Which flash unit?

matt · #1 19-01-2009, 08:23 PM

Am thinking about adding a flash unit to my DSLR set-up and was wondering which one/s you folks would recommend I take a look at.

It will be for use with my Canon 40D.

I know a lot will depend on how much I'm willing to spend etc...but a few suggestions would be most welcome.

Thanks.

iceman (Mike) · #2 19-01-2009, 08:27 PM

Watching this thread with interest.. i'm in the same boat, and would like to buy a flash unit for my 20D..

However I think the Speedlite flashes are $400-$600. I'm not sure which is best or if there's anything cheaper that still does a good job.

Octane (Humayun) · #3 19-01-2009, 08:58 PM

Stick with Canon.

The 580EX II will be around, or a bit under, $600.

Regards,
Humayun

acropolite (Phil) · #4 19-01-2009, 08:59 PM

I was about to say the same, here's a review of the 580 EX.

troypiggo (Troy) · #5 20-01-2009, 12:55 PM

The answer depends what you want to do with the flash and what you want to shoot with it. You'll need to consider how much flash power you'll need (know the term "guide numbers"); whether you'll want to shoot with the flash off-camera via a chord or remote; whether you'll be getting more flashes in future to have a multiple flash setup; if you're wanting to get the flash off-camera, do you want to maintain ETTL capability or are you happy to shoot manual flash; and finally what is your budget?

If you can answer some of the above, I might be able to give some options based on my limited understanding.

Phil · #6 20-01-2009, 05:48 PM

I have the 580EX and it is a very good flash. I would highly recommend it.
Phil

troypiggo (Troy) · #7 20-01-2009, 06:09 PM

It is a very good flash (I have the 580EXII and 430EX), but it may be overkill for what he wants/needs/can afford. That's why I was asking the questions I did.

matt · #8 20-01-2009, 06:16 PM

Just looking for general recommendations.

I can afford a 580EX.

I'm a little beyond happy snaps...so let's assume I "need/want" a flash this good

Thanks Phil, Phil and Humayun.

troypiggo (Troy) · #9 20-01-2009, 06:33 PM

Well then, if you can afford the 580EXII - go for it

It's got the power, good swivel head, ETTL master capability, PC sync port if you ever want to radio slave it, build quality etc.

As for where to get it from, I've found http://d-d-photographics.com.au to be one of the cheaper Aus based online shops. Think they've got a store here in Bris now, too. Might save you postage costs if you can pick up.

But usually I find cheapest option is to buy from http://www.bhphotovideo.com/ or http://www.adorama.com/ or even amazon in the US. Even with the terrible exchange rate at the moment and slightly higher postage costs, you can still save a worthwhile amount.

Benny L (Ben) · #10 20-01-2009, 06:38 PM

get the 580EX it's one of the best flashes going around for under $1000.. also if you can, get a Gary Fong light-sphere:

http://store.garyfonginc.com/liiido.html

troypiggo (Troy) · #11 20-01-2009, 06:48 PM

I've got a Chinese knock-off of the Fong. Even at a fraction of the cost of the original, it was a complete waste of money. If someone is willing to pay the postage, they can have mine for free. I prefer to bounce flash these days.

But this is a whole other debate that's OT for matt.