Leica SF 58 Flash Unit For Leica-R, Leica-M, and Leica-S Systems
The Leica SF 58 is a shoe mount flash that revels in its versatility. For starters, the SF 58 is compatible with the TTL metering systems in select Leica-R SLR cameras, Leica-M rangefinders, and the Leica-S medium format digital cameras.
Furthermore, this flash's performance range extends to its light output as well. The head both bounces and swivels with a powerful guide number of 58. An automatic/manual zoom head that goes from 24-105mm with the option to use a diffuser that spreads the light to accompany lenses as wide as 16mm with an accessory diffuser (14489 - not included) and 18mm with the built-in one.
The most intriguing ability the SF 58 possesses is two separate light outputs that can be mixed and matched for illuminating effects. The main reflector has 25 selectable output levels and the secondary one has 3. Preset profiles include a mode for standard and one for soft light.
- Dual Reflectors
- While the main reflector is responsible for the indirect flash, the secondary reflector can be used to lighten up the darks and generate brilliant results. The extra light can be adjusted in three steps and adapted to the subject.
- Rear Backlit LCD
- Thanks to a spacious, backlit LCD and a well-structured menu, the Leica SF 58 is very easy to operate. All flash functions are effortlessly adjusted using only four keys. Depending on the camera type and mode, the Leica SF 58 will automatically register the focal length, aperture and ISO and display the information on its screen, simultaneously calculating the maximum range at maximum flash power. Successful exposures are optionally confirmed with a beep.
- USB Link
- The LEICA SF 58 sports an integrated USB port for firmware updating, making this flash an investment with a bright future.
| Type | Shoe mount |
| Guide No. | 58 (rated at ISO 100) |
| Angle of Coverage | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Vari-Power | Yes: 1/1 - 1/256 power |
| TTL Dedication | Yes |
| Bounce Head | Yes: -7°/+90° |
| Swivel Head | Yes: -180°/+120° |
| Zoom Head | Yes: 24-105mm (in 35mm/full frame format) |
| Off Camera Terminal | USB (for firmware updates only) |
| Recycle Time | 5 seconds at full power |
| Power Source | 4x AA NiMH, Alkaline, Lithium |
| Dimensions | 2.8 x 5.8 x 3.9" (71 x 148 x 99mm) |
| Weight | 12.5oz (355g) without batteries |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 12 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Good power output (10)
- Easy to use (8)
- Consistent output (7)
- Versatile (7)
- Fast recycling (6)
Cons
- Heavy (3)
- Heavy / bulky (3)
Best Uses
- Fill flash (10)
- Portraits (7)
- General purpose (6)
- Night photography (5)
- Photojournalism (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Semi-pro photographer (4), Photo enthusiast (3), Pro photographer (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (11)
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 12 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-12
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easy To Use
- Powerful Output
Cons
- Expensive
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
- Weddings
Comments about SF 58 Flash Unit For Leica-R, Leica-M, and Leica-S Systems:
This is a high-dollar flash but so is an M8 or M9 and if you want truly professional results this is the way to get it. Plenty of power along with the pretty light of a Metz flash to boot. This flash works great with the Nikon SC-28 off-camera flash cord as well. The smaller SF 24 is an okay unit but not in the same league with this unit. Shooting TTL with the ability to use exposure compensation on the flash makes for an easy way to dial in the exposure. If you have an M8 or M9 this flash is a necessary accessory.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- Portraits
Comments about SF 58 Flash Unit For Leica-R, Leica-M, and Leica-S Systems:
Was always told that Leica M8 was not a camera that you use a flash for. Not true! Indoor photos are amazing using the SF 58. Very easy to use and the size (while not small) is a non-issue for me. This, like most Leica products is awesome! I highly recommend this flash.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
- Cost
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about SF 58 Flash Unit For Leica-R, Leica-M, and Leica-S Systems:
I bought this for use on those rare occasions when available light just won't work with my M9.
It hasn't been used much and probably won't be in the future, but it was pretty easy to figure out. It's comforting to know that when I actually need it, I won't need to go to the manual for a refresher course.
It'll most likely be used indoors and bounced for TTL fill. An upcoming Halloween party will put it to the test and I'm totally confident inn taking this as my only auxiliary light source.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
Cons
- Bulky
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
Comments about SF 58 Flash Unit For Leica-R, Leica-M, and Leica-S Systems:
i haven't had the chance to use it too much but so far, for indoor shooting it has performed well.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Portraits
Comments about SF 58 Flash Unit For Leica-R, Leica-M, and Leica-S Systems:
Photography has been my hobby for the last 30 years plus. First a SLR fanatic, now cannot let go of my Leicas. First bought the SF240 which is light and compact for travel but the SF58 is something else. Portraits, midrange flash pictures turn just Great! It synchronizes seamlessly with my Msystem and X1!
Flash pictures turn perfect.
FULLY RECOMMENDED!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
Comments about SF 58 Flash Unit For Leica-R, Leica-M, and Leica-S Systems:
This is a powerful unit and can be used on camera or off camra by the siimple use of a Canon flash cord 28. I also like the secondary flash which can be fired in 1/4, 1/2, full, and off positions. If you are using the main flash as bounce flash off a wall or ceiling and the secondary flash pointed at center of focus, you can add two angles of light on the subject. Instructions are fairly clear and flash may be used with previous M Leicas. I plan to use the unit for mainly fill flash.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
Comments about SF 58 Flash Unit For Leica-R, Leica-M, and Leica-S Systems:
I purchased for a new M9 after reading reviews of the smaller SF24D. So far, despite being a little large and a little heavy, it has performed admirably. I'm glad I made the decision.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- Portraits
Comments about SF 58 Flash Unit For Leica-R, Leica-M, and Leica-S Systems:
A great addition for indoor photography. The programming features of this flash are very helpful
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Portraits
Comments about SF 58 Flash Unit For Leica-R, Leica-M, and Leica-S Systems:
my photos produced with the leica m system are now at a new level thanks to this flash. bounce flash and direct lighting all from same flash unit makes photos "pop".
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Bounced Flash
- Fill Flash
Comments about SF 58 Flash Unit For Leica-R, Leica-M, and Leica-S Systems:
Works well with M8/M9 TTL. Best use IMO is bounced with secondary flash at 1/4 power.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Ability to bounce
- Consistent Output
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful
- Powerful Output
Cons
- Bulky
Best Uses
- General Use
- Night Photography
Comments about SF 58 Flash Unit For Leica-R, Leica-M, and Leica-S Systems:
This is a very powerful flash. Not usually one who uses flash, I purchased this to use on my M9 for those instances in which a flash can enhance a picture. I am having to learn how to "tame" it so that the shots are not overexposed. Overall though, I am confident that once I learn how to properly use it, it will do everything I am hoping.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
- Bulky
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about SF 58 Flash Unit For Leica-R, Leica-M, and Leica-S Systems:
The flash is unit is used on a M8.2, mostly for fill flash applications. It is a bit bulky for that camera, but due to its same roots like my Metz MZ58 units for Nikon I wanted to have the same handling. Another benefit is the second reflector unit which gives a nice touch when the main reflector is tilted for bounced lighting. The SF58 is very well crafted and comes in a nice leather pouch plus a detachable foot for slave flash applications.
Displaying reviews 1-12
Batteries & Power
- Price: $1.50
- Price: $13.99
Flash Diffusers
- Price: $9.95
Reflectors
- Price: $39.95
Brackets
- Price: $34.98
Flash Pouch
- Price: $24.99
Flash Accessories
- Price: $19.95
What's in the Box
- Case
- Mounting Base
- 4 x AA Batteries
- 2-Year Warranty
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