What’s Your Preference?

luv2farmnd · #1 (**permalink**) 10-09-2009, 06:37 AM

Im lookin to buy a flash for my digital Cannon Rebel XT but there is few different ones out there so just not sure what to buy at this time. I take alot of pics and is about time to break down and buy one.
Any suggestions for what to buy?

Thanks,

nathanbarlow · #2 (**permalink**) 10-09-2009, 09:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by luv2farmnd

Im lookin to buy a flash for my digital Cannon Rebel XT

wow you have a cannon? hows the ergonomics on that thing?

sarcasm aside, do you use the onboard flash at all? if not, I would suggest you use that and see if you really 'need' a flash. I would suggest going with a nikon flash, as I have heard that they have the neccesary connections to beable to use it off camera without resorting to adpaters or pocket wizards. As far as Im aware, they work on any camera, but not a cannon (but Canon's work with them)

strobist.com is a good place to start - they have a flash 101 section for newbs like yourself. (i just finished reading it all, so no longer a newb lol jks)

nswphotos · #3 (**permalink**) 10-09-2009, 10:05 AM

I use the Speedlite 430EX II which has a powerful flash (141 ft./43m at ISO 100) with a fast recycling time. Its great for most events, I bought it just as they introduced the new 580 EX11 so it was cheap in comparison and does all I care to use it for! Do some homework on the differences it all depends on your budget! Just make sure you get the recycle batteries x 2 lots as you might need them if your doing alot of night work!

inkista · #4 (**permalink**) 10-09-2009, 10:14 PM

What do you want the flash for? Do you want it on-camera for bounce work? Or do you want an off-camera strobe for studio lighting work?

If you want an on-camera flash, and if you can afford it, the 580EXII is your best choice, since it has all the bells & whistles of the latest features, swivels the full 360° and has the most power output. It can also be used as a master unit with Canon's infrared wireless signalling scheme for off-camera work, has a PC socket, and an auto-thyristor mode, plus all the eTTL goodness you want.

Most people can't afford it. In that case, in terms of decreasing dollar amounts, looking for a used 580EX, a used 550EX, a new 430EXII, or used 430EX would be worthwhile.

You could go with an eTTL-capable Sigma Super if you really want to spend less, but I've heard their menu systems are kind of a mess, and you don't necessarily save that much.

If, however, you never plan on putting the flash on the hotshoe and plan to work them off-camera Strobist-style, then you can go for a cheap manual flash, like a used Nikon SB-24/26/28, LumoPro LP120, or Cactus KF36 (aka the erstwhile Vivitar 285HV). They'll work just as well with cheap non-TTL capable radio triggers, and over all the features you want of swivel, tilt, and manual power control. The output's a little lower than you'd get from a Canon EX speedlite, and on-camera they're not nearly as usable, but then, they're a lot less expensive.

I actually wouldn't recommend going to the Strobist first straightaway. Going to Planet Neil to learn about on-camera flash before going for the off-camera variety of lighting is a good way to ground yourself in the basics of flash photography first.

guycates · #5 (**permalink**) 10-09-2009, 10:52 PM

I use a Quantary QDC 900WA. It is made to work on a canon. Its ttl compatable. IT cost $150 a couple years ago an works great for me. google it you will see more info

Guy

luv2farmnd · #6 (**permalink**) 10-10-2009, 02:10 PM

I just use my camera for here and there around the farm, have taken a wedding with it last summer for friend but im learning everything.. I use the built in flash that is on it but for some of those inside shots ya just need a flash it seems.
Im not into any studios or anything like that alot of outside and here and there for now just for fun but major learning with it all and Im excited.

That 580EXII is the one I have been keeping eye on but will see..

These boards are amazing and im tryin to take in as much as I can for when time allows me since we are still busy tryin to get our crops off in between rain/snow showers..

Thanks again..

Samanax · #7 (**permalink**) 10-10-2009, 05:50 PM

How much were you looking to spend? All of the flashes listed here are compatible with your Canon EOS Rebel XT. Prices range from $35 to $1,273.50.

Look for a flash that has a swivel/bounce head so you have better control of the light.

luv2farmnd · #8 (**permalink**) 10-11-2009, 03:26 PM

Thanks Samanax for the info..will check it out here later...

yes, I want a swivel mount for my camera. Am thinkin around 200.00 to 500.00 maybe in that range.. Appreciate all the advice...