Off Camera Flash Newbie

[sportsfan0317]

I've searched this forum a ton and tried to piece all the information together. I do a lot of lab shots for the University and I have a Canon XTI with a 17-55 2.8 IS lens. I currently have a 430EXII and here's what I'm recommending for our upgrade so that I can try Off Camera Lighting:

580ex to mount on the camera and use as the master.
Then use the 430EXII as the slave
45" White Impact umbrella with a bracket for light stand we already have.
Diffusers for both flashes.

To get off camera currently I would need to pick up a transmitter and receiver but the downside to that would be that I would still only have the one light source.

My question: Is buying the 580 the best move or should I just pick up a set of PW's and just have the one flash? I think the budget would allow for me to buy the 580 set up I just need to make a strong enough case as to will it help me produce better results.

Thanks for any input.

[sportsfan0317]

Here's a sample of a current shoot.

[Curtis N]

In your situation I think the 58EX II would offer the most versatility. The Canon wireless flash system should work well in that type of environment, with the option of E-TTL which will reduce the time required to set up and meter.

If you were working outdoors I would recommend a radio trigger system.

[mattograph]

A way to expand your options with just a little more dough is with an ETTL cord. You can buy them at up to 24 ft at flashzebra.com. This would allow you to get the second light off camera for use in other locations in the room, and possibly for situations where you have to manipulate the master so that the remote can "see" the wireless signal.

Won't cost more than sixty bucks US.