Long time amateur getting back into it: what should I do about a flash setup?

[Mother Goose]

Hi!

In the mid and late 2000s, I had gotten into photography, like a lot of prosumer amateurs. I wisely took a step back from online gear discussions. More recently with the birth and raising of my daughter, I have been enjoying photography again. A lot has changed in terms of software and post-processing. My knowledge is about 15+ years out of date.

I'm asking for advice about what to do about two Canon flashes I have: a 430EX 2 and a 420EX. The truth is that I never got into flash photography (don't ask why I have two!) but I have myself on occasion used it (holiday family portraits and group shots).

I'm wondering, for my purpose case, which is very occasional usage, whether you can please make a recommendation on what I should do. My interest is mainly to have the capability of doing nice group and individual shots in poorly-lit locations, setting up one or two flashes on stands.

My understanding is that the cheapest way to proceed is to get a used Canon ST-E2 (£50-60) which would then allow me to use the flashes I already have as slaves.

Is that right?

I guess I can also sell the flashes. I do not use them more than a handful of times a year, but as long as this does not cost me more than, say £100, I am fine to keep them to learn more about the hobby.

My main fear is that in the 15 years since, many very good alternatives exist, such as Godox flash units. These allow off camera and radio-triggered flashes. I do not want to throw even more money to Canon.

Thank you for your help.

 

[Phil V]

Simple answer:
You can still use what you have, it requires line of sight and doesn’t work outside or over large distances.
To upgrade to radio, the easy way is to buy 2 Godox x1r-c and a xpro c trigger. Maybe a tad over a hundred?

But more importantly (always) is modifying that light to make it pleasant, so stands brackets and brollies as a minimum.