Flash Bracket?

[hsmoscout]

It seems most of the people involved in macro here use a flash bracket instead of a macro flash. After looking at what B&H had, I have no idea what bracket to get, there are so many different choices. I basically want something that's relatively cheap but still good quality and gets the job done. Also what sync cord would be good to hook to my 430EX II and Rebel XS?

[LordV]

You need a bracket that allows you to get the flash head near the end of the lens (allowing for a diffuser on flash head) and also perhaps moves if your macro lens extends when focusing. This gives a large light source relative to the subject and also allows you to get the light around the end of the lens if the focus distance is fairly short. A Hakuba LH-1 ballhead bracket (Ebay) is fairly cheap but you may need to replace the ballhead with a larger generic one with a 1/4" male end fitting.
RE the flash cord- any canon fit off camera ETTL2 compatable cord should be fine (either canon or generic ones).
Brian V.

[Warl0rd]

I have the Hakuba LH-1 and I'm happy with it. the ballhead is fragile but so far so good, but at least if it breaks it can be easily replaced.

[hsmoscout]

A Hakuba LH-1 ballhead bracket (Ebay) is fairly cheap but you may need to replace the ballhead with a larger generic one with a 1/4" male end fitting.
Brian V.

So would something like this be good?
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=WishList.jsp&A=details&Q=&sku=490023&is=REG
and then something like this to put the flash on?
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=WishList.jsp&A=details&Q=&sku=50546&is=REG

What are my diffuser options? Are there any short-term alternatives to the flash bracket?

[Warl0rd]

the flash cord has a screw place.

[hsmoscout]

the flash cord has a screw place.

Oh, so no need for the mount? Just the ballhead?

[Warl0rd]

yes, unless your cord doesn't have it, mine does.