what sort of light output do camera flashes have (lumens would be my preferred unit)?

Question

i'm thinking of three or four particular types: phone cameras, disposable cameras, older cameras that use one-time flash cubes, and older cameras that have an integral flash (they can often be found at thrift shops). is there a range of light ouputs? how broad is it, if so? are there different wavelengths of light? are flash cubes still even available? essentially, i'm looking for the cheapest brightest flash (reusable'd be nice), in a hand held, or smaller, size. thanks!

Answer 1

Consider a SunPak DS-20, which is $35.00 at http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=330596&is=REG&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation

I don't know the output, but it is re-usable and runs on "AA" batteries. The only thing I do NOT know if there is a button to manually fire the flash. The Sunpak web site does not have any copy posted on this item.

There are over 100 Sunpak flashes on eBay, so you can find almost anything you want there.

If you want CHEAP, check out http://cgi.ebay.com/Sunpak-Digital-Flash_W0QQitemZ270033783222QQihZ017QQcategoryZ48515QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem on eBay. You can also ask the seller before you bid if there is a manual fire button.