what makes the 430ex better than the stock 30D flash?

[Siriusmuzik]

what makes it better? Is the light more bright? Or is it just more natural/less harsh looking? thanks

[Curtis N]

This thread (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=207470)should provide some insights.

[Lunajen]

Just a quick note...the standard range in feet that the pop up flash on the 30D reaches is 33 feet, if you are lucky.

The range for the 430 EX is 141 feet at 100 ISO at 105mm.

[Curtis N]

Just a quick note...the standard range in feet that the pop up flash on the 30D reaches is 33 feet, if you are lucky. The range for the 430 EX is 141 feet at 100 ISO at 105mm.Actually the built-in has a guide number (GN) of 13 meters or 43 feet, covers a 28mm lens, and luck really doesn't have much to do with it.

The 430EX has a GN of 27 meters or 89 feet at the same coverage angle, roughly double the distance or 2 stops more power. The motorized zoom extends that range to 141 feet only if you're using a long enough lens.

The actual range depends on the aperture and ISO also.

[tmonatr]

Here's 2 shots. 1st with pop-up flash on 30D, 2nd with 430EX bounced. Slight difference in light quality.;)

[Siriusmuzik]

woah thanks for the help guys.

I see the 2nd picture looks a LOT better than the "point and shoot"ishness of the first picture. Really diggin the flash!

[chainz]

Thats a great example Tim.

[Mcary]

Also you can put the 430ex on a bracket which is kind or hard to do with a pop-up flash

Mike

[tmonatr]

Thats a great example Tim.
Thanks.