Posted by Richard Olsen on February 16, 2007 at 2:24 PM
I'm ready to purchase a flash unit to go on My Canon XTi, and know very little about what I need. I'll be using the flash for fill flash on birds and such. Some guidance on what to buy as far as brands and capabilities would be appreciated!
Thanks,
Richard
Posted by Paul Wegemann on February 17, 2007 at 9:57 AM
Richard,
This might be a good question to post over on the dpreview lighting forum. Personally, I have both the Sigma DG500 Super and the Canon 580EX, but I rarely use them outdoors except for people shots. For that, I find the 580EX to be better than the Sigma although it costs quite a bit more. If you're going to be using a flash for wildlife photography, I think you'll also be looking for a flash extender; something like a Better Beamer. I think John Shaw has written some articles on using flash outdoors for wildlife as has Michael Reichman on Luminous Landscape.
Posted by Ken Wyatt on February 17, 2007 at 11:10 AM
For simple fill flash, the Canon 430EX should be sufficient (assuming here that the subject matter will be close). For distance, you'll want a more powerful flash - 580EX. Check out www.birdsasart.com for a good deal on a collapsable flash extender. Companies like Kirk Enterprises or Really Right Stuff will have flash brackets that work well with the larger glass.
Ken
Posted by Nat Coalson on February 18, 2007 at 6:00 PM
I enthusiastically recommend Metz flash units over anything produced by the camera manufacturers. Lots of reviews and purchasing resources online.
Discussion
3 repliesThanks,
Richard
This might be a good question to post over on the dpreview lighting forum. Personally, I have both the Sigma DG500 Super and the Canon 580EX, but I rarely use them outdoors except for people shots. For that, I find the 580EX to be better than the Sigma although it costs quite a bit more. If you're going to be using a flash for wildlife photography, I think you'll also be looking for a flash extender; something like a Better Beamer. I think John Shaw has written some articles on using flash outdoors for wildlife as has Michael Reichman on Luminous Landscape.
Ken