The Flash X-Tender Better Beamer FX-6 Flash Output Booster for Nikon SB-900 Flash

I am a semi-professional bird photographer ([...]) and have been quite impressed with the results obtained with the Better Beamer coupled with the SB-900 while using super telephoto lenses (e.g., 500 mm with 1.7x teleconverter). At reasonably close ranges, the Better Beamer throws enough light to completely illuminate the subject allowing images to be acquired that were previously unattainable. As a result, I was able to get a great Spotted Towhee shot in dense underbrush that would have been virtually impossible without the flash as a 1/15s exposure was metered before turning on the flash. The use of the Better Beamer and the SB-900 will do more than allow you to capture images in low lighting conditions. I use the flash + Better Beamer in 99% of my wildlife photography -- even on the brightest day -- as it provides great fill lighting, reducing shadows and slowing down the action. Very highly recommended accessory!

What's to say? This is probably the most significantly-helpful accessory to my nature photography, dollar-for-dollar, EVER. Shots that I would never be able to expose properly for creatures in cover or on less than bright days now are not only properly exposed, but seem to pop out of the photos. Added benefit of being able to use lower ISO settings and my flash batteries last longer since I can "under-power" the flash a bit (-.3 to -.7 flash power in most cases.) One word of warning, and this is common sense: This is a FRESNEL that collects and CONCENTRATES LIGHT. DO NOT leave it unattended in bright/direct sunlight. IT WILL MELT OR BURN whatever it focuses the sunlight onto like a magnifying glass will burn grass or wood.

WIth a strong flash you can get some wonderful reach with this. I have this on the sony HVL-60M and it fits and works well. Warning - always be aware of the sun when you have this on your flash as the fresnel lens is a magnifier and is easily capable of burning / setting fire to your flash or surroundings. I plan on making a little V of paper with magnets to hold it shut when I am walking around not actively taking shots.

Cast your light further and enjoy the benefits of better photos. One draw back of bird photography is the small birds usually enjoy hiding within tree branches for a sense of security, where lighting is dim. Using long lenses normally require fast exposure to improve sharpness, however with limited lighting you are kind of stuck with options such as increasing your ISO and shooting slight under-exposed in hopes your camera's dynamic range will allow recovery of details in POST processing. OR! you can buy one of these and incorporate your flash. Visit the TrueToad site for reviews and bird images. How well does it work: very well. I am able to extend my SB -910 and SB-5000 well beyond their normal ranges and pull out details that would otherwise be lost in the dim lighting of trees. But don't expect to extend the light 200 feet, this works well within reason. Pros: Light and easy to carry - you hardly know it is attached to the flash, other than the look and it works! Cons: Plastic and Velcro, I noticed in the hot summer heat, the Velcro adhesive was becoming a bit soft, but it has thus far held up. Also to note, and a warning comes along with the product. The lens is a fresnel lens. If you carry this like I do attached to your flash out in the daylight - be warned ! If the lens is pointed to the sun, the light will be highly focused and concentrated and could instantly burn you, set your hair on fire, or your equipment. SIDE STORY: My lens has a lens coat for protection. I was out one day, and the sun came out while picking up my camera system, I was placing the rig on my shoulder when I noticed the lens coat "smoking", the light became focused from the beamer, No real damage was done, but I could see the scorch marks on the lens coat - funny. Fits to Flash: Just attach to either side of the flash, use the velcro to secure it, and then attach the lens to the front, takes about a minute from start to finish.

I feel a bit selfish about this product. But to review with that attitude would be unfair to the designer, as well as to other photographers. For investing such a trifling price for this flash extender you get a tremendous return. Most acknowledge the necessity of good light for good shooting, so to put it simply, just try this once and you may be shocked at the improvement of your exposures.