While it obviously varies from camera to camera, I've found that the built in flash is sufficient for simple close up shots, but not much more than that. A good flash gives you a lot of versatility. You can adjust the number of flashes, the frequency, and fill lighting on the whole is much better. Having a good flash on hand is always a good idea, but not always necessary. Typically, I use the flash when I need a higher shutter speed, and an increased aperture value, and yield too dark an image otherwise. A worthwhile flash, will usually run about 500 bucks, but you get what you pay for. If you take a lot of pictures in low light conditions, or have moving subjects, then I'd say its definitely a good purchase.
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