Vivitar 730AF AutoFocus Zoom Electronic Flash for Nikon Camera

This model of the Vivitar 730AF is dedicated to Nikon SLR cameras. The swivel flash head adjusts to 150 degrees to the right and 180 degrees to the left. This bounce-type flash gives your images softer, more professional lighting. The Auto Thyristor circuitry gives this flash a fast recycle time and offers a high number of flashes per set of batteries. Additional features include zoom flash, auto off, and autocheck. The Vivitar 730AF runs on four AA batteries and comes with a two-year warranty.

1 Decent flash, but overpriced
I bought the Vivitar 730AF for my Nikon N70. I work as a photographer for a newspaper, and this flash seemed to be just what I needed, Speedlight auto-focus for low light situations, zoom head, and what I assumed to be partial dedication. However, I was a little disappointed with the performance once I got the flash.

First, the camera is not dedicated in any way, which it should be for the price. When shooting photos for an assignment, I tried my new flash and was disappointed when my negatives came out underexposed due to the fact that the camera was not communicating with the flash at all.

The zoom head of the flash does not spread the light evenly, causing occasional falloff around the edges and inconsistencies in low light situations. The speedlight worked well focusing the camera, but the other shortcomings do not make up for it.

Don't get me wrong, I do not hate the flash, I just cannot depend on it. If you are a serious photographer, I would suggest that you invest in a Nikon SB-28. This is a decent flash, but it is rather pricey for the performance. Also, I would not suggest this flash for a beginner photographer since the operation is completely manual.