Need to get off camera with 430ex

[BadgirlIROC]

I know, I know....hundreds of threads about this but none answer my question exactly!

I have the 430ex and have been having some fun with it but I can see how I need to get this flash off the camera. I have seen how people get good effects putting the 430ex on a stand and either going wireless or corded and using an umbrella. I have also seen the results from getting a Beginner Bee and going that route. But I am lost as to which is the smarter route to take since I'm starting out. I want to be able to take my little setup to work or wherever needed and I don't have much space at home for anything to stay up. If I go with the 430ex off camera on a stand....exactly what is needed? I see some people use a PC cord or some other off camera cord that's maybe from that Michael Bass designs...or the PWs or Skyports. I just need to know exactly what I need. I want to be able to be corded for backup and wireless otherwise.

Thanks guys! You can see my latest on camera flash pics here
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=4979409#post4979409

[nwa2]

Corded I use an off camera flash cord that retains full ETTL functionality.

Non-corded your options are:
Retaining ETTL: you can get the ST-2 wireles trigger from Canon, or a 530ex flash.

Sacrificing ETTL you can use any wireless trigger from cheap no brand items on e-bay to expensive pocket wizards.

[joruiz]

As a starting point you can buy the Gadget Infinity "eBay Triggers" or Cactus. Just be sure to buy V2. You will be able to trigger your 430EX off camera in manual mode. I have both the 430 and the ebay trigger and it works fine. It is no Pocket Wizards, but it's enough to learn. Of course if you have cash to burn then you can go straight ahead an buy the skyport or Pocket Wizards, but if you are just looking something that you can use to learn, then the ebay trigger is probably enough. It isn't 100% reliable, but you aren't breaking the bank either.

[DDCSD]

Boy, a couple of days ago you were cursing that flash. Now you can't wait to use it off camera? :lol:

Looks like you're getting that flash figured out nicely.

Can't help you much here, but just wanted to say that I'm glad you're getting such nice results so quickly.

[BadgirlIROC]

I am afraid of the ebay type triggers. I'm the type of person to save up and get something good then cheap and fast. :-) I think those skyports seem to be a good alternative. I also have seen people mention the FlashWaves which are even better priced.

But in either case will I need the shoe adaptors and which one? Does the flash and camera need them (so it would seem)

[BadgirlIROC]

Boy, a couple of days ago you were cursing that flash. Now you can't wait to use it off camera? :lol:

Looks like you're getting that flash figured out nicely.

Can't help you much here, but just wanted to say that I'm glad you're getting such nice results so quickly.

I don't think I cursed it but I was very unsure of it! Once someone told me to not be afraid of Manual, you could say the light came on LOL.

And thanks for the compliment! I have been taking lots of pics over the past few days and reading flash techniques and such so my head gets all wrapped around it all. I've been wanting to get into photography (past my p&s) for many years and I'm just so eager to learn & improve!

[smoov]

Corded I use an off camera flash cord that retains full ETTL functionality.

.

Man, I just made the same thread! And then of course at the bottom, once it's posted is the list of similar threads. Duh on me! Anyway, can you tell me specifically what cord you use that retains full ETTL function? Thanks in advance.

[L1TTLEgreenMAN]

I dont know if you are familiar with strobist.com but it has a pretty big following around here. http://www.mpex.com/page.htm?PG=Strobist%20Kits these are the different off camera flash kits that are available. Im thinking of going that route.