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Annie in Oz
25th of March 2008 (Tue), 22:47
I am very new to photography but keen to learn. I need to get some basics but have no idea where to start. I have a Canon 300D with 18-55 lens plus a 28-135mm.

What kind of flash would be best to purchase just to get me started? - preferably at the lower price bracket.

I am in the western suburbs of Brisbane and would also like any advice on basic photography courses or clubs in my area. Would love to join a club that goes on field trips that would be willing to offer some tips for beginners.

Thanks in advance for any info. :)
PhotosGuy
26th of March 2008 (Wed), 08:25
The Vivitar 285HV should be a great starter flash & the trigger voltage is only 6 volts. $89 at B&H. (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/shop/9134/Flashes_Accessories_Non_Dedicated_Flashes.html)

I use the older 283 with a trigger voltage reducer & they just never fail!
Simple "every-day-emergency" location lighting (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=66358)

There are a LOT of tutorials in the "Sticky"s at the top of each forum to get you started, too.

Welcome to POTN!
Annie in Oz
26th of March 2008 (Wed), 15:19
Hi Frank,

Thanks for the info. I had a nosy at your photos......just to see what that flash is capable of (only joking)- great photos. The one of 103 Deleware looks like there is someone at the top window, is this the case? Was this house used in a movie? Beautiful setting.

Thanks again, Anne
PhotosGuy
27th of March 2008 (Thu), 08:35
The one of 103 Deleware looks like there is someone at the top window, is this the case? Was this house used in a movie? That's just a curtain. No, the house is in my home town & most "producers" couldn't find it with a map! :D just to see what that flash is capable of (only joking) Mostly it's what you are willing to do to learn it's capabilities on full M. I've removed the sensor from the one I use on the camera & replaced it with the Varipower module so I can dial in the power I need. Once you do a few tests to see what the power is at various distances, like 8', 11', & 16' with a given f-stop, it's very easy to dial in fill without having to think about EC & wonder what the meter thinks it's looking at.

More on the meter "thinking" here: Post # 47 (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showpost.php?p=5191658&postcount=47)