The Sony a7 II and a7R II are highly-regarded mirrorless cameras that are loved by both amateur and professional photographers alike. With their advanced features and high-quality image capture capabilities, they require an equally advanced flash to help photographers achieve their creative visions. In this buying guide, we’ll explore the best flashes available for the Sony a7 II and a7R II cameras, highlighting the key features that you should consider before making a purchase. Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or fast-moving action, we’ll help you find the right flash to take your photography to the next level.
Best Flash for Sony a7 II & a7R II
1. Godox V1-S Round Head Camera Flash
The V1’s detachable 2600mAh lithium-ion battery provides up to 480 full-power flashes per charge, ensuring you don’t miss a beat. The V1 recycles to full power in just 1.5 seconds, keeping up with your subject. The V1 also enables front and rear curtain sync up to 1/8000 sec for controlling bright backgrounds and shooting wide apertures.
The V1 features an optical slave and a built-in 2.4 GHz receiver for Godox X System transmitters. The V1 can control up to four wireless groups in a master/slave arrangement, with the V1’s settings copied to the slave flashes. An AF assist lamp, a 3200K LED modeling lamp and a 2.5mm port for cabled triggering are also included.
2. Godox V860II-S High-Speed Sync GN60 1/8000 2.4G TTL
In general, the V860IIS may tilt from -7 to 90° and rotate left and right 180°. This flash supports high-speed sync, flash exposure adjustment, 1st and 2nd curtain sync, and more. It may also act as an optical master or slave device.
3. Godox TT685S HSS 1/8000S GN60 TTL Flash Speedlite
The Godox TT685S II Flash supports Sony ADI/P-TTL and has a built-in 2.4 GHz radio system. This flash has a guide number of 197′ at ISO 100 and a zoom range of 20-200mm. The TT685S II is a wireless master or slave unit with TTL capabilities that tilts from -7 to 120° and rotates at 330° for optimum adaptability and lighting setup efficiency. A new TCM (TTL Converted to Manual) function enables rapid TTL to manual conversion. You may use this tool to rapidly determine an appropriate starting point for configuring external flash units in manual mode. An easy-to-read back LCD display reveals flash settings and a 2.5mm sync connection provides basic wired communication.
4. Sony HVL-F45RM Compact, Radio-Controlled Gn 45 Camera Flash
The HVL-F45RM decreases size and weight by over 10% while increasing guide number to 148′ at ISO 100 and 105mm and recycling time to 2.5 seconds. Full bounce is also offered with -8 to 150° tilt and 360° rotation. It also contains a 24-105mm zoom head that can be enlarged to 15mm with a pull-out diffusing plate and an LED light for video. An upgraded back LCD control system allows for customizing flash distribution and memory settings. The flash is also dust and moisture-resistant.
5. Bolt VD-410 Manual Flash
Bolt’s VD-410 Manual Flash gives photographers the practically crucial ability to bring light to otherwise dull or dark subjects. The VD-410’s easy manual operation, a moderate guide number of 124.7′ at ISO 100, and diversity of on- and off-camera triggering options, including wireless, make it a camera bag favorite. The head may be tilted from 0-90° and swiveled up to 90° right or 180° left to alter the light’s positioning. The flash also offers normal coverage for 35mm and longer lenses, and an integrated diffuser that extends coverage to an 18mm lens.
In general, the VD-410 works with any camera that has a hot shoe. The inclusion of a PC sync connector and two optical slave modes, immediate sync and skip one preflash, allows for easy off-camera triggering. This flash may be used as a slave or master trigger with a 33′ range. It also features an HV external power connector for battery packs and can run on four AA batteries with a recycle time of 0.1-5 seconds.
6. YONGNUO YN560 IV Wireless Flash Speedlite Master
The locking flash head allows for full bounce and swivel illumination. For easier off-camera firing, the flash may be optically activated with quick sync or skip pre-flash. The flash has a built-in PC sync connector and Multi-mode allows for stroboscopic lighting effects. The flash uses four AA batteries or an optional HV battery pack and recycles in around three seconds. It has a stand and a protective case.
Buying Guide:
- Flash power and coverage: When looking for a flash for your Sony a7 II or a7R II, it’s important to consider the flash’s power and coverage. The flash’s power will determine how bright it can be and how far it can reach. Meanwhile, the coverage will indicate how wide an area the flash can illuminate. You’ll want a flash that has enough power and coverage to suit your photography needs, whether you’re shooting portraits or landscapes.
- Flash recycling time: Another important factor to consider is the flash’s recycling time. This refers to the amount of time it takes for the flash to recharge and be ready for another shot. If you’re shooting fast-paced action or events, you’ll want a flash with a quick recycling time so you can capture multiple shots without waiting too long for the flash to recharge.
- TTL and HSS: TTL (Through The Lens) and HSS (High-Speed Sync) are features that can make your flash photography easier and more versatile. TTL allows the flash to communicate with your camera to automatically adjust the flash output based on the camera’s settings. HSS allows you to use flash at higher shutter speeds, which is especially useful for outdoor portraits or other situations where you need to balance ambient light with flash.
- Size and weight: The size and weight of the flash may not seem like a crucial factor, but if you’re planning to use your flash for travel or on-the-go photography, it’s worth considering a compact and lightweight option that won’t weigh down your camera bag.
- Brand compatibility: Finally, it’s important to ensure that the flash you choose is compatible with your Sony a7 II or a7R II camera. Some flashes may only work with certain camera models or brands, so make sure to double-check before making your purchase.
Conclusion:
Overall, Sony a7 II and a7R II users have a lot of great flash options to choose from. The best flash for you will depend on your photography needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile option, the Sony HVL-F45RM is a popular choice with TTL and HSS capabilities. If you need a more compact and travel-friendly option, the Godox V1 might be a better fit. Whatever flash you choose, make sure it has the power, coverage, and features you need to take your photography to the next level.
