Sto-Fen on AF360FGZ

[calsan]

I thought I'd share an example of using a Sto-Fen on my AF360FGZ flash and K10d.  For such a cheap accessory, I feel that it's made a big improvement to my photos, and made flash photography that little bit more predicable.  I hope you agree - there are very few shadows cast by the flash [some are visible around the lady in blue's sleeves and under her chin].  It almost appears like the photo is shot indoors with a fake sunset backdrop, in my humble opinion!    These days, I often pack the flash in preference to another lens, just because of the 'studio light' effect possible with the sto-fen.

AF360FGZ mounted direct to top of camera, set at 45 degrees with sto-fen on and flash set to slow speed sync mode.
Camera at 35mm, f8, ISO 500.

This is currently my standard 'recipe' for informal (happy snap) portraits, as it's the sharpest setting for my 17-70 zoom and ISO500 keeps the shutter speed up, whilst retaining the background colors.

[spyglass]

Hey Calsan,

I do not own the Sto-fen, but after seeing many decent results on this site from you and others, I will probably add one to my next order. I was leaning toward the Gary Fong (but it seems a bit expensive for some plastic, as well as a bit bulky). The Sto-fen could just sit on the end of the flash and not take up any space in my bag.


Thanks for the example,


Tim

[calsan]

It certainly doesn't waste any space in the bag and it's a real no-brainer to use.  Perfect!

[blackcloudbrew]

I'd ad a me too here. I've recently been using the Sto-Fen on my AF360FGZ as well and like the results.

Tim

[Mike Pearson]

Callum & Tim,

I use Stofen on AF360FGZ and AF540FGZ almost always with similar results. 

Mike

[spyglass]

Hey Gang,

I looked up the Sto Fen on the B&H Photo site and they listed one for the Pentax AF 360 FGZ  (manufacture part number #OM-PZ8) only $16. So I assume they must make a different unit for each and every make and model. How well do they fit on. It is a nice snap or snug slide on fit?

Spyglass


I see that we have another Tim on the site (things are looking up  )   - Welcome to the site Blackcloudbrew    (like the user name - is it a reference to storm watching or one wicked cup of coffee designed to chase the hang over away) 

[Mike Pearson]

Tim,

They are individually designed for each flash, although the same unit may fit several flashes. Good snug slide fit - no damage or marking to my flashes.

Check out their site at: http://www.stofen.com/

Over the years I have ordered 5 diffusers directly from Stofen - superb service. 

Mike

[spyglass]

Ok I am following  the great lead of Peter, Calsan & Mike.

I phoned Lens & Shutter to inquire about the Sto Fen (not a stock item, specialty order, $29 + shipping, 2 weeks delivery), I tried Londondrugs (they didn't  seem to know about the product).

Thanks to Mike's tip about the company selling direct on line........I just ordered the OM-PZ8 



Thanks again everyone for the advice and examples.

Spyglass

[blackcloudbrew]

Yes that is how I got mine online direct from Sto-Fen. They are in Santa Cruz, California, USA. Fast service etc. And I too was wondering how it fit on and was surprised to see that it just fits snug, just right.

Tim

[terrytootall]

Hello all.
When I bought my AF540 from B&H, I also bought the Sto-Fen MZ40 (saved on shipping costs). The MZ40 designed to fit Pentax AF540FGZ and Metz 40MZ 1i & 3i flashes. I sorta remember it was around US$16 (2007). It has a snug fit on the AF540. I like the results too.
Terrytootall

[msknight]

I use some of the cheap versions from China. On using them for a happy snap, I switch the camera to P mode, angle the flash up to first click and give it +1 ev to avoid the hot spot and lessen the catch light in the eyes. Works for me.

Started doing it after I saw a press photographer doing it.

I also chose the cheaper versions so I could stretch them a little; I have velcro either side of my flash head for mounting colour corection strips, so if I had too tight a fit it would mess with the velcro.

[spyglass]

Ok, I couldn't take it any longer........ I just have to know........ (how the Sto-Fen & Gary Fong perform).

I ordered a Sto-Fen earlier this month direct from the manufactures site (thanks for tip and the link Mike). It was shipped March 9th (still waiting for it). Today while I was talking to Beauphoto on the phone (Vancouver, B.C.), I asked if they carried Gary Fong products. As luck would have it (maybe good luck or maybe just plain bad luck depending on how you want to look at it). They had stock on the Gary Fong Lightsphere 2 (frosted / cloudy model). I remember hearing the words but do not remember them leaving my lips, "do you have one for the Pentax AF360FGZ Flash....yes..... tag it and bag it". A blink or two later I was putting my wallet back in my pocket, phone still wedged between my ear and shoulder. It was the last one they had in stock (is it just me or does that make any purchase just that much more enjoyable). Almost makes you giddy as you play the words one last time inside your head "you're in luck.... it appears it is the last one we have in stock". The unit was $44 CDN (plus tax & $7 shipping)

The Gary Fong will probably hit my door before the Sto-Fen does. I will pit them against each other in a, kill or be killed, head to head, no holds barred, outright bar room brawl, winner takes all, fight to the death, competition.

My guess is that each will get some punches in. I have a feeling that the Sto-Fen will win the outdoor battles, while the Gary Fong will fair well indoors. I will start a new thread and create a poll where members can view the tests (I mean fierce battles) and vote. My hope is that it will give others a chance to learn more about these products, start a discussion and exchange of ideas here on the site (feedback from non sales, real people), and hopefully be a bit of fun. I might even throw in 1 or 2 other challengers. 


Let the games begin 

[msknight]

Sounds great Spyglass; I look forward to reading the result of the bloodbath lightbath.

Spare them no quarter!