Which Flash: 430EX II or 580EX II

  • Thread starter Thread starter REB
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REB

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I'm slowly getting back into photography now that I've given up working for a living (didn't like it) and I'm looking to add a second flash to my existing system. I currently have a Canon 60D and a 430EX.

Now as you probably know, the 60D supports wireless flash control in that it can control the 430EX remotely. I know the 580EX can do this as well (along with a lot of other things) but as I am only planning to add one more flash for off camera use, should I go with the 430EX II or the 580EX II?

My thoughts are the 430EX II would match the output of my existing 430EX whereas the 580 would be more powerful (I know I can reduce the power). Would the 60D pop-up be sufficient for fill in light given that I'm not doing anything long range (flash wise) and nothing overly fancy in a studio etc?

Cost is not really a factor - it will just decide the size of the bunch of flowers for Mrs REB. :)

Thanks in advance for any advice.
 
REB said:
Cost is not really a factor - it will just decide the size of the bunch of flowers for Mrs REB. :)
Click to expand...

I was raised with the mantra, buy the best you can afford, so that would be a 580EXII
 
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Thanks for the input guys.

I too usually buy the best I can afford but that's not necessarily the best option technically. I must say that I am swaying towards the 580 though.
 
Get the 580 you will get much more versatility and one day you will want the power. When using ettl you won't have to worry about balancing the power with the 430 anyway. Best price seems to be Amazon at £319
 
Al Brum said:
Get the 580 you will get much more versatility and one day you will want the power. When using ettl you won't have to worry about balancing the power with the 430 anyway. Best price seems to be Amazon at £319
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I've done research into pricing and agree with you about Amazon. I'm also keeping a close eye on the classifieds section.

I think it will definitely be the 580 - perhaps. :) It will have to wait until the New Year now though.
 
I got a 580 about 2 months ago when I ordered my 5DMkII and 24-105 f4 L kit and the 580 works brilliantly with my set up. I use it a lot indoors even though the 5D2 works well in low light, but with the flash set normally to E-TTL I get great even coloured shots. Mine cost me £302 off a trusted ebay site (delivered in 2 days) but the price does seem to be climbing a bit now. The same site had them at £399 the other day but around £320-330 seems the norm now.
 
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