Flash for SX1 IS

[bazzeruk]

I have just upgraded from the S5 IS to the SX1. I used the HF-DC1 flash unit, which does not fit the SX1. I am a hobby photographer and would like some advice on which speedlite to use - would there be any benefit of paying a lot for the 430EX?

[dan j]

I used the 430EX II on my SX10 IS. It worked fine, but I couldn't use the AF assist lights which kind of stinks.

dan

[tkbslc]

I used the 430EX II on my SX10 IS. It worked fine, but I couldn't use the AF assist lights which kind of stinks.

dan

The SX10 and SX1 have their own AF assist light in the camera body, so that is the one it uses.

The 430EX works great and will allow for ceiling bounce shots. This greatly improves indoor flash shots. You'll want to avoid using low powered cheaper flash units with your camera. Low powered flash means you'll have to boost the ISO and you want to stay under ISO 400 on your camera.

[dan j]

The SX10 and SX1 have their own AF assist light in the camera body, so that is the one it uses.
Yes, and my 40D has an internal AF assist light too, but it can use the AF light on the 430's. Not using a flashes AF light is a shortcoming of the SX10 IS.

dan

[PacAce]

Yes, and my 40D has an internal AF assist light too, but it can use the AF light on the 430's. Not using a flashes AF light is a shortcoming of the SX10 IS.

dan

True, your 40D has an internal AF assist light but you can't use it when an external flash is mounted on the hotshoe. So you have to use the AF assist light on the external flash. On top of that, the AF assist light of the external flashes were made for use with EOS cameras and not for the P&S cameras. ;)

[dan j]

Yeah, but the Canon rep was marketing the SX10 as an EOS. Eh, I was new and didn't know better.

dan

[bazzeruk]

Thanks Guys - looks like it is the 430 then! Great forum - very helpful people.