EF-42 Shoe Mount Flash

This is the same flash as the Sunpak PZ42x, except it has the proprietary Fuji TTL hotshoe connection instead of the Canon or Nikon hotshoe. The price difference from the Sunpak PZ42x has been steadily narrowing, and currently the Fuji EF-42 is only about $30 more than listed prices for the Sunpak.I got this flash for my HS-20.The flash has auto and manual features, and auto-zooms with the camera in the range of 24mm-105mm (35mm format). As long as you stay in this range, the flash has great coverage. For instance I can take pictures of my neighborhood at nighttime and get perfectly illuminated shots of houses over 200 feet away (at ISO 3200).The TTL sensing can get confused from nearfield reflected light (especially in wide angle shots) and if there are any strongly reflective objects in the field, such as windows or street signs. That's probably more due to the camera auto exposure settings - if you use a manual camera mode and set it on Spot auto exposure instead of Multi or Whole field sensing, it seems to do better.One other thing I noticed, the flash works in Macro mode, but will not fire when the camera is in Super Macro mode. You can take nice close up Macro shots of small objects with the head swiveled around as a bounce flash.If you want to get a better idea of how this flash works, there are Youtube videos posted for the Sunpak PZ42x you can check out. They are the exact same flash.All in all, it's great to finally have a TTL dedicated flash for the HS-20.

If you don't mind carrying another piece of equipment and have the proper Fuji camera ( X or HS series), this unit will reward you with great flash pictures over an extended range and enhanced control of the quality of the lighting. The head swivels in two directions (great for portraiture) and a red focusing light extends focusing accuracy. The unit offers auto power zoom with the HS series cameras to get the most light output. The LCD back panel buttons let you fine tune the light output with the TTL metering for the best results. I recommend high-power (at least 2000 MAH) rechargeable batteries for the most economical operation as the unit does draw power. Several people have mentioned that this is a SUNPAK flash. That may be true as SUNPAK is a large OEM flash manufacturer, but you MUST purchase this particular model to get all the features to work with your camera and not damage it! My only quibble (and this applies to ALL shoe-mount flash units from any manufacturer regardless of price) is that they mount a top-heavy flash with a plastic foot. Spend a few dollars more and supply a metal foot to minimize the cost of any future repairs (maybe they are counting on this!). Otherwise, a great flash to own if you have proper Fuji camera model that will provide you with quality flash results!

The first one I bought stopped working in 2 days. I returned it and got another. I've used the second one around no more than 15 times. In-between uses I store it on a shelf in my closet inside a padded camera bag. It wouldn't turn on today so I replaced the batteries. It still won't turn on. I will never buy another of these.

I use this flash with my X-Pro2, and used it briefly with my X-Pro1 before upgrading. Focusses fast, and provides good exposure. It's easy to manage and does a great job. One thing I wish it had integrated into the pull-out is a bounce card in addition to the diffuser that flips down.Two weeks after purchasing this unit, it fell out of my bag. The flash itself doesn't show any significant scratches and looks like it's in perfect condition. However, the red, plastic lens cover popped off with the impact and one of the legs that holds it in broke off. I tried to contact Fuji for a replacement piece and had nightmares with their customer service department. LOOOONG hold times, then they refused to send me a new piece. It is a simple snap on piece, and it's a joke that they won't replace it without sending the whole unit in.4 stars for the flash, 1 star for the customer service for an average of 2.5 stars. I gave them 3 hear because I'd rather round up. It's a great little compact flash if you want to use a separate diffuser or don't mind more direct flash.

It is a nice and powerful flash, but not comparable to processional flashes like SB-910 etc. It does not have wireless capabilities and some other more sophisticated functions. As a basic unit, it is pretty good.

This flash matches up with my Fuji camera. It takes up where the in-camera flash leaves off is works quite well. I am still learning to use its settings in concert with the camera but it likely won't be a problem.I am on my 3rd Fujifilm digital camera with each one getting progressively better with the technology advances. I expect this flash to provide some very good service.

A disclaimer: I don't shoot with a flash much, so this is entirely rooted in my needs and experiences with lighting. The EF-42 isn't a bad flash for what it is- it talked with the camera and lighting wasn't a problem. That said, the build quality is abysmally bad. The features and controls also leave a little bit to be desired (for the price). Fuji is a little thin on flash controls on the X Pro 1 which I bought this flash for, and as I'm more comfortable shooting in full manual mode, especially with a flash, I found it a pretty difficult rig to work with on the fly. I'll be returning it and buying a used Nikon speedlight for a fraction of the price, which I'll be able to shoot in manual and use with my other cameras.Again- the EF-42 isn't a BAD flash. It's just not very good either. Certainly not worth the price. Do yourself a favor and buy a used pro flash like a Metz or even an old Sunpak that's sturdier and has more manual controls on it. This is an overpriced cheaply built add on that is not up to the same standards of manufacturing or quality as Fuji's cameras. Not by a long shot.