Flash needed for fill flash

[mxride]

I am debating between the 420 and 550 flash. I am only going to be using it for outdoor fill flash when shooting motocross .I was hoping somebody would be able to let me know if it would be worth the extra $200 to go with the 550 for fill flash. From what I see, they both go 105MM. Are there other concerns I should be considering?

[DaveG]

The 550 is a more powerful, more sophisticated flash than the 420. It offers manual settings, flash based flash compensation, and can be the Master Flash in a multiple wireless flash set up. The 420 doesn't have any of those features.

I agree that fot the use you descibed then the 420 would be OK. But it's doubtful that this will be the only use that you find for your flash.

[markubig]

what camera body are you using? if it's a 300D, then the 550 might be the better choice because the Drebel does not have FEC and the 550 has it onboard. If you are using a 10D/20D/350D, then the 420 should be fine

[tim]

Personally i'd probably get the Canon, because then I know it will work with a 550EX/580EX later when you want a multi-flash setup. If you don't think you'll want a multi-flash setup, or if you have a 300D, the Sigma will give you the very useful FEC.

[markubig]

Personally i'd probably get the Canon, because then I know it will work with a 550EX/580EX later when you want a multi-flash setup. If you don't think you'll want a multi-flash setup, or if you have a 300D, the Sigma will give you the very useful FEC.i don't think he's considering Sigma, Tim . . . he orignally asked between 420 and 550.

and Yes, Tim and Dave are right that the 550 can be used as a master (or slave w/ a 580) in a wireless setup.

[mxride]

what camera body are you using? if it's a 300D, then the 550 might be the better choice because the Drebel does not have FEC and the 550 has it onboard. If you are using a 10D/20D/350D, then the 420 should be fine


I have the XT. I really only want to use it for outdoor fill flash. My other concern is burst mode. Does the 550 work quicker in burst mode?

[markubig]

i have both and noticed that the 550 works better in burst mode. Also, if you go w/ the 550 ... search the marketplace forum here, fredmiranda, or photo.net. people are always putting used ones for sale and you can get them for $220-$250.