Photographers always want the perfect lighting. But when you can’t rely on having perfect conditions (especially when you’re shooting on the go) detachable camera flashes are a must. These portable lighting options are versatile enough to work on and off-camera as reliable lighting sources. They can create complex, dynamic shots, but they’re fast enough to sync with your camera, and several cameras flash at once.
If you’re a photographer who creates images with artificial light, this article is for you. Let’s walk through everything there is to know about detachable camera flashes, from frequently asked questions to the best detachable camera flashes today.
What is a Detachable Camera Flash?
A detachable camera flash (or external flash) is a camera flash that is not built into the camera body. It can either be mounted to a camera via the camera’s hot shoe or remotely triggered off-camera. Detachable camera flashes are also much faster than on-camera flashes and can be synced up with a softbox or umbrella for even greater lighting control and versatility.
Best Detachable Camera Flashes
Flashpoint Zoom Li-on III R2 TTL Speedlight Flash
Over the years, Flashpoint has made some of the best detachable flash camera flashes on the market. The Flashpoint Zoom Li-on R2 TTL Speedlight Flash is no exception. It builds off the amazing Zoom Li-on II but with added features that improve efficiency and speed, making shooting with this detachable flash an absolute breeze.
Key Features:
- Powerful flash with GN 197ft / 60m at ISO 100 (200mm)
- Approximately 450 full-power flashes per charge
- Auto-sensing TTL radio receiver modes
- Zooming 20-200mm head with automatic or manual control
- High-Speed Sync for shutter speeds up to 1/8000 second
- Stable color temperature at 5300 +/- 200K over the entire power range
- 330-degree rotation and 120-degree tilt head
Canon Speedlite EL-100, Shoe Mount Flash
Canon has made great detachable camera flashes for years — for any use, budget, or skill level. The Canon Speedlite EL-100 is one of its best, all at an affordable price point. The Speedlite EL-100 is compact, versatile, powerful, and adjustable to fill frames with additional, necessary light.
Key Features:
- Compatible with Canon E-TTL / E-TTL II
- Horizontal and upward bounce rotation capability
- Maximum guide number of approx. 85 ft./26m at ISO 100
- 24mm wide-angle coverage
- Optical wireless flash function (sender and receiver)
- Flash exposure control including support for stroboscopic flash and continuous shooting
- Camera-linked functions including interlocked external flash power on/off
Profoto A10 On and Off Camera Flash
The Profoto A10 Flash is easily the most impressive detachable camera flash on this list and one of the best flashes on the market today. But that performance and feature set does come at a higher price. The A10, which builds off its wildly popular A1X predecessor, was made for professionals who require the very best lighting technology. It syncs quickly and effectively to any on-camera or off-camera device or mount and even works through your smartphone.
Key Features:
- Compatible with all magnetic Profoto Clic Light Shaping Tools
- Compatible with all Profoto Air, AirTTL, and Connect triggers
- Smart connectivity with the Profoto app for iOS
- Built-in AirX Bluetooth sync technology
- Exchangeable and rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery
- Flash head with 90-degree tilt and 360-degree rotation
- Optional hot shoe versions for Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Fujifilm cameras
Nikon SB-700 TTL Shoe Mount Speedlight Flash
Nikon was the originator of the speedlight flash in the 1960s and still continues to develop and create some of the best detachable camera flashes on the market today. The Nikon SD-700 TTL Shoe Mount Speedlight Flash follows that tradition, with a feature-rich, powerful camera flash that works seamlessly while on or off camera.
Key Features:
- Compatible with Nikon i-TTL
- Complete flash head positioning freedom bounce 90½ up and 7½ down with 360½ rotation
- Hot shoe and wireless operation use on-camera
- Wireless flash control wireless commander mode
- Wide as 24mm coverage and up to 120mm in FX format
- 3 light distribution patterns
- Flash tube overheat protection
Canon Speedlite EL-10
The Canon EL-10 portable shoe mount is a detachable camera flash that works seamlessly with Canon cameras suitable for mirrorless photographers. It offers powerful light control and placement through its design and feature set. When paired with compatible EOS R series camera bodies, the Canon Speedlite EL-10 becomes a powerhouse, allowing you to control up to 15 additional Speedlite units.
Key Features:
- Compatible with Canon E-TTL / E-TTL II
- Guide number of 131′ at ISO 100 and 200mm
- Zoom range of 24-200mm (14mm with panel)
- Tilts upward 90° and rotates 180° right & 150° left
- Extended Control of 1/1 to to 1/1024
- Recycle Time: 0.1-1.2 Seconds
- Runs on four AA Batteries
- 2.4 GHz Wireless Radio Transmission
Panasonic DMW-FL360L Wireless LED Flash
The Panasonic DMW-FL60L Wireless LED Flash is a fantastic detachable flash for Panasonic LUMIX users. It’s equipped with versatile features that help improve connectivity, speed, and usability, with integrated user-friendly controls.
Key Features:
- Compatible with Panasonic TTL
- Guide number of 118′ at ISO 100 and 42mm
- Zoom range of 12-42mm (8mm with Panel)
- Tilts from -7 to 90°
- Rotates left and right 180°
- LED Light with 100 lux output at 3.3′
- Runs on four AA Batteries
Sony HVL-F46RM GN46 Wireless Radio Control External Flash
The Sony HVL-F46RM GN46 Wireless Radio Control External Flash might be the last detachable camera flash on our list, but it’s certainly one of the best. Designed and engineered to work brilliantly with Sony’s Alpha camera series, this high-performance, versatile flash uses smart features like face detection and TTL metering to provide next-level versatility and lighting control on and off camera.
Key Features:
- Compatible with Sony ADI / P-TTL
- Operates as an on-camera flash, radio wireless commander, or receiver
- Up to 60 flashes in high-speed bursts at up to 10 fps
- High-Speed Sync, Rear-Sync, Slow-sync, and Multi-flash settings
- Wirelessly control up to 15 flash units in up to 5 groups
- Resistance to overheating for continuous performance
- Flexible bounce angles 180 degrees left/right, 150 degrees up, 8 degrees down
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a difference between a flash and a speedlight?
No, Speedlight is simply a brand name for a detachable or external flash.
The term Speedlight was created by Nikon in the 1960s for their detachable, external flashes. Canon quickly followed, adopting the same name but spelled differently — naming their detachable camera flashes, “Speedlites.” Today, most flash and camera manufacturers use either a name or something similar to brand their detachable camera flashes.
Is a detachable camera flash worth it?
Absolutely. While higher-end detachable camera flashes can run between $300-$500) sometimes getting close to four figures each) these powerful flashes can provide incredible, synced lighting power in a portable package that you can take just about anywhere.
Detachable camera flashes are also much more versatile since you can mount them on-camera or remotely trigger them to fire off-camera. This can create unique and intriguing lighting for your composition. If you are a portrait, fashion, or product photographer, or require more control over your lighting while on the go, a detachable camera flash is most definitely worth it.
Are flashes good for wedding photography?
Yes, detachable camera flashes are one of the most essential camera accessories you can buy for your wedding photography lighting kit. Not only does carrying several detachable camera flashes allow for greater lighting control when natural light is not available, but the speed and mounting versatility make them great when light is low and shutter speeds need to be fast.
Conclusion
We hope this article sheds some light on what detachable camera flashes are, what to look for, and why you need them if you’re a photographer constantly shooting portraits, products, fashion, weddings, and more. Whether you work in-studio or on the street, a detachable camera flash can add the versatility and light control you need to take even more dynamic photographs for your clients. It is a must-have camera accessory for your camera kit.
