Coolpix 900-series flash Magic

2nd November - 2001
By Ian Burley

A company from Willunga, South Australia, has contacted us with news of an accessory that should be of interest to users of Nikon Coolpix 990 and 995 cameras. It’s called the Magic Bracket and it’s a versatile flash bracket custom designed for use with Coolpix 950, 990 and 995 cameras.

One of the intrinsic problems with modern compact cameras - both film and digital types, is that of locating the flash gun close to the lens of the camera. This has two main problems - the dreaded red-eye effect and, secondly, the problem of flat illumination, often with sharp detracting shadows.

For better control over flash lighting, you really need an external flash, which is likely to be more powerful, set away from the lens, hopefully with the option of being able to bounce the flash output from a reflector or a convenient wall or ceiling.

The innovative Nikon Coolpix family has a twisting body that enables the lens to be swivelled independently of the main body that includes the LCD view screen. However, the flash is very close to the lens and cannot swivel independently of it. The Magic Bracket is designed to solve this problem using an external flash unit and can be tripod mounted. The unit can also be used with an additional grip for use off a tripod.

According to the company, the unit, made from anodised cast aluminium was designed to avoid practical problems exhibited by existing designs from other companies. It’s light, isn’t bulky and it’s very versatile. Comprehensive details about the Magic Bracket can be obtained by going to the company’s Web site.

Due for release on the 26th November, the Magic Bracket full 'Pro' unit is priced A$143, about US$71, or about £50 plus US$10 (approx £7) shipping by Air Mail. The company is taking orders now, with an introductory promotion of a free gift for the first 20 orders received between now and the 19th November.

We’ll be reviewing a Magic Bracket in a few weeks.

www.magicbracket.com

[Back to top of the page]