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04/11/2006 11:02:17 AM · #1 |
Hi,
Can anyone send me a link (or the name of a book) to somewhere that would help me figure out different flash types? I have a Canon XT and three lenses, and want to buy an external flash, as I see the internal one is not that great for more than snapshots. I wanna see which one would be the best for me (I'm thinking of getting into wedding, so that would be one use, plus I like taking portraits), but I honestly know NOTHING about them.
So I just wanna learn right now. :)
Thanks a lot!
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04/11/2006 11:08:35 AM · #2 |
Here's the Canon site for the EX series flashes.
//consumer.usa.canon.com/ir/controller?act=ProductCatIndexAct&fcategoryid=141
Even though they can be pricy, I would recommend staying with the Canon line mainly because you own a Canon.
I've owned other brands, and get so pissed for one reason or another, that IMHO would be solved by staying closer to home.
-Rick
Message edited by author 2006-04-11 11:08:49. |
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04/11/2006 11:13:07 AM · #3 |
Can't point you to a book but I just worked with my local camera shop to make a decision.
For me, the choices were between the 430ex and the 580ex. The 580 has slightly more power and can function as a "master"....so, if you know you're going to do studio-type work with slave units that might be a good choice. I went with the 430 because I don't need slave units at this point and don't anticipate needing them soon. Later, the 430 can be used as a slave. It's sweet...swivels every which way, has a built-in diffuser, and has TTL (through the lens) metering, self-focusing, manual controls---fully coordinates with my camera's settings. (I still have much to learn about it but so far, so good!)
The 420ex has less functionality and you might want to avoid it...even though they can be bought used for less. (I don't think they're manufacturing them anymore--the 430 replaced that model.)
Other considerations:
Will you want an off-camera mount? ($40-???)
If so, you will also want a flash cord, too. ($60-80)
Hope that helps.
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04/11/2006 11:29:35 AM · #4 |
Do you think a 580 would be too large for an XT with a battery grip?
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04/11/2006 11:34:27 AM · #5 |
Originally posted by gloda:
Do you think a 580 would be too large for an XT with a battery grip? |
That's another reason I went with the 430....it's lighter. Most of the weight is in the 4 AA batteries it takes...the unit uses its own power source. (Which reminds me, I need to buy some rechargeable NiMh's...no battery pack available for the 430 that I'm aware of...don't know if that's a feature for the 580.)
Weight is a good consideration. I don't have a battery grip so I don't know. It probably helps balance the heavier flash unit, though..... ;-)
I'd say, if you can, take the camera to a retail outlet and try everything together. |
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04/11/2006 11:54:56 AM · #6 |
I'm in the same boat as you and posted this same question last week. I got some input, did some research and decided on this Sigma flash. It is comparable to the 580EX but a hell of a lot cheaper. The general concensus is that the 580EX is a bit overpriced when you compare it to the 550EX. I personally am no expert so I figured I would go with the Sigma to give me a decent quality starter flash and when I learn more I may gravitate towards a higher end flash or I may just go straight to Alien Bees. The money I saved did put me a little closer to gettin' those AB's though.
My $0.02 USD |
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