420ex vs 550ex

[aidensnd]

I'm planning on getting one of these flashes (420 or 550) and was just wondering if anyone had any opinions on which one I should get. I will be using it on my G3 as well as on my 35mm film camera.
Any help would be great.

[kreego]

Hello aidensnd,

I, and many G-series forum members, use the 420EX. In my entirely objective, non-technical opinion, you'll do great with this flash - the 550EX is twice as expensive, even bulkier, and offers a bit more manual control. Given that the G-series cameras can't use the autofocus aid from the Canon flashes (did I summarize this right?) there's really little reason you'd really have to have the 550EX over the 420EX.

What kind of photo work do you envision with your external flash?

K

[DaveB]

The 550EX is more powerful, hence is effective at greater range than the 420EX.

I use the 420EX on my G3 and Pro1 all the time and find it so much better than the on camera flash. It bends and swivels and being able to bounce the light also allows for pleasing modeled effects rather than the flattening that the on camera flash delivers.

No annoying red-eye either.

I think you might find the 550EX to be a little unweildy with the G3. As it is, the 420EX makes the G3 top heavy. Still, it's probably my favorite accessory for the Canon.

Get something like an omnibouce too.