Sony Alpha and Sigma Ringflash

[JohnRostron]

This post is an update on my thread on 'Any old Sony users out there'. I have a Sony A55 camera and recently acquired a Sigma ringflash. After much experimentation, I managed to get them working together. There are two peculiarities. First is that it only works with the Sony kit lens, and not my (fairly old) Sigma 85mm macro. Second, it only works with the flash mode set to 'Fill flash' and with the built-in flash open. It does take a well-lit image, and the flash-compensation works OK.

The built-in flash problem I can live with, but... I am hoping to acquire a quality macro lens (eg Tamron 90mm) in the not-too-distant future. My question is: will this work with my present camera and ringflash combination?

[tao2]

This post is an update on my thread on 'Any old Sony users out there'. I have a Sony A55 camera and recently acquired a Sigma ringflash. After much experimentation, I managed to get them working together. There are two peculiarities. First is that it only works with the Sony kit lens, and not my (fairly old) Sigma 85mm macro. Second, it only works with the flash mode set to 'Fill flash' and with the built-in flash open. It does take a well-lit image, and the flash-compensation works OK.

The built-in flash problem I can live with, but... I am hoping to acquire a quality macro lens (eg Tamron 90mm) in the not-too-distant future. My question is: will this work with my present camera and ringflash combination?

Hi John,

Have ye checked yer flash settings in "Flash Control" in the menus? Try it on each setting with yer Sigma lenses and ringflash. Sigma lenses and accessories are notorious for showing incompatibilities with camera bodies. On the boxes for yer lenses/flash, does it say "Compatible with Alpha" ? Ah'd also check all yer Sony/Minolta lenses, one by one on every flash setting. A laborious process but it may help ye find out whether it's yer Sigma gear or a faulty camera body. Ah'd sort these problems before ah even thought about buying another lens.

Ah'd also get in touch with Sony/Sigma support tae find out if there are known problems with yer particular Sigma gear and the A55.