What flash for bird photography?

[greatshot]

Hey guys,

I am looking for a good flash for bird/other wildlife photography. I am trying to decide if I need the 580ex II or if I should just go with the 430ex II. What is your opinion? Do I really need the 580 for birds or will the 430 be fine?

Thanks for any help,

Greatshot

[Jon]

I'd suggest the 580; whichever you get you'll almost certainly want to get a Better Beamer (http://www.birdsasart.com/accs.html#BEAMER) flash extender.

[greatshot]

OK, i am planning on it. Any other opinions?

[andrewhuxman]

I use the 430EX the 580's little brother, works for me but the 580 has more power so I guess it comes down to personal preference. I havent come across a situation yet that I said that I needed the 580 but then again I am not a flash guru and my knowledge is limited when it comes to flashes.

[greatshot]

Ok, thanks.

[Hikin Mike]

I'm still using a 25 year-old Vivitar 2600. It works, but when I have some extra money, I'd probably buy the 580ex II.

[aligater]

Regardless of which flash you opt for the "Better Beamer" mentioned by Jon is a great addition when using flash for bird pics.

[Froggeh]

has anyone compared these side by side?

[canonloader]

I have the 550ex and if you can find a used one, it does a fine job. I also have the better beamer, but, since I mostly shoot little birds within 15-17 feet or so, the bare flash is plenty. I haven't used the beamer in more than a year.

For that matter, I almost never use the flash, as I have learned how to use expoure compensation and a tripod. ;)

[vkalia]

I have a 580EX and a Sigma 500 Super - both are pretty much identical when it comes to field use. Buy the Sigma and save some money.

Vandit

[greatshot]

Ok, I have decided I would like a canon 430 flash but...Should I get the 430ex II or just the 430 ex? Is there a big difference?

Thanks for any help!

Greatshot

[lilminijpc]

Should I get the 430ex II or just the 430 ex? Is there a big difference?

ooh.... i've been wondering about the difference myself!
i'm interested in what the others have to say about this. :)

[aligater]

There are a few other improvements but the main one that would sway me towards the MKII would be........"Reduced recycle times compared to its predecessor, the 430 EX II can recycle up to 20% faster, with less distracting noise during the recycling process."

[canonloader]

Google is your friend.

Canon 430 EX. (http://www.dpreview.com/news/0508/05082206canon430ex.asp)

Canon 430EX II. (http://www.dpreview.com/news/0806/08061001canon430iiex.asp)

[lilminijpc]

ah ok, thanks!
i wanted to get 1st hand input from ppl who had used those 2 flashes before and what would be a swaying factor to buy one vs the other. :)

[canonloader]

Yup, I do the same, but I also rely on Dpreview. They really do it right. :)

[highcountry]

I'd suggest the 580; whichever you get you'll almost certainly want to get a Better Beamer (http://www.birdsasart.com/accs.html#BEAMER) flash extender.

I second that as I did the same thing.