420EX or 550EX Flash for G3

[esdinges]

420EX or 550EX? Any comments on the use of these two flash units. Is it worth the extra money for the 550EX.
Any info, good or bad is greatly appreciated.
Eric

[StephenPM]

I can't speak to the 550EX, but in the two days I've had my 420EX I've been absolutely thrilled. Fill flash against bright backgrounds has been beautiful, and the pan/tilt head makes getting evenly lit shots very easy. I was concerned about the lack of manual control but have been pleasantly surprised by how effective the E-TTL metering has been. Considering the 550EX is selling for nearly twice the price of the 420EX, I could see a pair of 420EXs being a powerful and flexible alternative.

[PacAce]

StephenPM wrote:
I can't speak to the 550EX, but in the two days I've had my 420EX I've been absolutely thrilled. Fill flash against bright backgrounds has been beautiful, and the pan/tilt head makes getting evenly lit shots very easy. I was concerned about the lack of manual control but have been pleasantly surprised by how effective the E-TTL metering has been. Considering the 550EX is selling for nearly twice the price of the 420EX, I could see a pair of 420EXs being a powerful and flexible alternative.
I second StephenPM's opinion. 550ex for the G3 might just be a little overkill. But, if you were to consider going the dSLR route in the near future, then 550ex might not be a bad idea although the 420ex can definitely hold it's own with the dSLR as well.

[gmaharaj]

I already had a 550ex from my canon eos elan slr. When I used it with my G3 the results were amazing. I can't compare with the 440ex but I am very very satisfied.

[Whaler]

I've got the 420ex and thus far the results have been flawless.

[NILOLIGIST]

esdinges,

I really can't comment since I haven't purchased my flash yet. I am leaning towards the 420EX. However, I would sure love to see some of these amazing and flawless results the others are getting.

Smile,

[esdinges]

I received my G3 today from UPS. I waited all day for it to show up (called in sick at work ;) ). All I can say is WOW!!! I'm selling my SLR, if I can find someone who still wants to shoot film.
Thanks for all of the responces. I am leaning towards the 420EX flash. The onboard flash just doesn't cut it. (I wasn't expecting it too).

[getg3]

Esdinges:

Your boss is reading this thread too :). You made the right decision. G3 is great! Enjoy shooting!