Basic question relating flash sync cord

Hi, i've got an external flash (sunpak 383) with my digital camera (sony
f717). Would like to try experimenting with using it off-camera, as in
holding the flash in one hand and taking shots with the other.

Searching through the net, looks like i need to get a sync cord of some
description. Does anyone know if flash sync cords are pretty much
standard? Just wish to more ideas before going to the shops. The flash
has a connection marked "sync.", but there's no equivalent on the camera
itself.

Regards,
David.

 

You may have to fire the Sunpak with a slave by using the flash on
camera. Block off / reflect the direct flash so it does not hit the
subject and the flash is caputure by the slave unit to trigger the Sunpak.

 

thanks Rob i'll look into that.

 

found a nice read about slaves:
http://www.betterphoto.com/forms/QnAdetail.asp?threadID=10116

 

I also have the 717 and a 383.
I purchased a hotshoe with a pc connector. the cable supplied with your
383 can be fired off camera with this.
its about 30$aud also try getting a flash grip to use you flash off
camera

 

I had to buy a hot shoe adapter for my last camera. That allowed me to plug
in the flash sync cord and have the camera trigger my flash just as if it
was sitting on top of the camera itself.

J

 

Thanks Justin, it looks like i will have to go this route as well.

Found link
http://www.sonycams.com/forum/archive/index.php/t-2569.html

A radio controlled slave setup would have been very attractive, if it
were not for the huge size of the receiver (as large as the flash
itself). Still hopeful to find one where the receiver is tiny.

Regards,
David.

 

Thanks for that the flash grip idea is great!

 

First make sure that the camera can withstand the voltage from the flash.
Many modern cameras are only specified to switch around 6 volts, but many
older flashes have several hundred volts on their flash terminals.

 

Now would you like to buy one of these?

 

hi Rob did you mean to post a link or something? Or you're just
laughing at me

 

Thanks Bruce. Found link
http://www.botzilla.com/photo/strobeVolts.html

 

I have a flash grip to sell .

 

oh what sort is it? I must say i'm still researching at this stage.
Dreaming about a flash grip that will double as a light stand (but easy
to carry like a monopod) and allow a small umbrella attachment. So i
could hold it up higher and have further reach for small group shots.

 

You need a manfroto Magic arm that should do the job. Look up Manfroto
site - arm has ball joint at both ends and folds in the middle. about
500mm in length. Want to buy one of those as well - i have one for sale.

 

rob, can you give me some details about the flash grip and magic arm
you're selling? would they work for a 550ex and an off shoe cord with
a 10d? how much are you looking for?
email me if you want: dmunwin at utas dot edu dot au
cheers mate
dave

 

Thanks heaps for that i'll look it up in the morning - too tired
tonight. My address is dlfoto at bigpond dot net .au

 

they look awfully expensive.... :/