As a photographer, finding the perfect camera and accessories can be a never-ending quest. When I added the Leica Q2 to my gear, I was thrilled. But when it came time to find a small portable flash, I was surprised to discover that Leica and flash use seem to be a tricky combination. The available information is often outdated, inaccurate, or conflicting. The main reason for this confusion - I guess - is that Leica doesn’t make their own flashes - they rely on other manufacturers and rebrand their products. While this means there are plenty of flash options available for Leica cameras, it can also make things confusing, particularly when it comes to compatibility with different models and lines.

Leica Q2, ISO 400, f5.6, 1/2000sec., Fill flash with FujiFilm EF-X20: 1/32 power

In my quest for the perfect portable and travel friendly flash for my Leica Q2, I’ve done extensive research, and I want to share my findings with the broader photography community. My goal is to provide an overview of the available options and help you make an informed decision when purchasing a flash for your Leica camera. So, whether you’re a Leica veteran or new to the brand, read on to discover the best flash options for your Leica camera and how to get the most out of your flash photography. Let’s dive in!

Leica Q2, ISO 100, f5.0, 1/1600sec., Godox Junior Lux: 1/8 power

Why Bother with Flash for Leica Q/Q2/Q3?

Leica Q and Leica Q2 (and the newest Q3) are unique for flash photography due to their leaf shutter and ability to sync up to 1/2000sec without the need for High-Speed Sync (HSS).

A leaf shutter is a type of shutter that sits in the lens assembly, rather than the camera body. The shutter consists of several overlapping blades that open and close to control the duration of exposure. The main advantage of a leaf shutter is that it allows for faster flash sync speeds, as the flash can be triggered at any point during the shutter’s operation, rather than being limited to the brief moment when the first curtain fully opens.

The Leica Q, Q2, and Q3 have a leaf shutter that allows them to sync with flash at speeds of up to 1/2000th of a second. This is a significant advantage for photographers who need to freeze action or use a wide aperture in bright lighting conditions. It also means that they can use their flash at lower power settings, resulting in faster recycling times and longer battery life.

Additionally, the ability to sync at high speeds without the need for HSS means that the flash can be used in a more natural way, with a more consistent output and color temperature. HSS is often necessary with traditional focal plane shutters, but it can introduce color shifts and other issues.

Overall, the combination of a leaf shutter and the ability to sync at high speeds makes the Leica Q series unique tools for flash photography. They allow photographers to capture images that would be difficult or impossible with other cameras, while maintaining the high-quality output that Leica is known for.

Leica Q2, ISO 100, f4.0, 1/40sec., no flash

Leica Q2, ISO125, f4.0, 1/25sec., FightPix Labs FlashQ Q20II: 1/4 power

Leica Q2, ISO100, f1.8, 1/250sec., no flash

Leica Q2, ISO100, f1.8, 1/250sec., FightPix Labs FlashQ Q20II: 1/32 power

My Flash Workflow with Leica Q series

When using flash, it’s important to remember that you don’t want it to overpower the available light. Instead, aim for a more subtle effect that enhances the natural lighting and adds dimension to your images. One way to achieve this is by using flash as a fill light, rather than the main light source.

When shooting in aperture priority mode and letting the camera automatically select the shutter speed and ISO, the available lighting can often be used to your advantage. However, adding a flash as a fill light can help to balance out harsh shadows and create a more even exposure.

To achieve this, it’s common practice to underexpose the background by 1-2EV and then use the flash as a fill light to illuminate the main subject. This technique helps to isolate the subject from the background and create a more visually appealing image.

As mentioned above, the Leica Q series ability to sync flash as low as 1/2000sec. without the need for HSS makes this technique particularly effective. By using the flash to fill in light, you can create a balanced exposure without having to worry about the limitations of slower shutter speeds.

In summary, if you want to make the most of your Leica Q2 series flash capabilities, the key is to use it as a fill light to enhance the available lighting and create a more even exposure. Underexposing the background can help you isolate your main subject and make it stand out, while syncing the flash at a low shutter speed gives you plenty of flexibility when it comes to lighting your images.

Requirements for Leica Q series Flash and the Search

Finding the ideal flash for your Leica Q2 camera can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. While any flash that fits on the Leica Q flash hotshot can be triggered and will work, there are some features that make a flash perfect for the Leica Q2. Firstly, a small size is preferred, as it will be more convenient to carry around. Secondly, the flash should have a neat design that complements the sleek Leica Q2 body. Thirdly, it should cover the 28mm Leica Summilux lens to prevent any vignetting. Additionally, reliability is key, and the flash should have a pretty reliable output. Finally, it should be controlled manually with the ability to reduce output down to at least 1/64 of the full power (or 1/256 for stronger flashes). My preferred approach involves shooting with the aperture wide open on my Leica Q2, while relying on available light and using flash merely to fill shadows. In light of this, it is imperative to identify the flashes that allow for the greatest reduction in power output. While some larger flashes, like the Leica SF-60 and SF-64, may be tempting, they are not necessarily the best option (on camera - but may be a great option for off camera flash).

When I started my search for the perfect flash for my Leica Q2, I turned to the internet. I scoured forums, Facebook groups, and YouTube videos, trying to find any information I could about flash options for Leica cameras. I delved into technical information and instruction manuals from various flash manufacturers, trying to make sense of it all.

Eventually, I started acquiring various flashes online, hoping to find the perfect one that would meet my needs as a small, portable option for shooting with my Leica Q2. As you’ll see below, the flashes I’m going to review vary widely in price, functionality, and size. But I’ll do my best to provide you with useful information, potential applications, and limitations for each, based on my first-hand experiences with using them.

In-Depth Review of Flash Options for Leica Q/Q2

So far, I’ve tested several flash options for my Leica Q2, and I’m excited to share some my experiences with you. In addition to the Fujifilm EF-X20, FightPix Labs FlashQ Q20II, Godox Lux Junior, I’ve also tested several Leica-branded flashes: Leica SF-24D, SF-40 (rebranded Nissin i40), SF-60 (rebranded Nissin i60A), and the SF C1 trigger (rebranded Nissin Air 10S). In the following sections, I’ll provide you with a more in-depth look at each of these flashes, including their features, potential applications, and any limitations I encountered during my testing. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of which flash option will work best for your Leica Q2 and your photography needs.

From left to right: Godox Lux Junior, FightPix Labs FlashQ Q20II, FujiFilm EF-X20, Leica SF-60 (Nissin i60A)

FujiFilm EF-X20: A Compact and Well Designed Flash Option

Fujifilm EF-X20:

Weight: 100g
Guide Number: 20
TTL Capabilities: Yes (but not with Leica Q2)
HHS Capabilities: Syncs up to 1/2000s with Leica Q2

The FujiFilm EF-X20 is the tiniest flash in this review, making it an ideal option for anyone looking for a compact and easy-to-carry unit. However, it only offers manual operations with the Leica Q2. This metal-housed flash has a lovely finish, and I particularly adore its design. The downside is that it takes around 16-18 seconds to charge fully, which can be a bit frustrating. But, it charges rapidly to 1/8 power in just one second, while 1/64-1/16 power is virtually instantaneous, making it a fantastic fill-in light source at extremely low power. Additionally, the flash coverage is quite uniform, with no noticeable vignetting when paired with the Leica Q2’s 28mm Summilux lens. The FujiFilm EF-X20 is powered by two AAA batteries, which are readily accessible and convenient to replace. At $358 USD I paid for it in March 2023, it can be challenging to locate and is somewhat expensive for its capabilities. However, its small size, lovely light output, and appealing minimalistic design (looks great on Leica Q2) make it a popular choice among street and point-and-shoot and travel / documentary photographers.

Leica Q2 with FujiFilm EF-X20

Leica Q2 with FujiFilm EF-X20

Godox Lux Junior: A Cheap and Reliable Flash Option

Godox Lux Junior:

Weight: 130g
Guide Number: 39.4
TTL Capabilities: No
HHS Capabilities: Syncs up to 1/2000s with Leica Q2

The Godox Lux Junior is the next flash I tested with my Leica Q2. It is the most affordable flash among those discussed in this article, costing only $68 USD. The flash charges much faster than the Fujifilm EF-X20, taking only 5-7 seconds to reach full power, about 1 second to reach 1/8 power, and instantly at 1/64-1/16 power. It can be operated in fully manual and automatic (it defaults to f2.8 at ISO 100) modes. Upon experimenting with the Godox Lux Junior flash, I found myself increasingly fond of it. Specifically, the flash’s automatic mode (A) proved to be remarkably effective. To utilize this mode, I recommend the following workflow:

First, set your Leica Q2 camera to f2.8 and ISO 100, then allow the camera to operate in aperture priority mode (adjusting the shutter speed as needed). From there, the Godox Lux Junior flash will adjust its output based on the available light through its internal sensor. I have personally tested this mode in various settings and have found it to be quite reliable, producing spot-on exposures with a pleasing balance between the fill-in flash and available light.

One potential drawback of this mode is that it requires you to stick to ISO 100 and f2.8 settings on the camera. However, if you’re in a rush and don’t have time to adjust the flash output, this mode can be a lifesaver. It’s remarkable that such a capable feature only costs $68 USD.

It’s worth noting that the design of the Godox Lux Junior causes it to stick out slightly over the back of the camera. This may be an issue for some people who prefer a flush fit or have difficulty seeing through the viewfinder with an elevated flash. However, I did not experience any problems with this issue, and it is more of an aesthetic concern than anything else. Keep this in mind if you are looking for a flash that fits flush with the camera body. The housing is made of plastic and has rather unattractive design, but its fast-recharging time, operation on 2 AAA batteries, and low price make it a solid option for the Leica Q2. It is also readily available from major online photo equipment retailers in the US, making it a good choice for those who need a flash right away and do not want to spend too much on a new one.

Leica Q2 with Godox Junior Lux

Leica Q2 with Godox Junior Lux

Leica Q2 with Godox Junior Lux

FightPix Labs FlashQ Q20II: A Cheap and Versatile Flash Option

FightPix Labs FlashQ Q20II:

Weight: 115g
Guide Number: 20
TTL Capabilities: No
HHS Capabilities: Syncs up to 1/2000s with Leica Q2

The FightPix Labs FlashQ Q20II is the next flash I tested with my Leica Q2. It uses two AA batteries and charges to full power in about 7 seconds, which is faster than the Fujifilm EF-X20 but slower than the Godox Lux Junior. It takes about 1.5 seconds to charge to 1/8 power and less than 1 second to charge to 1/64-1/16 power.

One of the notable features of the FlashQ Q20II is its versatility. It can be used both on and off camera, and multiple units can be synced to one radio using the built-in off-camera controller. The flash also offers a gel system for light temperature correction and the angle can be adjusted between 45-90 degrees for indirect flash.

Despite some minor issues with synchronization and occasional shutdowns during my testing, I found the FlashQ Q20II to be a solid flash option. It is well-known within the photography community and is often used for street and point-and-shoot photography. At just $85 USD, it is a cost-effective option for those looking for a versatile flash. Not the best-looking flash but loaded with features as compared with the two flashes discussed above.

Leica Q2 with FightPix Labs FlashQ Q20II

Leica Q2 with FightPix Labs FlashQ Q20II

Leica SF-60: A High-End Flash Option

Leica SF-60 (rebranded Nissin i60A):

Weight: 300g
Guide Number: 60
TTL Capabilities: Yes
HHS Capabilities: Yes (up to 1/8000 sec)

The Leica SF-60 flash is an advanced flash option that boasts Nissin technology, making it a reliable and high-quality option for Leica Q2 users. It uses four AA batteries, and it has a fast charge time of just over 2 seconds, with recharging to anything below 1/2 power being almost instantaneous. The flash is significantly larger than other options, but it is beautifully made and packed with features.

One notable feature of the Leica SF-60 flash is its ability to downpower all the way to 1/256 full power, making it an incredibly versatile option. It also has multiple modes, including an automatic and TTL mode, and a zoom for the light source that ranges from 16 - 200mm, allowing for more concentrated lighting when needed. In addition, it can function as a video light source due to its built-in constant light.

During my testing, I found that the Leica SF-60 flash worked very reliably in manual, TTL, and off-camera flash modes (with the SF C1 controller). The TTL mode worked exceptionally well both on and off-camera, and after some learning and testing, I found the results to be truly wonderful.

The main drawbacks of the Leica SF-60 flash are its size and price. It is significantly larger than other options, and it is one of the most expensive flashes on the market at $675 USD brand new or about $450 USD used. However, if size and price are not a concern, I highly recommend this high-end flash option for Leica Q2 users.

Another super cool thing about the Leica SF-60 flash being a rebranded Nissin i60A is that you can pair the SF C1 with the original Nissin i60A units (ones with updated firmware for Leica). This combination gives you TTL and HSS features for off camera flash shooting, which is important for some photographers. Additionally, the Nissin i60A units cost about half or less than the price of the SF-60, making them a super attractive option, especially if you need multiple units. Keep in mind that the Nissin i60A units won’t have the Leica-specific interface (for on camera flash shooting), but they will offer the same features and performance at a lower price point for off camera flash photography.

I have recently placed an order for the Nissin i60A flash, and I am excited to conduct an extensive testing with multiple off camera flashes in TTL mode using the SF C1 controller. This will allow me to further explore the capabilities of the Leica Q2 system with off-camera flash setups, and it is an area that deserves its own article due to its complexity. I will share my findings and experience with the Nissin i60A flash and the SF C1 controller in a future article. In the meantime, I hope that the information shared in this article will help you make an informed decision when choosing a flash for your Leica Q2.

Leica Q2 with Leica SF-60 (Nissin i60A)

Leica Q2 with Leica SF-60 (Nissin i60A)

Summary

Choosing the right flash for your Leica Q2 can be a daunting task with so many options available on the market. However, through my testing and research, I have found a few flashes that I would highly recommend. The Fujifilm EF-X20 is a great compact option for those who want a flash that seamlessly integrates with the Leica Q2. The Godox Lux Junior is a solid budget-friendly option that offers fast recharge time and manual control. The LightPix Labs FlashQ Q20II is a versatile and affordable option that also offers off-camera flash capabilities. Lastly, the Leica SF-60 is an advanced flash that provides TTL and HSS capabilities with the Leica Q2, though it comes with a higher price tag.

Overall, the right flash for your Leica Q2 will depend on your specific needs, budget, and shooting style. It’s important to note that everyone’s needs and preferences are different, so it’s important to do your own research and test out different options before making a final decision. Additionally, there are other Leica flashes on the market, such as the SF-24D, SF-40, and SF-64 (I will be reviewing them soon), that may also be worth considering.

I hope this article has provided some helpful insight and guidance in making your decision. Feel free to drop a comment below if you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences with using flashes on the Leica Q2. I am constantly researching and testing more flash options, so if you have any suggestions for other resources or flashes to test out, please let me know in the comments. I appreciate your input and look forward to continuing the discussion!

Blog: Lens Odyssey

Flash Photography with Leica Q/Q2