This Pentax AF160FC Ring Flash is a superb tool for macro photographers seeking clean and controlled light for a variety of close-up subjects.
Ringlights have a control box that sit atop the camera and a circular panel that fits on a lens like a hood. The controller allows for strength adjustment and P-TTL signals from the camera to be applied to the output of the flash.
Additionally, a modeling light helps preview the effect of the flash while simultaneously providing sufficient illumination for autofocus systems to operate.
| Guide No. | 52.8' at ISO 100 (16m at ISO 100) |
| Number of Flashes |
Lithium - approx. 7s interval = 250 full discharges Alkaline - approx. 7s interval = 150 full discharges NiMH - approx. 7s interval = 200 full discharges |
| Max Usable Diameter Size | 67mm |
| Modeling Light | Yes |
| Angle of Coverage | 60° from up/down/left/right (flash output ratio selectable from left, left center, center, right center, right) |
| Auto f/Stops | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Vari-Power | Yes |
| TTL Dedication | Yes |
| Recycle Time | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Power Source | 4 AA batteries |
| Dimensions |
Ring Flash - 4.4 x 4.4 x 1.2" (11 x 11 x 3cm) Controller - 2.7 x 3.3 x 4.5" (7 x 8 x 11cm) |
| Weight | 14.3oz (405g)(without batteries) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 9 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-9
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AF160FC Auto Macro Ring Flash (Guide No. 53) For Pentax P-TTL:
Somewhat bulky, with stiff cable and box of adapters, but worth it for the even lighting and simple controls. Like others, I played with LEDs and other lights, but finally got this flash to do better macro photography of small organisms.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AF160FC Auto Macro Ring Flash (Guide No. 53) For Pentax P-TTL:
I bought this flash just recently. I have not taken 'real' macro photos yet, because it is still early April here in Montreal and there are no flowers or insects yet. However, I did a few tests at home and I can say that this is a very effective tool.
I like the separate semi-circular elements with 5-position switch providing full light on both segments , 3:1 or 1:3 ratio, and full:0 or 0:full combinations. You can also rotate the hole light ring, and position the 2 elements vertically, horizontally, or at an angle of your choice.
The light is soft and works very nicely. I like the LED modeling light, it helps you preview the lighting at your choice. It also has full and +/-flash exposure compensation. The guide number is 16, so you don't get washed-out pictures.
The texture and detail you get are very nice. I tried it with a 100mm macro lens and the results are excellent.
I can't wait to go after the bugs. I hope they are not photo shy...
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AF160FC Auto Macro Ring Flash (Guide No. 53) For Pentax P-TTL:
Price was only reason for 4 star instead of 5. Very nice quality flash kit with storage. Great addition to my Pentax 100mm Macro lens. Would have liked to have seen a removable cord between the light and base and the option to have a coiled cord instead.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AF160FC Auto Macro Ring Flash (Guide No. 53) For Pentax P-TTL:
I bought this to supplement my DFA 100mm f/2.8 macro lens - great partnership. The kit comes in a nice looking container with protective foam cutouts for all parts. A set of ring adapters provides compatibility with a range of lens sizes. The flash pairs perfectly with my K-5's P-TTL flash system, and provides effortless shadowless flash results. Simple button controls vary the flash output on either side, allowing varied strength directional flash if you wish to show more texture or shadow. Exposure is also quickly and easily varied with the camera's flash output controls. The modeling light control is useful for focusing in low light, and preview. Highly recommended.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AF160FC Auto Macro Ring Flash (Guide No. 53) For Pentax P-TTL:
This product is typical Pentax build quality. Solid. Opens up a whole new way of recording images. Macro is only one of the uses.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AF160FC Auto Macro Ring Flash (Guide No. 53) For Pentax P-TTL:
this light can give superb shadowless macro shots as well as left or right dominance of flash. It works well with portrait work as well.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AF160FC Auto Macro Ring Flash (Guide No. 53) For Pentax P-TTL:
Although a bit pricey, upon opening the box it was clear (looking at the build quality) that it was up to the job. I'm no longer dependent on the sun to get the aperture closed down for that close up shot that requires good D.O.F.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AF160FC Auto Macro Ring Flash (Guide No. 53) For Pentax P-TTL:
I tried all sorts of cheaper solutions since I'm just starting out with macro/close-up photography. None were satisfactory. I finally broke down and spent the many $$ for this flash, and I'm not sorry. It's smaller and lighter than the Sigma option, and it has sturdy metal ring adapters that actually stay on the lens while shooting at a downward angle.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AF160FC Auto Macro Ring Flash (Guide No. 53) For Pentax P-TTL:
At the moment I use it for macro photography especially with a moving subject. Example: Butterflies
It works great, and I didn't experience any issues with this piece of equipment.
Displaying reviews 1-9