
- Canon Macro Twin LiteCamera Flash
- Godox Macro Flash Off-Camera TTL Flash
- YONGNUO Macro Ring Flash
- MEKE Macro Ring Flash
- Digital Nc 48 Macro LED Ring Light flash
I did the research and after taking expert and professional help and advice, I prepared the list of the top 5 flash options for you.
1. Canon Macro Twin LiteCamera Flash
Specifications
- Guide Number: 85.3′ at ISO 100
- Coverage: 50mm
- Flash Duration: 1/1200 to 1/20000 second
- Recycle Time: Approx. 0.1 – 5.5 seconds
- Modes: TTL, Manual
- Wireless Communication Channels: 4 Channels
- Wireless Groups: 3 Groups
- Power Source: 4 x AA Batteries
- Weight: 500 g
Advantages
- With a guide number of 85.3′, it provides high-quality lighting for macro photography.
- The wireless communication system has four channels and three groups
- Its flash duration ranges from 1/1200 to 1/20000 seconds
- a diffuser and color filter set is included.
- It can be used as a master or slave unit with other Canon flashes that are compatible.
Limitations
- Priced higher than some other macro flashes on the market.
- In certain shooting scenarios, it can be large and difficult to operate.
- Battery life may be less than intended, particularly while operating at full power.
Description
The Canon Macro Twin Lite MT-26EX-RT Camera Flash is a powerful and versatile flash designed specifically for macro photography.
It has a guide number of 85.3′, a wireless communication system with 4 channels and 3 groups, and a flash duration of 1/1200 to 1/20000 seconds.
It also comes with a diffuser and color filter set for more creative lighting options.
Overall, the MT-26EX-RT is an excellent choice for macro photographers who demand high-quality lighting and versatility in their gear.
Buy It Now: Canon Macro Twin Lite
2. Godox Macro Flash Off-Camera TTL Flash
Specifications
- Guide Number: 52′ at ISO 100
- Coverage: 80mm
- Flash Duration: 1/200 to 1/20000 second
- Recycle Time: Approx. 2.8 seconds
- Modes: TTL, Manual
- Wireless Communication Channels: 16 Channels
- Wireless Groups: 3 Groups
- Power Source: 2 x AA Batteries
- Weight: 240 g
Advantages
- With a guide number of 52′, it provides high-quality lighting for macro photography.
- It has a wireless communication system with 16 channels and 3 groups
- Its flash duration ranges from 1/200 to 1/20000 seconds
- a diffuser and color filter set is provided.
- When compared to other macro flashes on the market, the pricing is reasonable.
Limitations
- Coverage is limited to 80mm (full frame), which may be insufficient for some macro shooting scenarios.
- The recycle period is longer than that of some other macro flashes, which may affect shooting speed.
- Battery life may be less than intended, particularly while operating at full power.
Description
The Godox MF12 MF12-K2 Macro Flash Off-Camera TTL Flash is a compact and affordable option for macro photography.
It has a guide number of 52′ and a flash duration of 1/200 to 1/20000 seconds. It also comes with a diffuser and color filter set for more creative lighting options.
However, it does have some limitations such as limited coverage, slower recycle time, and shorter battery life.
Overall, the MF12 MF12-K2 is a great option for those looking for an affordable and reliable macro flash for their photography needs.
Buy It Now: Godox MF
3. YONGNUO YN14EX II Macro Ring Flash
Specifications
- Guide Number: 45.9′ at ISO 100
- Coverage: 80mm (Full Frame)
- Flash Duration: 1/800 to 1/20000 second
- Recycle Time: Approx. 3 seconds
- Modes: TTL, Manual
- Wireless Communication Channels: 4 Channels
- Wireless Groups: 3 Groups (A, B, C)
- Power Source: 4 x AA Batteries
- Weight: 15.17 oz / 430 g
Advantages
- With a guide number of 45.9′, it provides high-quality lighting for macro photography.
- The wireless communication system has four channels and three groups, making it simple to operate many flashes.
- For extra creative lighting options, a diffuser and color filter set are included.\
- Enables both TTL and manual modes for better shooting flexibility.
- It’s simple to attach to the lens and alter the flash direction.
- When compared to other macro flashes on the market, the pricing is reasonable.
Limitations
- Coverage is limited to 80mm (full frame), which may be insufficient for some macro shooting scenarios.
- The recycle period is longer than that of some other macro flashes, which may affect shooting speed.
- Because the wireless communication system has fewer channels than some other macro flashes, the range of control may be limited.
- Battery life may be less than intended, particularly while operating at full power.
Description
The YONGNUO YN14EX II Macro Ring Flash is a versatile and affordable option for macro photography.
It has a guide number of 45.9′, a wireless communication system with 4 channels and 3 groups, and a diffuser and color filter set.
It also allows for both TTL and manual modes and can be easily mounted on the lens and adjusted to direct the flash in different directions.
However, it does have some limitations, such as limited coverage, slower recycle time, fewer channels, and shorter battery life.
Overall, the YN14EX II is a great option for those looking for an affordable and versatile macro flash for their photography needs.
Buy It Now: YONGNUO II Macro Ring Flash
4. MEKE MK-14EXT-N I-TTL Macro Ring Flash
Specifications
- Guide Number: 46.9′ at ISO 100
- Coverage: 80mm (Full Frame)
- Flash Duration: 1/200 to 1/20000 second
- Recycle Time: Approx. 4 seconds
- Modes: TTL, Manual, Multi
- Wireless Communication Channels: 4 Channels
- Wireless Groups: 3 Groups (A, B, C)
- Power Source: 4 x AA Batteries
- Weight: 9.6 oz / 272 g
Advantages
- With a guide number of 46.9′, it provides high-quality lighting for macro photography.
- The wireless communication system has four channels and three groups, making it simple to operate many flashes.
- Its flash duration ranges from 1/200 to 1/20000 seconds, making it ideal for freezing action.
- TTL and manual modes are supported, as well as a multi-flash mode for creative lighting possibilities.
- It’s simple to attach to the lens and alter the flash direction.
- Its lightweight and small form makes it convenient to transport for outdoor shooting.
Limitations
- Coverage is limited to 80mm (full frame), which may be insufficient for some macro shooting scenarios.
- The recycle period is longer than that of some other macro flashes, which may affect shooting speed.
- Because the wireless communication system has fewer channels than some other macro flashes, the range of control may be limited.
- Battery life may be less than intended, particularly while operating at full power.
- The construction quality is not as strong as that of some of the other macro flashes on the market.
Description
The MEKE MK-14EXT-N I-TTL Macro Ring Flash is a lightweight and compact option for macro photography.
It has a guide number of 46.9′, a wireless communication system with 4 channels and 3 groups, and a flash duration of 1/200 to 1/20000 seconds.
It also allows for both TTL and manual modes, as well as a multi-flash mode.
Overall, the MEKE MK-14EXT-N is a great option for those looking for a lightweight and compact macro flash for their photography needs.
Buy It Now: MEKE MK Ring Flash
5. Digital Nc 48 Macro LED Ring Light
Specifications
- LED Count: 48
- Color Temperature: 5500K
- Luminance: 500 Lumens
- Flash Duration: 1/100 – 1/20000 sec
- Modes: Full, Left, Right, and Flash
- Power Source: 4 x AA batteries or DC power supply
- Weight: 11 oz / 312 g
Advantages
- It has 48 LED bulbs with a color temperature of 5500K, which provide brilliant, natural-looking light for macro photography.
- The LED ring light can be employed independently of the flash mode to provide continuous lighting for non-flash photography.
- The flash duration of 1/100 – 1/20000 sec enables sharp photos and motion freeze.
- The LCDs information regarding settings and battery life is in an easy-to-read format.
- It comes with several adapters for mounting onto various lenses.
- It may be powered by 4 AA batteries or a DC power supply, making it ideal for outdoor photography.
Limitations
- The LED light may not be as powerful as some other macro flashes, limiting its range and coverage.
- The flash duration may not be long enough for some macro photography situations.
- The LCD may be small and hard to read in certain lighting conditions.
- The build quality is not as robust as some other macro flashes on the market.
- The power source may not last as long as expected, especially when using full power.
Description
The Digital Nc 48 Macro LED Ring Light & Ring Flash with LCD Display is a versatile and lightweight option for macro photography.
It has 48 LED bulbs and a color temperature of 5500K, and a flash duration of 1/100 – 1/20000 sec.
However, the LED light may not be as powerful as other macro flashes, the flash duration may not be long enough, the LCD may be small and hard to read, and the power source may not last as long as expected.
It is a better option for macro photography as said by many users.
Buy It Now: Digital Nc 48 Ring Flash
Conclusion
Macro photography requires precise and specialized equipment to capture the intricate details of small subjects.
Flash is a crucial tool in macro photography because it allows for controlled lighting and sharp images.
Ultimately, the best flash for macro photography depends on your specific needs and preferences.
By carefully considering the specifications, advantages, and limitations of each flash, photographers can make an informed decision and find the perfect tool to bring their macro photography to the next level.
Related:
FAQs
What is macro photography?
Macro photography is a type of close-up photography that captures the small details of a subject, typically a living organism or object, at a 1:1 or greater magnification ratio.
Why is flash important for macro photography?
Flash is important for macro photography because it allows for controlled lighting of the subject, which can be crucial when capturing small details. Additionally, flash can help freeze motion and reduce blur in low-light conditions.
What features should I look for in a flash for macro photography?
When looking for a flash for macro photography, some important features to consider include power output, flash duration, recycling time, TTL compatibility, and the ability to adjust the direction and intensity of the light.
Can I use a regular camera flash for macro photography?
Yes, you can use a regular camera flash for macro photography, but you may need to use it off-camera or modify it with diffusers or reflectors to achieve the desired lighting effects.
What are some advantages and limitations of using a ring flash for macro photography?
One advantage of using a ring flash for macro photography is that it provides even lighting around the subject, which can help reduce harsh shadows and create a more uniform illumination. However, one limitation of using a ring flash is that it can create a flat, two-dimensional effect and may not be suitable for all types of macro subjects.
Are there any alternatives to using Flash for macro photography?
Yes, there are alternatives to using flash for macro photography, such as natural light, reflectors, and lightboxes. However, these options may not provide the same level of control and consistency as using a flash.