Yes, another 'What Flash?' Topic.

[foodpoison]

Basically, I've been looking to get a flashgun of some sort.
I've been asked to do a photoshoot for a band, and I feel now is the time to purchase a flashgun.
I'm not buying it solely for this photoshoot, because there are other circumstances that I'll be using it.

Only problem is, I don't really have a clue about flashguns.
I would like to spend less than about £110, but I want it to be able to do the bog standard things.

But to be honest, I don't know what the bog standard things are.
I've heard of bounce and fill flash, but I don't know what else there is.

So, finally, the questions.
1. What flash would you recommend for -£110?
2. Can you give me a rundown of what to look for in a flash?

Cheers!

[wez130]

for that budget, your best bet is a canon EX430 - which is alright, you'll probably find a used 580EX Mk1 within budget which is a great flash, alternatively, there's the sigma 500 flash but i don't know what they go for. See what they go for on ebay.

[Canon Bob]

Hi,
Sorry for the slow reply....hope it's not too late.

There are several things you need to consider...especially as you're talking about sports and band shots......

Each flash unit has a "Guide number". This represents the distance in metres that the flash will illuminate. The equation as to what you need is fairly simple;

Guide number / distance = f.stop roughly speaking

You would need to factor your current lenses into the equation to see if they have apertures wide enough to fit the bill.
Eg..... I believe the 430EX has a GN of 43. Therefore you'd need an f/1 lens for correct exposure at 43m or an f/2 lens at 21.5m etc etc. These are, of course, minima and all calc's assume ISO 100 which means you can bump up the ISO to use a slower lens or aperture setting.

Only the basics there but it will show you where to research.

Bob