The Dot Line RPS Digital Flash Bracket Kit includes all the necessary components for using a shoe mount flash raised above the lens, off-camera. Included is the required off-camera shoe cord that maintains full TTL flash control (including i-TTL), even with the latest digital cameras, and an electronic cable release that allows triggering the shutter directly from the bracket.
The bracket features a bounce control for the flash. This is especially useful for close up work. It allows you to direct the flash downward as well as upward. When used in conjunction with the extendable arm, this bracket gives you more control under more situations.
Flash brackets are designed to increase the distance between the flash head and the lens in order to minimize the occurrence of redeye and to also reduce flash-shadows behind the subject. The rotating camera platform moves to keep the flash centered over the lens both for horizontal and vertical compositions.
Compatible with the Nikon D90 and D5000 cameras.
| Lens-to-Flash Distance | 6-18" (15-46cm) [adjustable] |
| Dimensions | 10.5 x 13.75" (26.7 x 34.9cm) |
| Weight | 2.4 lbs (1.1kg) |
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Reviewed by 5 customers
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Comments about RPS Lighting RPS Digital Flash Bracket Kit:
This is my second RPS Flash Bracket. My first was for a Nikon D80 that I traded in a few months ago for a Nikon D7000. I purchased this one for my D7000. These are my first impressions after one photo shoot for a family portrait.
This flash bracket feels considerably heavier and more solid than the one I had for the D80. Mine is sturdy and does not wobble but I always have a Leatherman in my photo bag and I made sure everything was tightened down when I unpacked it. The shutter release requires a practiced touch to find the half stop position for focus and exposure. However, I often shoot with my remote control when shooting portraits as I find I can get the subjects to relax and not give me an artificial smile or pose if I move away from the large camera contraption and interact with them naturally while I shoot.
I agree with previous comments that this is really heavy so you should be prepared to use a heavy-duty tripod with it, or develop some heavy-duty arm muscles. It does not come with instructions which is a serious draw-back. I knew how to use it because of the one I had previously on my D-80 but for what you pay for it I would think that RPS could include some instructions. There may be some user reviews on YouTube, I haven't checked. The little carrying bag that comes with it is relatively useless. It barely fits in the bag and the bag offers no protection. When I am going out to do a photo shoot for portraits the entire unit, camera and flash attached to the flash bracket, fits inside a Pelican 1600 case - with plick and pluck foam - for good protection.
I have not used other brands of flash brackets so I cannot offer a comparison to other brands. I only know that I have been very happy with the two RPS flash brackets I have had. This one performed flawlessly and did everything I needed it to do. It will tilt and swing and adjust into just about any position. It feels solid enough for my intended use but I baby my equipment anyway, I do not bang it around.
The flash arm extends to 14 inches placing my SB-600 flash 22 inches above the camera lens. I have not used it for macro photography but I did swing the arm down and yes, it could be used for close-up macro photography also. This is something I will play with when I have time.
All-in-all I would recommend this flash bracket to users who have some mechanical aptitude and can figure out how to use it without instructions. In my opinion the positives are that it is heavy and solid and will adjust into many positions. The negatives are that there are no instructions, a useless carrying case, requires a delicate touch for the shutter half-stop, and has a finicky swing-arm for vertical shooting.
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Comments about RPS Lighting RPS Digital Flash Bracket Kit:
The least expensive Flash Bracket with all the features, but not high quality. For example, the bracket holding the flash cord (from the camera) to the top of the bracket has four screws, the two in front sticking out. The result is a wobbly and insecure flash mounting. Similarly the swing arm that holds the camera in vertical position does not secure the camera well. Great concept, but flawed execution.
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Comments about RPS Lighting RPS Digital Flash Bracket Kit:
This apparatus works well at helping me appropriately position the flash for portraits. I like the fact that it ships with a carrying case for the flash bracket.
The biggest lack would be instruction on how to properly assemble/disassemble the bracket (specifically, how the upper bar is held in place by a screw). I would like the carrying case to be larger, mine barely fits in it.
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Comments about RPS Lighting RPS Digital Flash Bracket Kit:
I just received my bracket and love it. It does make the camera really heavy to hold and it does require a sturdy tri-pod, but all in all-it is a great buy.
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Comments about RPS Lighting RPS Digital Flash Bracket Kit:
Purchased the RPS Digital Flash Bracket Kit to reduce/eliminate red-eye, it works great. I especially like the thumb shutter release button.
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