Which Flash

[AndrewA123]

I'm slowly (not slowly enough for my other half) building up my DSLR equipment, I've so far got the following kit,

Canon EOS 400D
Canon 50mm F1.8
Canon 17-85mm IS F4/5.6
Canon 70-300mm IS F4/5.6
Various filters etc.

I'm now looking for advice on which flash i should be looking for. I don't mind buying second hand so long as the quality and condition is good. But with the lenses I knew what i wanted, where I intended to use each, etc. however with a flash, I'm somewhat clueless, hence the reason for this post.

My main use for this would be general family events and possibly the occasional family group shot.

Any reccomendations would be great, I haven't set a budget yet, although I do not want to spend a great deal unless i really need to.

[BOM]

I've just picked up a second hand Canon 550ex speedlight for £50, its awesome, loads of functions, flash durations, pulses, ETTI, and you can use it as a master flash.

I also have a few cheapo flashguns that I use for playing with, picked them up a fiver each at car boot sales.

[stylgeo]

I would suggest to go for the Sigma EF-500 DG SUPER (not the ST version) or the EF-530. Basically same functions as the Canon Equivalents, with a few minor differences, but for about half the price. I have one and it's great!

[cherryrig]

Get a Canon flash or even (dare I say it) an old Nikon flash. SB-24, SB-25, SB-26 etc. They work just as well as the newer flashes but at a much lower price. Quite a few people pick the Nikon flash over the Canon one just because it's easier to use.