
( Brand: Vivitar ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: DS-183 ), ( Compatible Brand: For Olympus, For Panasonic ), ( Type: Shoe Mount ), ( Mount Interface: Hot Shoe )
The Vivitar DS-183 TTL Flash is a versatile and powerful accessory for photographers using Olympus or Panasonic cameras. This flash offers TTL metering, ensuring accurate exposure in various lighting conditions. It's an ideal companion for capturing stunning images, especially in low light environments or when using a telephoto lens.
The DS-183 Flash features a guide number of 110 at ISO 100 and 200mm, providing ample coverage for most photography needs. Its zoom head adjusts from 24-105mm, enabling you to match the focal length of your camera lens for optimal flash coverage and reduction of red-eye effect.
This flash is also equipped with a built-in wide-angle diffuser, expanding its coverage to 20mm, perfect for landscape or architectural photography. Additionally, it includes an optional bounce card and a diffuser to soften the light for portraits or indoor photography.
The Vivitar DS-183 TTL Flash is compatible with both Olympus and Panasonic cameras, and it offers various modes, including TTL auto, manual, and multi. It runs on 4 AA batteries, which are not included, and features a high-speed recycling time of approximately 3 seconds at full power.
With its rugged build and sleek design, the Vivitar DS-183 TTL Flash is a reliable and essential tool for any photographer seeking to improve their photography skills and expand their creative possibilities. Whether you're a professional or an enthusiast, this flash will help you capture brilliant, well-exposed images in various lighting conditions.
The Vivitar DS-183 TTL Flash is a compatible accessory for Olympus and Panasonic cameras, offering several advantages and disadvantages when considering a purchase.
Advantages:1. TTL (Through-The-Lens) metering: This feature allows the flash to communicate with the camera and adjust the flash output based on the shooting conditions. It results in more accurate and consistent exposures.
2. Wireless TTL capability: The DS-183 can act as a master or slave flash, allowing you to use multiple flashes off-camera without the need for additional transmitters. This can be useful for more creative lighting setups.
3. Auto and manual power levels: The flash offers both automatic and manual power control, allowing you to adjust the output to suit various shooting situations.
4. Versatile mounting options: It comes with a built-in bounce card and swivel head, enabling you to bounce the light off walls or ceilings for more even and flattering illumination.
5. Affordable: Compared to OEM (original equipment manufacturer) flashes from Olympus or Panasonic, the Vivitar DS-183 is generally more budget-friendly.
Disadvantages:1. Lack of advanced features: The DS-183 does not offer advanced features like HSS (High-Speed Sync) or FP (Front Curtain Sync), which can be limiting for certain types of photography.
2. Build quality: Some users have reported issues with the durability and build quality of the Vivitar DS-183.
3. No PC sync port: The flash does not have a PC sync port, which can be a limitation for studio photography where you might want to use larger modifiers or studio strobes.
Conclusion:The Vivitar DS-183 TTL Flash is an affordable and versatile option for Olympus and Panasonic users looking for a reliable and functional external flash. Its TTL metering and wireless TTL capabilities provide accurate and consistent exposures, while its swivel head and bounce card offer flexibility for creative lighting setups. However, its lack of advanced features and potential build quality concerns may deter some users.
Recommendation:If you're an amateur photographer or a hobbyist who wants a functional and affordable external flash for your Olympus or Panasonic camera, the Vivitar DS-183 TTL Flash is a solid choice. However, if you require advanced features like HSS or FP sync, or if you're a professional photographer looking for a more robust and durable flash, you may want to consider investing in a more expensive OEM flash from Olympus or Panasonic.
This works with TTL mode on Panasonic and Olympus cameras, takes two AA batteries, makes a great party flash - easy to carry in pocket. I used this very little, as it was one of several flashes owned. What makes this special among small flashes is that the head can flipped up to bounce light off ceiling, which looks a lot nicer than blasting folks right in face.