FLASH CHOICE ?

[alexam]

I would appreciate guidance of suitable flash units.

I am considering the EOS 7D as my main camera and with it's flash sync capability, would it be acceptable to get the EX 430 compared with the 580 for off camera flash, or is the extra power better?
Thanks

Malcolm.

 

[magicaxeman]

The EX 430 is fine for general use

 

[alexam]

Thanks Ian. I appreciate that the EX 430 would be OK, but what advantage would there be with the 580, other than the extra power? My goal would eventually be to have two off camera units, but I am new to this and would appreciate your advice as you obviously have such a set up already.

Malcolm

 

[arad85]

See the last few paras of: http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-580EX-II-Speedlite-Flash-Review.aspx

There's also a review of the 430EXII on there too....

 

[LongLensPhotography]

580EX has double power. 580EX can be on camera, master or slave, 430EX can be only on camera or slave. Depending on your requirements it is a good flash.

 

[alexam]

Thanks guys,
I am beginning to understand more as we go. So.......... if I had a couple of 430's, could they both be synced by the EOS 7D camera, or would I need something else in addition to act as the Comander. Also could they be flashing at different power and do they need to be line of sight or not?

Malcolm

 

[vaizki]

Thanks guys,
I am beginning to understand more as we go. So.......... if I had a couple of 430's, could they both be synced by the EOS 7D camera, or would I need something else in addition to act as the Comander. Also could they be flashing at different power and do they need to be line of sight or not?

Sync 2 flashes by 7D commander: yes, actually 3 groups (A,B,C) each of which can include many flashes. You can also add the camera's own flash.
Asymmetric power: yes, up to 8:1 ratio for 2 groups, third group is a bit "special" (never used it)
Line of sight: yes and no, it will reflect around corners but a 580ex as commander would probably do a much better job.

Of course this is all eTTL II shooting. If you go manual, you can set up as many flashes as you want at different power settings and just radio trigger them through walls etc (separate cheap triggers needed)

 

[arad85]

f you go manual, you can set up as many flashes as you want at different power settings and just radio trigger them through walls etc (separate cheap triggers needed)

... and then you may find that the higher power and finer levels of adjustments (you can adust in 1/3 stops I think) of the 580 may be preferable.

 

[alexam]

Hi Jukka & Andy,

many thanks for the info, just what I was looking for and now I can do a little more research with other, static lighting.

My thoughts are to be able to arrange a smallish 'set' in one of our rooms at home and get into some well lit portrait photography. I have a couple of good looking grand daughters (no, honest, they are 'model-like') and feel sure that I could encourage some others as 'free' models. Plus some other subject ideas that I am keen to try out.

The next step is also to look at some low cost static lights/spots and reflectors, umbrellas, backdrops etc - any ideas.

I appreciate your help.

Malcolm A