Flash unit (For FZ50)

[Paradox]

Let me make this clear first to avoid confusion: I'm not buying the dedicated thing. Really. It's just not worth it, as it can't be carried over to any other camera I might consider buying in the future.

So, that out the way, I'm looking to get an external flash for my FZ50. Realistically, my budget rests at around £150 (Taking into account that everything is more expensive over here, that probably equates to about $250 or something similar). Obviously I'm looking for one with complete manual controls (Since I won't be able to use TTL metering etc), and I also want a tilt head so I can bounce it off the ceiling. Other than that, no real requirements. Open to suggestions.

I'm completely new to the flash market; I've done a little research, but not much. So any advice on what I should look for etc is also appreciated. I've had a look around, and so far only one has sprung to light as meeting my requirements - anyone know anything about it/used it/have any thoughts on it?

Sunpak PZ40X (http://www.cameraworld.co.uk/ViewProdDetails.asp?prod_code=PON06L000010&prod_name=Sunpak%20PZ40X%20Flashgun)

It seems suitable to me, as it will use TTL on both Nikon and Canon, and I will likely expand into one of those makes later on. So after I fork out for an expensive DSLR, I can at least cope for a while before getting a proper dedicated one.

[genece]

Well I am not so sure about their claims......but the flash can be bought as either Nikon or Canon compatible......which should allow it to work on the FZ50 in manual mode......but the claim of it being i-TTL compatible with a Nikon is rather doubtful, as over in the Nikon forums the only non Nikon flash that is said to be fully compatible with the Nikon DSLRs is a Sigma and still even then, most are saying its not 100% compatible.........I personally do not know, I just wanted you to be aware it may not do as you wish.
And I do not know about it being Canon compatible either......perhaps ask on those forums.
But I see no reason that it would not work manually on the FZ50.
I saw no info on how long it takes to cycle.......for instance the Sunpak 383 will shoot a 3 shot burst.....will that flash? or perhaps thats not important to you?

[Paradox]

Thanks for the reply - Likelihood is that I'll go into Canon really, but I'm trying to keep an open mind.

Thanks for the information on the compatibility - it's not of terrific concern to me really, as if I branch out on a more expensive DSLR chances are I'll probably upgrade the flash soon after. It was just a bonus for the flash really. Also, recycling time isn't overly fast (I found some info on a different site, can't remember exact values, but still), but that isn't of importance - I don't intend to use it for that kind of photography. Besides, I doubt the FZ50's buffer could keep up with that kind of speed anyway. :p

Basically it's uses will be for bounce flashing off nearby objects to get some more light for some indoor photography. The on-board flash looks incredibly unnatural, so I'm looking for an external one to get some more evenly lit and natural looking shots.


Edit: I've had a bit of a look through some reviews, and people don't seem overly happy with the unit's performance. A couple of odd issues have come up which I'd rather avoid. So, it's back to the drawing board. Again, suggestions welcome.

[Paradox]

I took a look into the far reaches of the Panasonic forum, and uncovered a thread saying the Olympus FL-36 and FL-50 are completely compatible with the FZ50's TTL system. While I said I wouldn't look at dedicated, this (The 36) isn't much more expensive than the flashes I was looking at anyway...and it looks like a more robust unit. Anyone have experience with the 36, or even better, with it on an FZ50?

Edit: Correction, it's cheaper. I'm assuming by this and the guide numbers it has a fairly feeble amount of power? If so Olympus is out. I can't afford the budget leap to the 50 at this time. Oh flashes are so much fun... :rolleyes:

Edit again: If I'm understanding the guide numbers correctly, the 36 should have ample power for my needs. So It's back on the board.

[genece]

The guide # s are very similar, the oly rates in meters while Sunpak uses feet.
The Oly would be a good choice.....you may as well take advantage of the TTL

[Paradox]

Thanks for the advice - I'll probably go for the Olympus. :)