one 430 canon or multiple off brand with triggers

[mikeyri]

Hi:

I posted this question elsewhere on the internet but I am looking for opinions.

I am conflicted (as usual). I am from the video world and want to do some supplimental photo work after sessions for promo work and such. I've tried to use my existing hot lights and got frustrated.
I have a Canon 400D and also quickly realized the on camera flash is not up to task. I realize I need flash. I've done some research here but I would like a few opinions. I am starting out and only have about $300.

While I have been considering a 430 speedlite (used $300) I am of the opinion its more important to get the flash OFF the camera. I realize I can use a PC cord for this but I dunno, in the end its only one flash.

I was thinking of using cowboystudio or cactus v4 triggers and a few used vivitar or sunpak flashes.

Will this work? Is it difficult to learn? Maybe I should start with a 430 and a PC cord to retain the canon technology? I do instructional videos using one or two models/actors so I guess I'm looking for portait type lighting, half body minimum. That seems like a lot of light to ask from one flash.

It can't be as easy as a few used $100 flashes with a few cheap radio triggers.

OK guys can you help a newbie!

[oldwolf]

Check out strobist.com. They'll have lots of info on off camera flash for you.

For $300 you can get a nice little kit for off camera flash use from mpex.com. Check out their strobist kits.

If you know you're going to use off camera flash then I'd suggest reading up on it and diving in. With that being said, I first bought a 430EX and every flash after that was a Vivitar 285HV for under $100 each. The gear I take on location is the 430 and 2 - 285 with cybersyncs to trigger them. Works fine for me. I even mix those speedlites into my studio set up once in a while as well.

[inkista]

If you know you're never going to use the flash on-camera, and you can only afford low-cost triggering methods, then yes, you can get away with all manual flashes.

The main reason(s) to go for a Canon EX speedlight would be if you wanted the extra function that comes with on-camera use (or with more expensive triggering options). The extra functions that a Canon EX can get for you are eTTL (automatically setting the flash power via through-the-lens metering), high-speed sync (being able to use a shutter speed faster than your camera body's max. sync speed, typically 1/200s or 1/250s), remote commanding (i.e., being able to change the power level of a remote flash from the camera, rather than having to walk up to the flash and change it--useful if you go off-camera and put the flash in a hard-to-reach area), and camera menu control (i.e., being able to make the settings on the flash from the camera's LCD, rather than the flash's LCD).

If you don't need any of that, then go manual with a Lumopro LP160 or Yongnuo YN-560. (Don't recommend the Vivitar 285HV: proprietary sync port, no 1/8 power setting, no swivel).

On-camera use of a speedlight, however, tends to be simpler and faster (if more limited) than an off-camera setup, and you can always bounce. My general recommendation for folks getting their first flash is to get an OEM flash as your first, because it can typically be used both on- and off- camera, so you aren't limited in your options, and then for additional flashes for off-camera usage, think about the cheapie manuals.

But if you're looking solely at studio setups, then skipping the EXs altogether might be a better way to go, simply because you can afford more lights.

If you do decide you want the Canon bells'n'whistles, I'll also say that you'd probably get more bang for your 300 bucks by going with a used 580EX (mark I) than a 430EX II. You'll lose camera menu control of the flash, but you'll have more power and 360° swivel for bouncing.

[oldwolf]

Originally Posted by inkista

If you don't need any of that, then go manual with a Lumopro LP160 or Yongnuo YN-560. (Don't recommend the Vivitar 285HV: proprietary sync port, no 1/8 power setting, no swivel).

Listen to inki's advice about the LP160. If they had those back when I purchased my 285HV then I would have purchased them. I'm not buying them now because I can make do with what I've got. When a 285HV dies then I'm replacing it with the LP160 or whatever model they're up to at that point in time.

[bhursey]

I second the LP160.. Also I would avoid cowboy triggers at all cost.. The cactus v5 now has been released also..

Gadget Infinity :: Digital Camera :: Flash Trigger :: Wireless Trigger :: Cactus Wireless Flash Transceiver V5 Duo

I tested them and wrote a review on it..

Cactus V5 Duo Review – Brian Hursey Photography