I want a beamer

[ThomasOwenM]

I want a beamer, but I don't remember the real name for it. I'm using a 20D with a 430EX flash. The thing is, I'm doing photography of local rock bands and prefer not to flash if I don't absolutely have to, preferring instead to use high ISO with available light. However, even if I realize that the light conditions are good enough that I won't have to flash, I'm still mounting the 430EX and setting it to beam only without firing. That beam really does help the 20D to focus. However, the 430EX is bulky. If I know I don't need to flash (or am prohibited from doing so), it would be nice to mount a small beaming device that has no flash capabilities. I remember someone recommended such a gadget compatible with the Canon EOS line, but I forget the name of it and how I could find it. Does anyone know what it's called and maybe where I can get one? Has anyone used one? Is its beaming as helpful for focusing as that of a 430EX?

[Titus213]

The Canon ST-E2? I believe it has a focus assist beam.

[Philscbx]

Get your self a SureFire small high output flashlite, with thumb switch on tail cap. Their G2 is about $35. It's military grade.

I just did this with too dark of group subjects to get rapid no hunting focus.
One other thing I changed, is putting the focus switch on the back. 30D. Taking it off the shutter button helps from repeated focus hunting.

A quick hit of flashlite, focus, shoot. Perfection.

[tim]

I'd love a beamer, my Toyota's great but i'd like something more upmarket.

[Titus213]

I'd love a beamer, my Toyota's great but i'd like something more upmarket.

Same here - a nice 5 series..