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Originally posted by Muse I don't see mention here of an external flash. I've yet to get my first DSLR, am favoring the K-x at the moment, but have it in mind that I need an external flash early on based on the heavy recommendation by Scott Kelby in his Digital Photography Book (Volumes one and two), which I purchased. He says that portraiture without external flash is a disgrace, essentially (and explains why). I understand that the high ISO performance of the K-x is exceptional, however figure that under certain conditions an external flash can be instrumental in achieving great results. What external flash possibilities are there with the K-x?
Here is
THE definitive site on comparing all flashes compatible with Pentax DSLRs. Site is made and maintained by a Pentax Forums member too.
I think the statement about portraiture and external flash ought to be clarified a bit. If you use the onboard pop-up flash as-is, yes, this will yield pretty poor results almost all the time. This is because the light is direct and harsh. If you can find a way to re-direct the light elsewhere, you will have indirect and softer lighting.
You can make or buy flash diffusers for your onboard pop-up flash that will yield much better results than just using a pop-up flash as-is. If money is tight, this would be a good option. I myself just angled a white index card in front of my pop-up flash for about a month before I convinced my wife that we needed an external flash
If money is not tight, then yes, an external flash is a great thing to have. Make sure it has tilt/swivel capabilities, which will let you direct the light upwards/backwards/sideways.
Originally posted by Muse Beyond these things I figure I'll need a bag, a UV filter or two (to protect the lenses, more than anything), a polarizing filter maybe, 2 sets of Eneloops. I have a couple of 4GB SDHC cards, but they were a bargain purchase a couple of years ago, nothing special. Are they apt to function OK or will I not be satisfied with them?
The jury is out on UV filters. There are people on both sides of that issue. From the opinions I see on these forums (not scientifically rigorously determined), it seems like a slight majority of people here are against UV filters to protect the lens, unless you are in a harsh environment like seaside or Afghanistan or something.
Polarizing filter is good, especially if you are shooting outdoors. Make sure you get high quality filters if you are going to use them.
Eneloops are the best AAs you will ever put in your DSLR.
Your old SDHC cards will probably work, but the speed might be lacking. Would be good to purchase some ones that you know are fast. Sandisk Ultras are good, Sandisk Extremes are better. I think Lexar is a good brand too, just make sure you are getting a fast one. Of course, if you have absolutely no need for ever doing continuous shooting, you can stay with your old ones.
Last edited by ChooseAName; 07-12-2010 at 08:15 AM.
Reason: re: eneloops