For outdoor fill flash - 580EX or 430EX with better beamer

[mn shutterbug]

Which would give me the most effective range? This will be used with the 100-400 lens and primarily for birds.

[PacAce]

By effective, if you mean the longest range, then it'll be the 580EX.

[mn shutterbug]

Even when you factor in the better beamer with the 430EX?

[ticounne]

The 430 and better beamer would send the flash further than the 580 alone. You have to understand that the better beamer only works when you are far away from your subject ie: 60-200ft, otherwise, you only get a bright spot in the center of your image.

This said, I used a 430 and better beamer on my 400mm ant it was a really good combo.

Hope this helps.

Jean

[PacAce]

Even when you factor in the better beamer with the 430EX?
No, but if you use the 580EX with the Better Beamer, you're still going to end up with more range than with the 430EX, with or without the BB on it. ;)