Ring flash or Canon 580/430 flash?

[robwilliamsonpa]

I'm new to macro photography and want to buy a flash unit. My dilemma is, should I buy a flash ring (which I understand is useful only for macro work) or a more all-round flash unit such as the 580EX?

Probably 60-70% of the use will be for macro. I'd like to buy a flash that is pretty good for macro and non-macro. Is the 580EX (or 430EX unit) sufficiently acceptable for macro work to make it a good all-round solution?

Any insight gratefully appreciated.

[LordV]

A normal flash is perfectly suitable for nearly all macro work, but you will probably also need a flash bracket, diffuser and off camera cord as well.
Brian V.

[Leorooster]

If you have interest in other photography areas, I would suggest that you get the 580EX and a flash bracket, as you can use the 580EX for other purposes. A lot of people here don't have the ring lite (or the twin lite), but still have excellent results.

[dpastern]

I'll also go with the 580ex, flash bracket (I can recommend the Delta Flip Flash 1 heartily), and a diffuser (I can also recommend the Sto-fen brand happily).

Dave

[BugMan]

No ring flash! Get the MT-24EX if you are serious about insect macro photography.

[racketman]

580EX/430EX diffused will do a great job. Ringflash is very compact in the field but get the Canon for ease of use.