Flash Dilemma

[Vinnyvagus]

OK i'm new to the whole DSLR thing and purchased my 450D kit only a couple of months ago. I've been using it quite a bit though as I'm enjoying this new found hobby. Now though I am looking at flash photography in more detail and realise the built in 450D flash is not the best and so I have read many articles and reviews on what flash to get and so now I have to make a decision on which one to purchase.

I am considering either the 430 EX II or the 580 EX II. Of course the 580 has more power and more features than the 430 but also comes with a higher price tag.

My problem is deciding if i should go straight in for the 580 EX II or start off with the 480 EX II?

I'm hoping to get into off camera flash photography at some point and so understand the 580 can act as a master (which the 430 can't) so if I get another flash in the future, the 580 could be useful in this aspect.

Saying that I know I can get a radio transmitter for my camera and then just use the 430 on the stand...

Arrghh... :shrug: just not sure which to get first so what do you all think?

Is the 580 EX II over kill for someone at my level and so will the 430 EX II be sufficient for me or is it best to go straight in for the 580 EX II?

Thanks in advance for your opionions and advise...

 

[fezzr]

The Power you probably wont notice, until you get good with the flash.

The master transmitter doesn't matter matter until you have two, if you get 580 now and never get a second the transmitter is useless, in this respect your better off getting the 430 now and a 580 later. Less initial outlay for something you dont even know if you'll use.

As for price, if you pick one up second hand here or ebay, then unless the exchange rate changes dramatically then you wont loose money if you come to sell again. Second hand prices on the whole are very solid.