Vivitar DF400MZ vs the 285HV
So I have my new Vivitar’s today; one 285HV and a DF400MZ. The DF400MZ is apparently Vivitar’s newer model and includes E-TTL modes compatible with modern Canon and Nikon DSLR’s.
The 285HV represents a workhorse design that’s been the staple of many professional’s kits, while the DF400MZ went all electrical. I’ll have the lowdown on the ergonomics tomorrow. Bottom line is I’m keeping the DF400MZ and returning the 285HV.
November 14, 2008 at 1:55 pmBernard Shuford
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Do you still feel this way about the DF400MZ? I want a 285.
November 16, 2008 at 11:39 amEric Spehr
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Oh yes, I returned the 285HV a long time ago. My DF400MZ replaced my Canon 420ex as my emergency ETTL on-camera flash. (Note to self: finish my 420ex pics and sell it!)
Basically the 285, with the exception of no optical slave, is for most photographers a better choice for an off-camera flash. But that’s a spot already filled for me by 2 Canon 540ez flashes.