Metz 15 MS-1 digital

Photo answers review

Photo answers rating

Not only is the Metz 15 MS-1 digital wireless, it also has a clever design that includes two individually-controllable and swiveling reflectors. Each of these can be moved through 20 degrees for much more accurate light distribution.
It works by utilising the camera’s built-in systems designed to provide off-camera flash. It’s a universal product, so simply set the flash to your brand of DSLR, and then use your pop-up flash as a master to trigger the macro flash. To stop the built-in flash affecting the lighting on the subject, a neat little IR flash cover clip allows the infrared light through to trigger the 15 MS-1. For Canon, you do need a Canon Speedlite flashgun, as there is no in-camera wireless flash facility to fire the MS-1. The flash can also be used via a sync cable or by slave firing.
The flash takes two AAA batteries and attaches to your lens via an adapter. These are supplied to fit 52, 55 and 58mm filter threads. Set up isn’t easy, and the instructions aren't the clearest we’ve seen. You may need to alter the output settings for the best performance, but this can be done in-camera and on the flash itself. At £260 it’s for the specialist user.