How to remotely flash a flashbulb?

4 years 1 month ago #677048 by jimvulcan
Does anyone know if flashbulbs were still available in stores in 1988 1989
and whether they could be flashed from the distance , as in not attached to any camera
just using wires?
Also , could flashbulbs cause fire if the bulb flashed being close to some textile?


,
4 years 1 month ago #677084 by effron
I haven't seen flash bulbs in years. Remote fire, I doubt it and I don't think they could easily cause a fire.
Why not pick up a speedlight? 

Why so serious?
Photo Comments
,
4 years 1 month ago #677092 by Nikon Shooter

jimvulcan wrote: Does anyone know if flashbulbs were still available in stores in 1988 1989

Antique shops maybe? :P

jimvulcan wrote: and whether they could be flashed from the distance , as in not attached to any camera just using wires?

This is so old… I do believe technologies were available then.



jimvulcan wrote: Also , could flashbulbs cause fire if the bulb flashed being close to some textile?

In terms of "magi cubes, that was safe since it was a consumer product
but I would not be so sure about the bulbs used on Graflex cameras.

Attachment not found


Light is free… capturing it is not!
Photo Comments
Attachments:
,
4 years 1 month ago #677097 by fmw
Sorry, you will need a cord.


Photo Comments
,
4 years 1 month ago #677113 by CharleyL
I have no idea what your application for this might be. If it's for taking a photo, you will need to sync the flash to your camera somehow. Old flashguns for professional cameras had connectors/cables for attaching to a sync connector on the camera. You could/can buy sync cables for moving the flashgun away from the camera and still fire it when the picture was taken. Don't connect these old style flash units to the sync connectors of new cameras. They are not voltage compatible and you will likely damage the camera.

If not for photography and you just want to make a flash for studio effect, Halloween prank, etc. You might be able to locate an old Magic Cube flash bulb. It was actually 4 flash bulbs in one cube container that the camera rotated after each photo was taken. These didn't use electricity to set the flash off. There was a Piezo-Electric crystal attached to each bulb that generated the electrical pulse needed to cause the bulb to flash. The camera had a small hammer/plunger that would strike this crystal as it took the picture, so no batteries were necessary. Just dropping a Magic Cube would sometimes cause one or more bulbs to flash.

If you don't find a Magic Cube, but do find a regular flash bulb, an old push button igniter from a defunct gas grill connected to the bulb will cause it to flash when the button is pushed. Again without batteries or camera.

A little more information from you might get the help you need.

Charley


,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

The Sigma fp L is a compact full-frame camera with a 61-megapixel sensor, 4K video capabilities, in-body image stabilization, and weather-sealed construction. What’s not to like?!

Mar 19, 2024

The Canon 1DX Mark III is a big, burly professional camera packed with top-end features. Is it worth the investment in 2024? Find out in this detailed review!

Mar 04, 2024

In the OM-1 vs OM-5 debate, which camera comes out on top? Though they’re different cameras for different purposes, comparing them head to head clarifies which is best for your needs.

Mar 01, 2024
Get 600+ Pro photo lessons for $1

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

Time management is a critical skill to master when you’re a photographer. But how do you get the most out of the limited time you have? Check out this guide to learn a few tricks!

Mar 27, 2024

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

Opening a photography business means undertaking various photography marketing strategies to promote your work. But you don’t want to do the same old thing - try these unique ideas!

Mar 22, 2024

The Canon EOS 80D might be a few years old, but it’s nevertheless a quality camera to invest in as a beginner or enthusiast looking for a mid-range DSLR with tons of lens options.

Mar 22, 2024

Wedding consultations are a critical part of a wedding photography gig. It’s when you learn about the couple and their wants, and present them with how you will meet those desires.

Mar 22, 2024

If you're looking for the best metal print of 2023, you'll find it from Artbeat Studios. After months of testing, Artbeat Studios beat out the competition!

Mar 21, 2024

Getting the best video shots on your camera or smartphone requires you to understand the fundamentals of composition and video editing. It helps to have the appropriate gear, too!

Mar 20, 2024

It’s easy to lose your inspiration behind the lens, especially as a beginner. These creative photography projects can help inspire you to try new techniques and improve your photos.

Mar 20, 2024