Speedlite 430EX ii

[kimberlygfeller]

So, I purchased one for my rebel xti. And have no idea how to use it! I am going to tackle the owner's manual, but if anyone wants to share their expertise....it would be greatly appreciated :D

[Rhoy Louie]

I'm using the same one. Just use it on ETTL mode and it will do a great job! Bounce it of the ceiling if the flash is to harsh/to give an even room lighting or buy stofen to soften the light.

[wonderland50D]

I also want to buy this flash. Everyone says how good it is but I would not know how to use it. So in low-light situations, like inside the house, you can direct the flash towards the ceiling. Does it have to be pointed in a particular angle? Also, which direction would you point it if you were outside? Or are flashes not that great for outside?
thanks.

[Curtis N]

Flash Photography 101 and the other links in my signature should help you.

[antiskeptic87]

I haven't been using my 430ex for very long but Rhoy Louie is spot on.
Turn it onto "ETTL" mode, angle the flash directly up to the ceiling (you'll find the right angle when you take a few shots). I find that the best settings - and most reliable - for me is aperture open wide, ISO 100, 1/200s.
Like I said though.. I'm new to it also and the best way to learn is just to play with it inside for a while.. Pets make great subjects for this.. Good luck and I'll be subscribing to this thread just to catch new tips too.

[antiskeptic87]

Great tips in those threads Curtis, thanks!

[Disturbed UTT]

I've only just got mine as well. Two days ago but not had much time to play, love it so far though. If anything it's great at upsetting the family ;-) "FLASH" :shock:

I'm slowly getting used to the modes, use the tips suggested and play lots. That's my plan.

[Bosman]

Best tip I ever got and best results for general flash pics,
point flash straight up or just a tick forward, rubberband standard index card to the back of it, it is that simple.

[scorpio_e]

Best tip I ever got was change the direction of the light and save the shadows:)

[justincase724]

Turn the High Speed Sync on (and leave it on). Put the camera in Manual and try playing around with that a bit - shoot some high-shutter speed shots. It's kinda fun what you can do with that HSS.