Flash Gun Buying Guide

[eshban]

Hi,

I have Canon 7d with 17-55mm f2.8 lens. Now I want to inquire about FLASH GUN.

Personally I like Canon 580EXII, but its cost is US$450+. Some people suggest me to go for cheap flash units from some other brands and they will also work. I need it for Studio, outdoor shoot, events. Now I am confused.

Even If I go for Canon 430EXII which is approximately half the price of 580EXII then may be I feel that why I go for this.

So kindly suggest me that what are the benefits of purchasing Canon 580EXII as compared to the cheap flash guns.
thanks

[BigFuzzy]

I don't mean to be a smart ass, but the benefits of a 580exII is that it's better in every conceivable way than the 430ex or any off brand makes. More light, faster recycling, better sync times, better construction, controls other flashes, more connection to your camera/remote triggers, takes battery pack, the list goes on.

The question I think it more important is whether or not it'll be your only flash? If you're lighting set up will include more than one flash, then you can get away with using multiple cheaper flashes.

If you're only going to have one flash, I always suggest buying the best one you can afford.

Having said that, I currently only own a 430ex (not even the II version) and a Vivitar 285 and I'm doing ok in my opinion. I WILL be buying a 580 soon because I really have to squeeze the most out of all the conditions for the 430 to be good enough for weddings.

If you don't know of the Strobist movement, look into it @ strobist.com

[bhursey]

I second the 580EXII.. I bough a couple of lower powered lights and I ended up getting the 580EXII...

Also you can read up on flashes at Camera Flash Reviews for Speedlites from Yongnuo, Nikon, Nissin, Metz, Canon, Vivitar and Sunpak