Canon Flash advice

[kymber]

I've had my Canon XTi for close to 4 years now, and am now ready to dive into broadening my skill into utilizing flash and lighting.

I'm not willing to make a huge investment (up to $200?) at this point and would like to purchase something used. I need some advice on a good middle of the road external flash to get me started.

What are your suggestions?

Thanks!

[inkista]

How do you plan to use the flash? On or off camera (or both)? Are you planning on using it in a studio situation? Or run'n'gun event shooting (e.g., weddings)?

[kymber]

on camera definitely, at first and I would say mostly event type shooting, but would like for it to be versatile enough that I could possibly expand to off camera later once I learn a little more about flash photography.
Does such an animal exist?

[oldwolf]

Try to find a used 430EX or try this one:

Amazon.com: Vivitar DF383 Digital TTL Shoe Mount Power Zoom /Swivel /Bounce Auto-Focus Flash for Canon TTL, Guide Number…

[moumou]

Amazon.com: Vivitar DF383 Digital TTL Shoe Mount Power Zoom /Swivel /Bounce Auto-Focus Flash for Canon TTL, Guide Number…

[kymber]

Thanks for the advice! Where are the best places to look for used lenses? I noticed there is a forum for buying and selling here on DPS. Anymore I should check?

I will definitely be checking the forums for lighting advice too.

[inkista]

I'm with oldwolf: a used 430EX or 430EXII is likely to be your best bet with your budget and intended use. Event run'n'gun & on-camera means you definitely want a speedlight with e-TTL capability. And that's exactly the kind of functionality that tends to be a wee bit iffier with 3rd-party flashes. You may get a lower pricetag, but the build quality, realiability, copy variance, and future compatibility are always going to be a bit more suspect than with Canon branded stuff.

As for used gear, the Fredmiranda.com board's B&S board has a great reputation, and online dealers like keh.com, B&H, and Adorama all sell used equipment with decent return policies.

[kymber]

Thanks for all that info ink! I actually looked at the 430EXII on Amazon.