Some flash help

[m and m]

So im looking to add a flash to my set up, but im not sure what way to go. I have seen some set ups where they use a traditional flash on a flash bracket, then some flash rings . I dont want the common question "what's better" but what are some pro's/con's of each?

[LordV]

Normal flash on bracket- Pros- easier to get good diffused light and only one light source.
Con - balance of camera a bit top heavy esp if you try shooting one handed as I often do.

Macro flashes- the single flash rings should be avoided as they are extremely hard to diffuse and produce flat looking light.
Double unit macro flashes are a bit better - you can normally ratio the power heads to stop flat looking shots but the they are hard to diffuse anymore.
The rather expensive MT-24 is more adaptable with adjustable heads and is a bit easier to apply some sort of diffuser to the heads.

Another con of macro flashes which may only really apply to MPE-65 lens use (or any other very close focusing system) is that they increase the diameter of the end of the lens which is not helpfull for close focusing when you are resting the end of the lens on the same surface as the subject (something I frequently do)

I still use a bracket mounted normal flash

Brian v.

[m and m]

Thanks for the very detailed response, i think im going to just keep my flash w/deffuser and get a bracket system. Now where can i find a good one for canon and macro shooting? I have looked all over from ebay to BH and can't find one that puts the flash pointing at the front of the lense. All the ones i find would be used for more like portrate shooting With just using throwing the flash in the same basic possision.