Camera flashes

Camera flash: how to choose for your camera and buy well

Updated 20 October 2026

On-camera flash or studio light

This category holds several different devices, so start by choosing the type.

• An on-camera flash (speedlight) sits on the camera's hot shoe or works off-camera. It is light and mobile.
• A studio flash (monolight) is more powerful, runs on mains or a battery and gives steady light for portraits and product shots.
• A ring flash suits macro and beauty photography.
• A radio trigger is needed to fire several flashes remotely.

Camera system and compatibility

Compatibility is the biggest problem. Automatic TTL mode and high-speed sync (HSS) work only when the flash “understands” your camera: Canon, Nikon, Sony and Fuji each have their own protocols. So be sure to write your camera system and model in the request. Flashes without such support work in manual mode: fine for a studio, but awkward for quick reportage shooting.

Power and features

For on-camera flashes, power is given as a guide number; for studio flashes, as energy in joules (watt-seconds). A compact studio setup is roughly 200 to 400 J, and larger modifiers and group portraits call for more. Useful features: TTL, HSS (lets you shoot at fast shutter speeds in bright light), a built-in radio module, a lithium-ion battery instead of AAs, and a modelling lamp on studio units.

For an off-camera flash, remember the stand, softbox or reflector: modifiers are what make light soft. Without them even an expensive flash gives harsh shadows.

What to put in your request

• Type of flash - on-camera, studio, ring, trigger.
• Camera system - Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fuji and TTL/HSS support.
• Model - for example, Godox V860III.
• Power - guide number or joules.
• Features - TTL, HSS, radio module, battery.
• Quantity - a single flash or a kit.
• New or used.
• Warranty.
• Delivery, city, budget.

Example: “I need a kit of two 400 J studio monolights with a radio trigger that works with Nikon, new or in perfect condition. Courier delivery to Manila. Budget up to ₱8,800.”

How to compare offers

Compare the type, compatibility and what is included: a studio flash kit may or may not come with a softbox, stand or trigger. Ask whether spare parts such as lamps or batteries are available. For used units, ask about the number of flashes fired, the condition of the battery compartment and whether there is corrosion on the contacts.

How BlaBlaPrice helps

You write a request with the system and power you need, and sellers of photo gear reply in a chat with the model, price, what is included and delivery. The platform shows the best offer by content first, with reviews next to it. Contacts stay hidden until you choose a seller. Details: “How it works”.

With a flash you may also need tripods and camera accessories.