[photo-3d] For Philip Steinman

["David W. Kesner" <drdave@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Please forgive me for posting this to photo-3d, but my return 
address had be blocked (an ongoing problem with my ISP!) and I 
would really like to get this message to Philip. Besides, it 
may be useful to others on the list.

Philip - I can still receive messages from you so could you 
let me know if you see this message? Sorry if you did not want 
this public.
____________________________

Hello Philip,

> I'd like to set myself up with a Vivitar flash system 
> that I could use caving this summer.  I have a 
> Realist and I just got a Vivitar 285.  What other
> and how many flash units/accessories (Vivitar 283s?) should
> I get to compliment the 285?

It all depends on what you are planning to shoot. If you will 
just be doing small passages, formations, and cavers, then 
what you have will do just fine. If you want to get some 
dramtic lighting effects, then another flash and slave will be 
needed. If you want to do big rooms and such, there is no 
limit on flashes and slaves.

In my humble opinion, three flashes and slaves will do just 
about everything you need. To that end I would suggest two 
283's to compliment your 285. These are only about $70.00 new 
from B&H. You can also get a metal shoe with a built-in Wein 
slave for another $40.00.

> Also, what is special about
> the Firefly II and where can I get one?

It is made by cavers for cavers. It works by the cutoff of 
infrared light so even flash bulbs will trigger it and so will 
a blocked flash (this is where you can place some exposed film 
over the flash to block the visible light and still be able to 
trigger the slave. It is also effective up to about 1500 feet 
and works around corners and such. Most normal slaves require 
a direct line of sight and are only good for a few hundred 
feet. The US dealer is Peter Jones, you can email him at 
<71643.3236@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>

> I also have a new RBT S1.  I'm a bit hessitant to take
> it caving, but I was wondering if you use the Vivitar and
> Firefly II system with this also?

Just get a good Pelican (or similar - I like Tundra as they 
are much less expensive - also from B&H) case. It will protect 
that S1 just fine. Of course after you take it out it is all 
up to you to protect it *{;-)

Yes, you can use multiple stobes and slaves with the S1, you 
just need to set it to manual and the right settings.

> I was modestly successful with my Realist 3d shots 
> last summer in Crystal Cave (Sequoia Nat'l Park),
> but I'd love to go back with more knowledge.

When do you think you will have enough images to start 
participating in the 3D Underground Folio? It only takes five 
images and only comes around every 6-9 monthns.

> I ordered
> that cave book you recommended from Amazon.com,
> but it's going to take awhile to get.

You won't be disappointed. Chris is a whole lot more 
knowlegable than I am and has a lot of great advice.

That's all for now,

David W. Kesner
Boise, Idaho, USA
drdave@xxxxxxxxxx

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