External power packs for camera mounted flash

[Ray Rozema]

Hi I would like to ask for advise /opinion.Do you use external power packs for camera mounted flashes in the setting of bird photography?Pros and cons?If so the 40$ vs the 140$ThanksRay Rozema

[Pedro Serralheiro]

I use a lot the external power pack. It shorten the recycle time and allows for more and quicker bursts. Downside is weight and another item to carry and look for.
I have Nikon's and third party ones. The price difference is huge and for bird photography I can't see why the third-party can't be used. Things change when you need to put the flash in slave mode, as with the SB800 only Nikon external pack works. Quality is on the branded ones, including the pouch.
As I normally use slave flashes I tend to work only with the Nikon's.

[Michael Pancier]

I use the Quantum. It's very light and compact and puts out a lot of flashes and works with any system with the right cable. I typically use it only when doing long shoots. Downside of it is when you're going through water/mud; it can get in the way.

[Ray Rozema]

Thanks for the advice

Ray Rozema

[Jackie Schuknecht]

I got the Canon knock off at Ebay, 70 vs 250 dollars. Seems to work fine.. not sure if you are Canon or Nikon. Just get some velcro or a rubber band and attach it to your external flash.

[EdNguyen]

I also the Quantum Turbo Compact Battery to power my Canon 580EX II flash. I shoot mostly handheld, so the Quantum is attached to the bottom of my camera (Canon 7D). The recycle time is shortened considerably from about three seconds to one second at full power. I usually dial down the flash exposure to -2, so the recycle time is much faster. The only drawback is the additional weight (one pound), especially for shooting handheld and hiking long distances. I'm getting used to it, though :)

[Kevin Hall]

If your Quantum is getting dragged through the water and mud get yourself a waterproof balaclava and a carabiner. This is a great way to protect your battery.