Flash Suggestions

[kerriv]

I have been taking a lot of photos with my new XTi and have come to realize that I need to get a flash. I have looked at the Canon Speedlites and like the 430ex. However, I wonder if it's more than I need. I want a bounce flash, but I doubt I will use all the options available on it (mainly cuz I don't understand them). My question is are there third party options available that work well with the XTi.

Thanks,

Kerri

[aparmley]

I have been taking a lot of photos with my new XTi and have come to realize that I need to get a flash. I have looked at the Canon Speedlites and like the 430ex. However, I wonder if it's more than I need. I want a bounce flash, but I doubt I will use all the options available on it (mainly cuz I don't understand them). My question is are there third party options available that work well with the XTi.

Thanks,

Kerri

Hi Kerri

I really think its in your best interest to at the least pick up a Canon 430EX. You can do a search on Sigma flashes and read what turns up, but I honestly believe if you can look past the price tag, the 430 EX will serve you very well.

[Plan-B]

I thought the exact same thing after I bought my XT. I also wanted to be able to bounce which meant the cheaper 220EX was out of the question. I kept thinking that the features the 430EX offered were over my head and started looking at aftermarket units. In the end, I ponied up for the 430EX and haven't regretted it since. You'll eventually learn what the different functions do (I hadn't the slightest clue what 2nd curtain sync was). In hindsight, I'm glad I bought a flash that I could grow into rather than something I need to turn around try and sell now.

[cdifoto]

The 430EX only sounds complicated in the ads. There's really no obligation to use every single feature.

Once you get the hang of flash in general, the 430EX will feel like a natural extention. Canon's Speedlites are also built sturdier than most other flashes I've seen (aside from Nikon's). Definitely worth the few extra bucks.