Adapting Vivitar Auto Thyristor 2800 for Digital Nikon Cameras: Is It Possible?

** Can You Use a Vintage Vivitar Flash on New Nikon Cameras? Allow’s Find Out! **.

(Adapting Vivitar Auto Thyristor 2800 for Digital Nikon Cameras: Is It Possible?)

Old video camera gear has a strange beauty. Consider the Vivitar Automobile Thyristor 2800. This flash device was a big bargain in the ’70s and ’80s. It’s confusing, hefty, and constructed like a storage tank. Today, professional photographers love mixing old and new equipment for distinct looks. But can this classic flash collaborate with modern-day Nikon DSLRs or mirrorless electronic cameras? The solution isn’t easy. Allow’s break it down.

First, the Vivitar 2800 isn’t simply an awesome antique. It’s a thyristor-based flash, implying it automatically readjusts light outcome based on reflected light. This was advanced technology back then. Modern flashes do this too, but they’re made for digital cameras. The trouble? Older flashes like the Vivitar might send the incorrect voltage to newer video cameras. Excessive voltage can fry your camera’s electronics. Not excellent.

So, step one: check the trigger voltage. The Vivitar 2800’s voltage is reported to hover around 6-12 volts. A lot of modern-day Nikon video cameras handle as much as 12 volts securely. Yet don’t presume. Utilize a voltmeter to examine the flash’s sync terminals. If it’s under 12 volts, you’re likely safe. If it’s higher, stop. Using it could turn your cam right into a paperweight.

Assume the voltage is risk-free. Next difficulty: compatibility. The Vivitar 2800 makes use of a typical warm shoe, however Nikon’s digital cameras depend on TTL (Through-The-Lens) metering for automatic flash control. The Vivitar does not talk TTL. This implies no automated illumination changes. You’ll require to establish every little thing by hand.

Start by setting your Nikon to manual setting. Adjust the flash’s power based on distance and aperture. The Vivitar has an overview number system– divide the guide number by your subject’s range to obtain the right aperture. As an example, if the overview number is 80 (in feet) and your subject is 10 feet away, set your aperture to f/8. Experimentation will be your buddy below.

An additional option: utilize a wireless trigger. Attach the Vivitar to a stand, link a wireless trigger to your video camera’s hot footwear, and fire the flash off-camera. This prevents warm footwear voltage dangers entirely. You’ll still need to manually change settings, yet it includes flexibility.

Some photographers modify old flashes with voltage regulators. These devices rest between the flash and camera, decreasing voltage to risk-free levels. It’s a DIY solution that requires standard electronics abilities. If you’re not comfy soldering wires, possibly skip this.

What regarding sync rate? Many older flashes sync at slower rates, usually around 1/60th of a second. Newer cameras manage quicker sync speeds, yet utilizing the Vivitar might limit you. Examine your video camera’s max sync speed in hands-on mode to prevent dark bands in images.

Is the headache worth it? For some, yes. The Vivitar 2800 produces an extreme, straight light that’s difficult to replicate with modern-day gear. It’s great for abrasive pictures or adding significant darkness. And also, there’s a fun consider using classic technology.

However bear in mind, consistency is tricky. Without TTL, every lighting change implies readjusting setups once more. Miss an action, and you’ll obtain overexposed blobs or murky darkness. For quick shoots or unpredictable settings, a modern flash may save time.

Real-world instance: a photographer combined the Vivitar 2800 with a Nikon D3500 making use of a basic trigger. They fired outdoor portraits at sunset, stabilizing flash power with ambient light. Results were raw and edgy, with a retro ambiance no modern flash might match.

(Adapting Vivitar Auto Thyristor 2800 for Digital Nikon Cameras: Is It Possible?)

In the long run, using the Vivitar 2800 on a Nikon electronic video camera is feasible– with caution. Examine voltage, welcome hands-on settings, and accept some experimentation. It won’t change a modern-day speedlight, yet it includes personality. For enthusiasts and tinkerers, that’s half the fun.