Canon 10D & Vivitar

[harvwallbanger]

Hi there everyone.

I am a new when it comes to digital photography and I have a question for the pros.

I have a Canon 10D that I have had for a few years. It was handed down to me, and I've been using it basically as a point and shoot camera.

I love the camera!!!

Now I am looking at getting a flash. After spending several hours online researching I have come to the conclusion that I would like to get the Canon 420EX and this fits my budget and I'm not a pro...yet.

....then I came across a few forums where people had mentioned that they preferred the Vivitar 285HV to most of the Canon Speedlite flashes.

So I googled Canon 10D and Vivitar 285HV. Did some more researching and it brought me to this Canon forum.

My question is, would anyone recommend the Vivitar 285HV over the Canon 420EX?

If so, what all do I need to get the Vivitar flash to work on my 10D?

It also seems that a Vivitar 285HV can be found for under $100 on ebay while the Canon 420EX runs around $200.

Thanks to all in advance for your help.

Much appreciated!

Harvwallbanger

[Jim M]

I'd still get the 420EX.

[Curtis N]

Harv,

You're looking at two very different technologies with very different capabilities. They both have thier pros & cons. I suggest reading "The EOS Flash Bible" (link in my sig) to learn about the various flash metering systems.

The Vivitar is an old-fashioned automatic flash that can help make great pictures but it requires a learning curve and has some real limitations. The 420EX has some limitations, too. The only way to make the right choice is to understand the differences.