Second Flash Unit for Portraits: 420EX or 550EX?

[bnsfr]

I've got a 420EX and would like to buy an ST-E2 and second flash unit to set up a (decidedly amateur) portrait studio. What are the advantages/disadvantages of the second flash unit being a 550EX vs. a 420 EX? Any better alternatives than buying one or the other? All advice appreciated.

[CyberDyneSystems]

I "think" that the 420ex will NOT function as a master to trigger other flashes. I "know" the 550ex will.

I realize the st-e2 will also trigger the slaves,. but IF you decide to ever use a slave flash in conjunction with a camera mounted master,. the 550ex will give you that option.

[robertwgross]

Let's look at the problem another way. I would assume that the most standard approach is to have the camera in the center, with the ST-E2 on it. Then have one flash somewhat to the right and one flash somewhat to the left. If you have one flash being the 550EX, and if one is the 420EX, then you are covered. Both do not need to be 550EX, because one master is enough.

FWIW, I have the ST-E2 and one 550EX. If I needed to purchase another flash, I would likely get the 420EX.

---Bob Gross---