Sppedlite 430EX to replace onboard 650D flash?

Hi all;

I have an opportunity to buy a 430ex for 150-200ish... but I'm wondering if it's going to be a worthwhile replacement for the built in flash on my T4i.

I guess with the diffusing cap and the adjustable angles I have some advantages... but can anyone advise we further?

Oh goodness yes.

If you're in an area with white ceilings or white walls, the tile/swivel will allow you to bounce your flash, effectively making it a flash modifier. On-camera flash is harsh and flat, respectively because your apparent light source is small and on-axis light flattens the shadow detail of your subject. Ultimately it looks unflattering on your subject. Bouncing the flash on a wall or ceiling will both increase your apparent light source making it softer (like an umbrella or softbox would), and alter the direction to give a more natural shaded look.

Not only that, but like the T3i, the T4i has a master controller in the pop up flash. So you can use the 430EX as an off-camera slave. Meaning you can use shoot-thru umbrellas, you can use softboxes, you have a lot of creative choices, and thanks to the built-in Canon wireless control you only need one slave-capable flash to get started.

Any speed light like the 430ex will be an improvement over the pop up flash onboard your camera. You'll have the ability to "bounce" the flash off ceilings etc... and at omni bounces and other diffusers to control the light. Portraits will be more natural looking without "red-eye". You can control shadows etc.. to light the portrait the way you want.
I bought a 550ex on eBay and it was one of the best things for my camera. I've seen my picture improve no end.

GO FOR IT! BUY IT!

Yes. Its worthwhile. The built in flash is terrible light as its too close to the lens and its always direct. An accessory flash like the 430ex will allow you do bounce, use other forms of modifiers, and have considerably more power. Beware the diffusing caps, they dont actually soften the light. They do spread the light around which may in some circumstances be beneficial, but more often than not in circumstances where they do work, you didnt need one to begin with.

Also you can use the 430ex as a slave and the on-camera flash as a master making for some amazing light. Hands down one of the best things to have for many things is an external flash.

Nature Nut: Can I do this wirelessly?

Dan Kearley wrote in post #14913690
Nature Nut: Can I do this wirelessly?

Yes, the on-camera flash will optically trigger the 430ex. It works behind the camera as well so line of sight isnt specifically needed

Heres a quick link http://www.youtube.com​/watch?v=ZDadD4mmvn0

Nature Nut wrote in post #14913696
Yes, the on-camera flash will optically trigger the 430ex. It works behind the camera as well so line of sight isnt specifically needed

Line of sight is required, but it can be bounced line of sight.

gonzogolf wrote in post #14913710
Line of sight is required, but it can be bounced line of sight.

Yea, It has to see the light from master flash, but there's some flex in placement. I just meant it doesnt have to be in front of the camera per-se. I didn't know this until I tried it out. Pretty nifty.

It will work wonders.... but you have to actually use it.

My parents have a 430 ex II that they got but they never use it.... drives me crazy sometimes.

I appreciate all the info. I think I should be able to get it a little cheap than 200$... we'll see...