To accompany the OM-D E-M1 II, Olympus has announced what it describes as the ‘world’s first dust, splash and freezeproof macro twin flash’ in the shape of the STF-8 Macro flash.
Each of the unit’s two flash heads has a guide number of 6m at ISO 100, giving a combined guide number of 8.5m when both are fired together. The output ratio between the two can be adjusted from 1:8 to 8:1 in TTL mode, and likewise when working in manual mode the power output can be adjusted through an 8-stop range.
The STF-8 is designed to be fully compatible with Olympus’s M. Zuiko Digital ED 30mm f/3.5 Macro, M. Zuiko Digital ED 60mm f/2.8 Macro and M. Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro lenses, holding the flash heads flush with the front of the lens so as not to increase the minimum practical working distance. The heads can be tilted and slid around the ring adapter that attaches to the lens, or even attached entirely to give a fully flexible setup.
The STF-8 also compatible with Olympus’s off-camera flash system, so can be used on concert with other flash units. It is scheduled to be in the shops in December at a price of £449.
Full press release
Olympus OM-D is on a mission to give photography professionals and enthusiasts exactly what they want. Not only the new OM-D E-M1 Mark II sets new benchmarks in speed and mobility, the whole system available is designed to convert professionals and photo enthusiasts to the lighter side of photography. The accompanying accessories are now complemented with the new STF-8 Macro Flash, available from December 2016 at £449.99.
This compact and lightweight flash features sealing technology cultivated on cameras and lenses to deliver the world’s first dust-, splash- and freezeproof macro twin flash. In combination with weatherproof OM-D models and lenses, this system is highly versatile in any shooting environment and allows shooting with confidence even in rain or morning dew-splashed outdoor scenes.
The STF-8 twin flash is designed for a perfect output to match macro shooting, with a guide number of 8.5 when both heads are fired, and 6 when firing one head. The output ratio of left and right flash head (A/B) can be set from 1:8 to 8:1 through two dials on the control panel. In addition to high- precision TTL auto sync, the output can be fine-tuned for manual flash firing within 1/1 to 1/128. The full control of the flash output makes it easier to avoid overexposure. Shadows can be controlled to emphasize depth of subjects, and accurately reflect your intentions for creative expressions. Precise output control also helps to shorten charging times by setting the appropriate flash output.
The flash construction allows the closest shooting distance which a specific lens may capture, as the flash heads do not protrude. They can be tilted in a range of 60°upward to 40°downward and can slide along the ring adapter. The flash heads may also be detached from the ring adapter for versatile angles and shooting distances.
Remote firing from the front of the control section is compatible with the Olympus wireless RC flash system that communicates via infrared (commander only). The separately sold clip-on flash FL-900R and other large flashes for background light can be used for multi-unit lighting. Features such as Olympus Focus Bracketing, Focus Stacking and High Res shot on the OM-D E-M1 Mark II, E-M5 Mark II (manual flash only) and E-M1 (however no High Res function) can be used to further expand expressions. Frame speed is controlled to coincide with charging time and firing priority during shooting.
Product specifications are subject to change without notice. Please check the Olympus website at www.olympus-europa.com for the latest specifications.
* Splashproof, dustproof and freezeproof according to Olympus test conditions.
Pricing and Availability
The Olympus STF-8 macro flash is priced at £449.99 inc VAT and available from December 2016 from key photographic retailers.
