Soot In My Flash

[DadOf2]

Ok well it doesn't seem to hurt anything but...

I have a low-end $100 flash unit and I just noticed some soot build-up. What's the deal with this? Has anyone had this problem and is it due to my penny pinching ways and should I drop a dime (or 3000) on a nice flash unit?

You should be able to see it on the right side.

Thanks...

 

[jwkwd]

I have never seen that, but it would seem like it might be on it's way out.

 

[jstuedle]

Some lower end flashes use a cheaper plastic for there diffuser. The flash tube is hot when it fires and will discolor the plastic. Not only is it heat, but radiant energy that makes this discoloration. Some good flashes will show signs of this after thousands of shots as well. It shouldn't harm the image other than making a very small shift in color temp.

 

[DadOf2]

Thanks guys. I appreciate the info. John you've got quite the Nikon collection. I like the rock shots on your site too. Nice work. I like the tone on that gallery.
http://www.pbase.com/jstuedle/rocknroll