Based on other info I've decided to go with a Sony flash so the question is whether the F36AM will be sufficient or I should go with one of the higher end ones (the discontinued 42 or the 56).

My need is simple and not professional. I'm the designated photographer for major family events and need a flash that will be easy to use, lightweight, capable of producing photos that will please the family, and not be too expensive

Again, recommendations appreciated.

Thanks.

M.

Mark

I have the F36AM and would recommend it. However, I don't have a lot of experience to compare. Perhaps one of the most knowledgeable guy I know is a Scot, named Stuart, he goes by Two Truths
I posted something at dpr regarding this. http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1037&message=28825480

I'm not a pro, and last I checked the stats, less than 3% of my images are with flash. Nonetheless, I was stunned to find the little 36 could keep up with my high speed shots, and supported wireless (slave) flash.

Based on feedback on DP Review, including yours, and other research, I bought the F36. I got one new for $350 on eBay which seemed like a good price so I went for it.

Now I'm debating diffusers Omni-Bounce vs LumiQuest. Since I'll use this about as much as you do this is a whole lot of sound and fury signifying very little.

Most of my work is street shooting, landscapes, and wildlife, never portraits, and sporadically family and friend events. This is for the latter.

And I like my party shooting to be more like street shooting so even using an external flash is a close call and adding on some distracting diffuser
seems like a borderline call.

Anyway, thanks for the input. I also checked out your site and enjoyed seeing your photos.

Mark