Flash Unit Recommendation

Just a bit of background: I use a Canon 400D with a couple of Canon primes lenses, as well as a Sigma 17-70mm walk-around lens. I rarely have occasion to use a flash since I prefer to work outdoors with available light.

However, I volunteered to photograph a special occasion for my daughter which will likely require the use of flash. This will be indoor candid portraits; no studio. So I will need a flash unit more capable that the built-in flash on the 400D.

I would really appreciate your thoughts on specific flash units such as Speedlites or others. Also, which features should I be looking for in a flash unit.

Thank you kindly for your help.

Kit

It really depends on your budget, I would suggest the obvious...Canon 580 or 430 speedlights. If you are on a tighter budget then look for the Yongnuo speedlights.

If you think this is just a one time thing, then I would look into renting a 580, $52 for 4 days HERE.

What details do you know about the venue? Ceiling height? Wall colors? Lighting types? Size?

kitjv wrote in post #13136765
Just a bit of background: I use a Canon 400D with a couple of Canon primes lenses, as well as a Sigma 17-70mm walk-around lens. I rarely have occasion to use a flash since I prefer to work outdoors with available light.

However, I volunteered to photograph a special occasion for my daughter which will likely require the use of flash. This will be indoor candid portraits; no studio. So I will need a flash unit more capable that the built-in flash on the 400D.

I would really appreciate your thoughts on specific flash units such as Speedlites or others. Also, which features should I be looking for in a flash unit.
Thank you kindly for your help.
Kit

For that you just need a basic ETTL flash, you can look at a used Canon like the 430exII or one of the non-Canon flashes like the Yongnuo YN-465, YN467, etc. ($65)
Remember to bounce the light on the flash for best results

Do the Yongnuo YN-465 or YN467 have ETTL? I would make sure to get ETTL. If you are going to spend $65 may as well tack on another $100 and get the Yongnuo 565. Just as powerful as the Canon 580 and it has ETTL.

If you want a Canon product the grandaddy is the 580. I am in the bigger is better camp. You can always dial power back but you can't squeeze more out of flash when you are maxed out. On camera the 430 is very capable. You will notice the loss then using it off camera with a diffuser. Sometimes the 580 is pushed to the max here.

The Canon 580 and Yongnuo 565 both have full head rotation capabilities in both directions. Both Canon and Yongnuo nest step down models do not.

Thank you for your comments.

Unfortunately I will know nothing about the venue in which I might be shooting. Indoor shots will likely be impromptu in various locations. Hence, it seems like I will need a basic ETTL flash unit & get some experience with it.

And, truth be known, I really do need to get a flash unit for times when ambient light is inadequate. I think that I have been putting off the inevitable.

I will definitely check out both the Speedlites & the Yongnuo flashes. Thank you for your help.

Kit

I'll tell you for the money and if your on a budget. The youngo flash units and triggers have done me fine. Easy to use and so far no issues

kitjv wrote in post #13138935
Thank you for your comments.

Unfortunately I will know nothing about the venue in which I might be shooting. Indoor shots will likely be impromptu in various locations. Hence, it seems like I will need a basic ETTL flash unit & get some experience with it.

And, truth be known, I really do need to get a flash unit for times when ambient light is inadequate. I think that I have been putting off the inevitable.

The bold part shows a major misconception. Having enough light is only half the battle. A flash can (and should) be used to improve the Quality of the light in addition to the quantity. You need to get a light and learn how to use it for fill and separation and all the other good things a flash can bring.

Gonzogolf: Point well-taken.

Considering this will be my first foray into the world of flash, the Yongnuo 468 is attractive. It's a E-TTL unit, has the basic features (at least for a new flash user) & the price is reasonable.