| HS Code | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8539510000 | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8539520091 | Doc | 32.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8543708000 | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8543708800 | Doc | 30.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 9006610020 | Doc | 37.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 9006610060 | Doc | 37.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
Macro Ring Flash
A macro ring flash is a specialized flash designed for close-up photography, particularly macrophotography – the art of photographing small subjects at very high magnification. It differs significantly from standard speedlights or on-camera flashes in its construction and application.
Material & Construction
Typically, a macro ring flash consists of a circular flash head that surrounds the objective lens of a camera. The head is comprised of numerous small LED lights or a ring of xenon flash tubes. The housing is usually constructed from durable plastic or metal alloys to withstand repeated use and potential impacts. The flash unit connects to the camera via a hot shoe and often includes a control unit for adjusting flash power and settings. Higher-end models utilize heat sinks and fans to manage thermal output, particularly those employing high-output LEDs.
Purpose
The primary purpose of a macro ring flash is to provide even, shadowless illumination to extremely close subjects. Standard flashes cast harsh shadows when used at close range, obscuring detail. Macro ring flashes aim to eliminate these shadows, revealing textures and intricate features often invisible under normal lighting conditions. They are essential for:
- Scientific photography: Documenting specimens in biology, medicine, and forensic science.
- Product photography: Showcasing small items like jewelry, coins, and electronics.
- Hobbyist photography: Capturing details of insects, flowers, and other small subjects.
- Dental photography: Detailed imaging of teeth and gums.
Function
The flash operates by emitting light directly around the lens axis. This proximity minimizes the distance between the light source and the subject, resulting in:
- Reduced shadow formation: The circular light source wraps around the subject, filling in shadows.
- High detail rendering: Even illumination reveals fine textures and patterns.
- Consistent lighting: Provides stable and predictable light output for repeatable results.
- High color accuracy: Most macro ring flashes offer adjustable color temperatures to match ambient light or specific requirements.
Usage Scenarios
- Close-up of insects: Capturing details of eyes, wings, and exoskeletons.
- Flower photography: Revealing intricate petal structures and pollen details.
- Jewelry photography: Showcasing the brilliance and clarity of gemstones.
- Coin and stamp collecting: Documenting details of surface features and markings.
- Dental imaging: Capturing detailed images of teeth and gums for diagnostic purposes.
- Small electronics repair: Illuminating components during detailed inspection and repair.
Common Types
- LED Macro Ring Flash: Most common type, offering long lifespan, low power consumption, and adjustable color temperature. Power output typically ranges from a few hundred to several thousand lux.
- Xenon Tube Macro Ring Flash: Older technology, providing higher power output but shorter lifespan and higher power consumption. Often requires external power sources.
- Twin Flash: Consists of two small flash heads positioned on either side of the lens, offering more flexible lighting options and the ability to create shadows for added depth.
- Ring Flash Adapters: Allow standard speedlights to be used as a ring flash, offering a more affordable option but typically with reduced performance.
- Fiber Optic Ring Lights: Utilize fiber optics to distribute light evenly around the lens, providing a soft and diffused illumination.
Based on the provided information, a macro ring flash can be classified under the following HS codes:
- 9006610020: Photographic flashlight apparatus and flashbulbs: Discharge lamp (“electronic”) flashlight apparatus Capable of camera mounting: Capable of automatically controlling flash duration. This HS code specifically covers discharge lamp flashlights designed for camera mounting with automatic flash duration control, which aligns with the functionality of a macro ring flash.
- 9006610060: Photographic flashlight apparatus and flashbulbs: Discharge lamp (“electronic”) flashlight apparatus Other. This HS code covers other discharge lamp flashlights not specifically categorized under 9006610020, and could apply to macro ring flashes without automatic flash duration control or those with different features.
Regarding HS code 9006610020 and 9006610060, please note the need to verify whether the apparatus is capable of automatically controlling flash duration, as this distinction impacts the correct HS code selection.