R6.2 flash help

You can use the SF20, but it is best for fill flash and closer sujbects. It does not offer bounce capability. A good, all around unit for keeping things simple and small. If you go that route, I suggest the SFILL diffuser from Lutz.

However, if you are going to do any serious flash work you should look into one of the Metz units.

For TTL you will need a Metz dedicated module along with whatever Metz flash unit you select. The module for the R6.2 is SCA 3502.

The set up I pictured here will deliver professional level on-camera lighting. In addition to the flash and SCA 3502 and a Metz 54MZ-3 flash, it uses the off camera extention cord SCA 3008A m, which allows you to use a flip bracket that keeps the flash unit centered above the lens in either the horizonal or vertical position. The white thing on the end of the flash is a diffuser from StoFen that softens and wraps the light around a subject.

This is about as sophsticated and automatic as you can get without getting really big with a Quantum type strobe unit. The 54MZ-3 may be to large for your need, but Metz makes other smaller (but less powerful) units. Hope this helps.

Sorry, I forgot to resize before sending. Here it is.

Mike, Since this is your first jump in flash, why don't you get something a little less pricey, like a Vivitar 283. (about $70.--) It's been around forever, totally reliable, and a system built around it, if you want it. Happy Snaps,

The SF-20 will not work as a TTL flash on the R6.2. I like my SF-20s but I would never pay that much for just a low powered flash with three automatic ranges. There are much cheaper flashes that will give better performance.

There's only two reasons for a flash other than a Vivitar 283. Either you want an itty bitty thing that fits in your pocket, and you're not worried about lack of output, or you need a heavy duty powerful unit with seperate battery pack. And the 283 will take an external pack.

As John points out the SF20 is not TTL-capable with the R6.2 (one of the few times when Leica has not provided as much or better backward compatibility compared to the Japanese brands). My vote for an R6.2 flash would be any SCA-300 type Metz flash of which there are tons on the market. If you want a new one, get the 32Z2 as there is no dedication for a motorized zoom with the 6.2 anyway. A bonus, the 32Z2 can take a 3000-series module so if you ever get an M6TTL or M7 or R8/9 you can just buy a new module. SCA-3000 and 3002 series flashes all take 300-series modules but not the reverse.

There's only two reasons for a flash other than a Vivitar 283.

I'll add a third reason - if you want better build quality and even better reliability, and are sick of the weak foot breaking off all the time. I use a set of Metz 32 Z-1's.

I'd vote for the Metz 32Z2. I have had a Metz 32CT7 with SCA 351 adapter for years. It's been reliable and fully functional with my R6 and R7.

Thanks for all the advice. I have a few more questions.

It looks like the SF-20 isn't the best, too bad since its so small. Is the Vivitar 283 fully compatable, auto, TTL etc? What about the Metz 32Z1 or 2 with SCA adapter?

Like I said I'm new to using a flash and want one that is fully compatable, small, and most importantly simple to use for indoor photography.

Mike