New flexible cobra flash at Sony

Sony just announced a long list of accessories for the Alpha SLR and SLT series. The most interesting one is certainly the new cobra external flash (fully orientable), HVL-F43AM.

Sony HVL-F43AM

Sony HVL-F43AM (flash)

Main features:

  • Guide Number: 43 (ISO 100)
  • Bounce Flash: Click positions: up (30° / 45° / 60° / 75° / 90° / 120° / 150°); down (8°); right (30° / 45° / 60° / 90°); left (30° / 45° / 60° / 90°)
  • Recycling time (based on Sony measurement): Approx. 2.9 seconds (with alkaline battery)
  • Battery performance (based on Sony measurement): Approx. more than 200 flash cycles (with alkaline battery)
  • Power level switching: 22 levels: (1/1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32, 1/64, 1/128), 1/3 steps
  • Other features: Auto WB Adjustment with Color Temperature Info; Auto zoom control optimized for image sensor size; High-Speed Synchro; Modeling Lighting; Test Lighting; Multi Lighting. Supports camera’s Red-eye reduction feature. Built-in wide panel and bounce sheet. High quality LCD screen.

The HVL-F43AM flash will be available in early June 2011 at the price of 330€.

The other accessories will arrive on the distributors’ shelves as quickly as mid-May.

  • VCT-55LH: 52€
  • LCS-AMB: 50€
  • ALC-SH111: 20€

VCT-55LH

VCT-55LH

VCT-55LH

Sony LCS-AMB

Sony LCS-AMB

Sony LCS-AMB

Sony LCS-AMB

Press release – 13 April 2011

HVL-F43AM external flash with GN43, Quick Shift Bounce adjustment, wireless ratio control and dust/moisture resistant design
More new α system accessories: VCT-55LH bracket, LCS-AMB soft carrying case and ALC-SH111 lens hood

Sony HVL-F43AM

Sony HVL-F43AM (flash)

HVL-F43AM external flash

With a powerful output of GN43 (105mm ISO100 m), the compact yet versatile HVL-F43AM flash from Sony is optimised for superb results with all A-mount cameras.

As featured on the HVL-F58AM, the innovative Quick Shift Bounce system allows flash head position to be adjusted instantly when switching between horizontal and vertical compositions. This maintains consistent shadow positions regardless of camera orientation, allowing easy creation of natural-looking ‘bounce’ effects.

Smart flash functions open up even broader creative lightning possibilities. Wireless Ratio Control makes it easy to select light emission ratios for up to three separate flash units*. This allows quick creation of sophisticated multi-point lighting effects without the need for complex professional equipment.

Sony HVL-F43AM

Sony HVL-F43AM (flash)

Ideal for everyday shooting and more serious applications, its dust- and moisture-resistant design makes the HVL-F43AM ideal for demanding assignments, indoors or outside.

Flash power levels are switchable in 22 increments, from 1/1 through to 1/128 level in 1/3 steps. High output power is complemented by a quick 2.9 second (approx.) recycling time. Despite the flash’s extensive functions, operation is refreshingly clear and simple via the high-quality LCD screen and direction buttons.

See the HVL-F43AM external flash by Sony for the α camera system here: HVL-F43AM external flash

VCT-55LH bracket

The VCT-55LH is a versatile mounting bracket that offers space for mounting additional ISO cold shoe accessories. A useful add-on for all A-mount cameras by Sony, the bracket can also be used with E-mount cameras such as the NEX-5, NEX-3 and the Handycam® NEX-VG10E HD camcorder.

Other accessories – like a shotgun microphone – can be securely mounted while the camera’s main shoe is occupied. The VCT-55LH is ideal for use with the CLM-V55 clip-on LCD monitor that offers a clear, high-resolution view of images during video and still shooting.

Please find more information about the VCT-55LH bracket by Sony here: VCT-55LH bracket

Soft Carrying Case LCS-AMB

The LCS-AMB carry case protects your A-mount camera and attached standard zoom lens while you’re travelling. A special suspended partition cradles the camera securely while allowing quick access. Finished in durable black polyester material, the case can be slung over a shoulder using the supplied strap, carried by the grab handle or attached to a belt. It also features handy pockets with space for up to two extra batteries, spare memory card and lens cap. (NB: Not compatible with DSLR-A900/A850).

See the soft carrying case LCS-AMB by Sony for the α camera system here: Soft Carrying Case LCS-AMB

Lens Hood ALC-SH111

Compatible with DT 35mm F1.8 SAM and 85mm F2.8 SAM lenses, this round-profile hood shades from direct sunlight to prevent glare and lens flare.

The new HVL-F43AM external flash, VCT-55LH bracket, LCS-AMB soft carrying case and ALC-SH111 lens hood for α cameras by Sony are available from Spring 2011.

See all accessories by Sony for the α camera system at www.sony.co.uk/hub/dslr/accessories