Canon Speedlight Flashes

[liam1986ukuk]

Hi Guys,

just wondering what the main differances are between a Canon 420EX and a Canon 580EX MKII? i have the 420EX at the moment.... i want to do some off camera flash photos, whats the best way of doing it without using wires??

 

[HoppyUK]

Hi Guys,

just wondering what the main differances are between a Canon 420EX and a Canon 580EX MKII? i have the 420EX at the moment.... i want to do some off camera flash photos, whats the best way of doing it without using wires??

The best way is quite a big question, but the easiest way for sure is to trigger the 420EX off your 7D's master pop-up.

580EX is a much newer gun, more powerful and has master controller capability (as your 7D does). Lots of other more minor differences.

 

[ZoneV]

I have a 420EX and whilst it's a decent unit, its biggest drawback is the lack of manual control (TTL only) which is a major drawback when wanting to use it creatively.

Many people use cheaper manual (non-TTL) 3rd party flash units (such as Yongnuo) with cheap rf602 or 603 triggers for OCF with great success.

 

[Photodiva]

Hi. I have a Canon STE2 which seems to work a treat with Canon flashes. I've also used third party makes. I have a 430EXII and a 580EX.

 

[Phil V]

Hi. I have a Canon STE2 which seems to work a treat with Canon flashes. I've also used third party makes. I have a 430EXII and a 580EX.

There's no need for the STE2 with a 7d, which effectively has one built in.

The biggest problem with the older 420ex is that it'll only work remotely with ETTL from the camera.

The 580exII is expensive and cheaper options are a second hand 550ex or the Nissin Di866 which both have similar spec / power. The 580 has been replaced by a 600 available in 2 flavours the really expensive one has a radio trigger built in.

To go wireless you have options.

• Use your cameras remote flash ability (ETTL only) IR is not so good outdoors in good light but works great over shart distances indoors.
• Get a commander flash or 2 (as above) and then you can use ETTL or Manual
• Get some cheap wireless triggers and cheap manual flashes you can go Manual and wireless over longer distances more reliably.
• Pocketwizard TT1 and TT5 allow ETTL and Manual wireless using radio - great option but costly. There's a cheaper clone version but I can't remember the name. You can also use them as straight Manual triggers for studio flash later.

I've got the Pocketwizards, my next flashguns will probably be Nissin's - I have no desire to go with the 580's they are far too expensive IMO for the gains.