Transmitter for the 550

[csoto]

I have the 10D and just ordered the 550 flash unit. I have read that the flash unit can be sync'ed. If the unit is off the camera...will the pop-up flash sync the 550? or do I have to purchase the Canon transmitter? Are there other transmitters that will work?

[Morden]

The built-in flash won't do it. You need either the wired off-shoe accessories, or the ST-E2 ETTL transmitter (which, by the way, I use & find to work wonderfully well with the 550EX & 420EX)

[hommedars]

Morden wrote:
The built-in flash won't do it. You need either the wired off-shoe accessories, or the ST-E2 ETTL transmitter (which, by the way, I use & find to work wonderfully well with the 550EX & 420EX)

Agreed. The ST-E2 with 550EX and/or 420EX is an ideal setup that works flawlessly for me. Wouldn not even consider a third party option.

[fumanchu]

I use the ST-E2 extensively for off-camera lighting on a lot of the profile shoots that I do. The ST-E2 works great in firing the 550EX in most circumstances. However, in some situations where the 550EX unit is not in the direct line of sight of the transmitter, the flash has failed to fire. If this happens indoors and in a small/medium sized room then this is generally not a problem since the IR beam will reflect off the walls and hit the Speedlite somehow. I haven't been so lucky with outdoor shoots.

Despite this the ST-E2 has been a great addition to my system.

You may wish to consider PocketWizard's radio transmitter as well. (Look here - http://www.pocketwizard.com/). It uses radio waves which are not as restrictive as intrared transmission is. I personally have not had any experience with this setup but I do know some professional photographers who do live by it.

[scottbergerphoto]

I use the Pocket Wizard with my 10D, G2, and Nikon F5 in conjunction with both Studio lights and dedicated flash units. It works very well. No cords to trip over. Also has a module that slips into Sekonic Meters to fire the lights for a flash reading.