Question about Canon flashes.

[Cannibalized]

I have a 20d. I need to eventually get a flash for it.

What makes the 550 better than the 430, for Canon brands?
How does, say, the Sigma 500 compare?
Is there any cheaper alternative to the Canon brands that is just as good?

[Ronald S. Jr.]

Well, as you go up in model number, you go up in available power. The 550 also is more versatile and more "feature packed". I don't know about the Sigma, but I've heard good things. I'm a Canon man, myself. It's personal preference. Best to look up some reviews of the models. I'd bet there'd be comparative review on dpreview. I'll see if I can find something.

[nburwell]

I'm with Ronald on this one. I purely stick with Canon, cause I'm a Canon kind of guy. I guess it really depends on what you're planning on using the flash for. I'm not big on flash photography since I primarily shoot landscapes, so the 430ex (or even 420ex) is ideal for me. Although when I shot my friends brother's wedding three weeks ago, I wish I had the power of the 580ex. Then again, I don't regret purchasing the 430ex at all.

[TX_Gulf_Coast]

I agree and dissagree. LOL (Woudln't you know it.) I own 2-580EX flashes and use them alot. However, my preference for a flash at a wedding or anytime exposure is critical - Quantum T5D. That is due to ETTL or actually, any TTL flash system not being very reliable. I meter my T5D and I know what the exposure is for the zones before I start and I usually get close to 98% correct on my exposure using this system.

All that being said, the 580EX has a darn good rate of giving correct exposure in most situations. Of course, it is the latest generation of TTL and Canon has really been trying to bring their TTL flash system up to speed.

I have used several other brands (Sunpak, Metz, Quantum...but never Sigma.) Just have never had the opportunity to do so.

Make sure you check the specs on the flash you get, if you are buying used...some of the earlier Canon flashes will not work with all cameras. I am not completely sure of what does and doesn't work, just make sure.

[Adaptive]

550 = wireless
430 = not wireless

Also the 550 is TTL and ETTL. I'm not sure but is the 430 only TTL

[JohnQ]

I have been looking into the same question. What I found is that the Sigma EF500 Super has all the same features as the 580ex at half the price. Someone please correct me if I am wrong.

[Adaptive]

I have been looking into the same question. What I found is that the Sigma EF500 Super has all the same features as the 580ex at half the price. Someone please correct me if I am wrong.

wow another delaware phtographer

Me personally I stick with all canon stuff. They dont' call it sh!tma for nothing.

[Desmond]

I've been debating the same thing, I have just taken the plunge and got a 30D and need to get another flash I think, as I will need to bounce flash a lot.

Looking at the 580EX because it has wireless, although I may never use it, does anyone have any comments or experience using the 580ex and the 430ex?

I am led to believe the only difference is the wireless and power of the 580, is that the only differences between them???

Des.

[Ronald S. Jr.]

You only need one flash, and you'll have it "forever". Get the best one you can. The 580 is nice with its added power, the catchlight card, and extended wireless capabilities and custom functions.

[Desmond]

Yes, that is the answer I was looking for To spend more money LOL...

I was debating on getting "a flash" and upgrading later on, but I really hope I do keep my 30D for many years to come and want to get the basics but the best I can afford at the time so I have something to rely on and work with, even though I am not "professional" yet

I will keep my eyes out on the 580ex for the next week and get one at a good price. Hopefully.

Thanks again for your advice, I'm hoping this also helps out the "guests" browsing the forums as well.

Des.