Any recommendations for a flash to mount on my Sony A200?

Question

I need a flash that I can point up, and I know of course I could get a Sony but I see other brands as well that are less expensive. I didn't know which brands are reputable and if you lose quality when it comes to a flash. Do Nikon/Canon/Sony all have different flash mounts like with lenses?

Answer 1

Check the Sony web site and see if they list Minolta Maxxum flash units that would be compatible. The newer Konica-Minolta flash units for the D5 & D7 DSLR cameras should be compatible. I know that after Sony acquired Konica-Minolta they re-badged at least 1 flash unit - the Minolta 3600HS(D).

You might want to check a couple of user groups I found:

http://www.alphatracks.com

http://www.dyxum.com

http://www.photoclubalpha.com

IMO you'd be better off paying a little extra for a dedicated Sony flash unit rather than an after-market unit that depends on a "dedicated module" to achieve compatibility.

Answer 2

Sony Alpha series DSLRs use a proprietary digital flash shoe, that was originally introduced by Minolta.   You must use a flash with ADI capability, unless you only want your flash to operate in manual or full power mode.  TTL (through the lens) flash metering on Sony digital cameras requires that your flash have ADI.  

Besides the Sony flashes, which I think are rather expensive, you can get units from Metz, and Sigma.   The Sigma unit is called the Sigma EF-530 DG Super.  I have also found a good price on a discontinued Vivitar model that apparently works with Sony DSLRs for a bargain basement price at www.gadgetinfinity.com (Hong Kong). I have ordered one for myself, and I am unable to report on the quality, but if you're curious, ask me again in a few weeks and I'll tell you if I like it.

I have an A300 but otherwise, I'm in the same boat as you.

The Sony HVL-F56AM flash is about $500 in Canada, and though it's full of cool features, it seems a bit much to pay for a light-bulb.