Still popular today and much sought after by off-camera flash enthusiasts, the Vivitar 283 is a true classic.
Introduced in 1970 and promoted by Vivitar as “The Light Machine”; the 283 became the world’s best selling flash and outsold all its competitors combined. Although a little slow to charge the 283 was very popular with both professionals and amateurs. Earning a reputation as a reliable and dependable workhorse it became a mainstay with photographers around the world.
Revolutionary in its time, the “Auto Thyristor” circuitry cut off the flash when the correct exposure had been detected by the built-in sensor allowing faster recycling time and a higher number of flashes.
Vivitar 283 – An Expandable Workhorse
A range of accessories extended the capability of the 283 which helped it’s appeal. Out of the box, the 283 provided four auto exposure modes plus manual. Greater flexibility could be achieved with the the VP-1 Varipower Module which provided full manual control of the flash output from full to 1/64th power.
The BD-1 attached an 8x10in card to the flash to help soften and spread the light.Varipower Module VP-1
- Varipower Module VP-1
- Bounce Diffuser BD-1
- Filter and Lens Kits FK-1, LK-1
- Lens/Filter Adaptor FA-1
- Remote Sensor Cords SC-1, SC-2
- Remote Flash Trigger SL-1
- High Voltage Pack HVP-1
- RB-510 Battery for HVP-1
- Special NiCad Pack NC-3
- AC Adaptor SB-4
Vivitar 283 – Trigger Voltage Issue
Over the years the Vivitar 283 was manufactured in Korea, Hong Kong and Japan. With some versions the trigger voltage is extremely high and can run to hundreds of volts! With film cameras of the time this wasn’t a problem as the mechanical systems could handle it. With a modern DSLR or Mirrorless camera however, its’ a serious issue and the high voltage can easily damage the circuitry of modern digital cameras.
Some theories suggest that the models produced in Japan suffer from the high sync voltage issue. However, I have a Korean version which has a sync voltage of 260v!
While it’s highly advisable to check the sync voltage with a multi-meter before attaching a Vivitar 283 to a DSLR, it’s much safer to err on the side of caution and NEVER directly connect one to the camera. If you use an optical slave or wireless trigger such as a Pocket Wizard to fire your flash you’ll be set to go and the high voltage won’t be a problem.
Vivitar 283 – Modifications
At the height of it’s popularity, several companies offered modifications to the Vivitar 283. Versions could be built with 2 flash heads.
A Portable Lighting Setup
A couple of 283s with VP-1 modules, Manfrotto nano stands, umbrellas, and radio triggers makes for an ideal lightweight lighting setup. We still keep this kit handy and ready to go in a small tripod bag. We often end up using them to supplement our other lighting on location.
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