Any tips shooting people inside without a flash?

You have a number of issues to deal with, the first is making sure you have enough light. Unless you have a fast prime lens, something like 1.8 its hard to get enough light. The second problem is getting light from the right direction. Overhead lights often cast shadows in the eyesockets, under noses etc which can be unflattering. The final problem is getting the correct white balance, you need to do a custom white balance so that your colors are somewhat accurate. The best option is to get a flash and learn how to use it.

What flash would you reccomend for a beginner just to mess around with? I have a Canon Rebel XS.

justinbeisner wrote in post #12652323
What flash would you reccomend for a beginner just to mess around with? I have a Canon Rebel XS.

I would recommend a canon 430ex, or 430exII. If those are out of your price range then look at the YN flashes online. I dont use them but they come well recommended for the price. Make sure if you go that route that you get one that is ETTL compatible.

Personally I recommend staying with flash guns that will grow with you.
60D & 7D both provide remote wireless control through the popup flash, and use ETTL technology.

You may save a few bucks getting the YN-460 but will pay double overtime as you upgrade bodies.