Another flash question

topcatproduction

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Hello, I am getting there with my ideal kit now, just the 2 expensive lenses left to buy though :'(

It is my birthday in a couple of weeks and the lenses I still want are too expensive (unfortunately!!!) and the only other kit I can think of that I need is a flash! I already have a Yongnuo YN460 which is great but of course only manual. It is extremely bright and easy to use plus it has a built in optical trigger (so makes a great slave) but I would like something with ETTL as my main flash. I'd like a 580ex but too expensive for me to justify, I dont do a lot of flash photography but its invaluable when dim inside, and a manual is too slow and trial and error.

Any suggestions up to the £200ish mark? Something that will last!
 
which lens r you talking about, "too expensive (unfortunately!!!)"?
 
I just bought a Canon 430 EX II from Kerso for less than 200. Full eTTL. Not quite as high a guide number as the 580, and can't be a eTTL master but that doesn't matter if you only have one flash.

It would be a good option for you. Then when you can afford the 580 one day you'll 430 will be a good eTTL slave. In the meanwhile your existing flash may work as an optical slave but you'll have to shoot manual because the 430 pre flash may trigger your optical slave prematurely.

If you see what I mean.
 
What about 2nd hand, that money will get you a decent 550ex which acts as a master/slave.

Matt
 
which lens r you talking about, "too expensive (unfortunately!!!)"?

Canon 17-55 and Tokina 11-16, 2 more ideal lenses for me but also not cheap!!!

I just bought a Canon 430 EX II from Kerso for less than 200. Full eTTL. Not quite as high a guide number as the 580, and can't be a eTTL master but that doesn't matter if you only have one flash.

It would be a good option for you. Then when you can afford the 580 one day you'll 430 will be a good eTTL slave. In the meanwhile your existing flash may work as an optical slave but you'll have to shoot manual because the 430 pre flash may trigger your optical slave prematurely.

If you see what I mean.

The YN460 has 2 slave modes- I think 1 allows for pre-flash which will be very handy. Everyone seems to rate the 430 down because the 580 is bigger and better- but is it really that much worse?!!

What about 2nd hand, that money will get you a decent 550ex which acts as a master/slave.

Matt

I have no problems with buying second hand gear, is the 550ex ETTL though?
 
The YN460 has 2 slave modes- I think 1 allows for pre-flash which will be very handy. Everyone seems to rate the 430 down because the 580 is bigger and better- but is it really that much worse?!!

I think you are going into the purchase with eyes open and won't regret it!

I have no problems with buying second hand gear, is the 550ex ETTL though?
Yes. Excellent Canon flash guide here.
 
Ever thought about the nissin di866. Got mine a couple of weeks ago and am finding my feet with it, can act a master, wireless and cost less than £200
 
Definitely the 430 EX II, As freester said, around £200 from Kerso.

I have both the 580 & 430, and the 430 generally covers most of my needs, and it's lighter more compact to carry around.
 
Is the 550ex still in production? From a quick review I read it is bigger than the 580?! How does that numbering system work then?! :lol:

I guess its between the 550ex and 430ex then, if the 550ex is older I'm guessing there wont be so much difference between it and the 430?
 
...Everyone seems to rate the 430 down because the 580 is bigger and better- but is it really that much worse...

I've never seen a poor review or rating of the 430EX... It's an exceptionally capable unit that does exactly what you'd expect of it and then some. Prices are generally around the £200 mark (high street shops are a little dearer) so it falls within your budget. :)

If you're serious about getting a flash, have a look for a secondhand 430EX on here or go and get a 430EXII...

Si
 
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