Off-camera flash options... need help!

I've done some researching and I cannot seem to figure out the best system and needed components for triggering my flash off-camera.

My Needs:
I am wanting to trigger my flash mounted on a light stand w/ umbrella and I want the flexability and dependability of using a radio signal. I intend on setting the flash (580 EX) intensity manually, so I do not need TTL.

I really like the compact size of the MicroSync system (http://www.microsyncdi​gital.com), but I've read something about the shutter sync speed being an issue. The other thing is I don't quite understand how it would attach to the flash either.

I would also consider the Pocket Wizard, as I've seen great reviews on it. The only drawback is it's bulky and with the existing bulk of my 30D and one of my "L" lenses, I'm not big on adding alot more.

So my question is has anyone used either device and found any drawbacks to them and what additional items do you need to connect it to the flash to trigger it in Manual Mode?

I greatly appreciate your help!

The PW isn't any bulkier than having a small flash mounted directly on top of the camera. It's so light that you won't even notice much of a difference in weight with and without it on.

I believe you would need these items to make it work:

http://www.microsyncdi​gital.com/synccords.cf​m
http://www.adorama.com​/FAHSPCA.html

Or just this w/ a 580EX/430EX:

http://www.usa.canon.c​om …tegoryid=141&mo​delid=8304

If you can afford the pocket wizards, buy them.

lostdoggy wrote in post #2051049
Or just this w/ a 580EX/430EX:

http://www.usa.canon.c​om …tegoryid=141&mo​delid=8304

The reason I don't want this is because it's infared and I've heard it performs poorly outside in sunlight and it's directional, which means if I get ahead of the flash or I'm turned away from it, it will not fire. That's a few of the many reasons I want a radio transmitted signal.

PacAce wrote in post #2051007
The PW isn't any bulkier than having a small flash mounted directly on top of the camera. It's so light that you won't even notice much of a difference in weight with and without it on.

I do barrel-rolls with the camera when I'm shooting. LOL. Just kidding. The compact part of the MicroSync system is what I favor, as it'll fit in my bag better. But with this, what attachment would I need to the flash to make the PW trigger it? It needs to be able to be mounted on a lightstand.

imchillindave wrote in post #2051221
The reason I don't want this is because it's infared and I've heard it performs poorly outside in sunlight and it's directional, which means if I get ahead of the flash or I'm turned away from it, it will not fire. That's a few of the many reasons I want a radio transmitted signal.



I do barrel-rolls with the camera when I'm shooting. LOL. Just kidding. The compact part of the MicroSync system is what I favor, as it'll fit in my bag better. But with this, what attachment would I need to the flash to make the PW trigger it? It needs to be able to be mounted on a lightstand.

You need something like this. It doesn't necessarily have to be this particular item which I know is kind of pricey.

http://www.paramountco​rds.com …sp?prod=PW%2DMH​SF1&cat=85

There are other cheaper alternatives like getting a PC-to-hotshoe adapter and replacing the PC plug with a miniphone jack yourself for a couple of bucks.

http://www.bhphotovide​o.com …EG&addedTroughT​ype=search

imchillindave wrote in post #2051221
The reason I don't want this is because it's infared and I've heard it performs poorly outside in sunlight and it's directional, which means if I get ahead of the flash or I'm turned away from it, it will not fire. That's a few of the many reasons I want a radio transmitted signal.

....

PacAce wrote in post #2051298
There are other cheaper alternatives like getting a PC-to-hotshoe adapter and replacing the PC plug with a miniphone jack yourself for a couple of bucks.

http://www.bhphotovide​o.com …EG&addedTroughT​ype=search

yes, this is what I did. The miniphone connectors were $2 for two of them at my local radio shack. I just got the soldering iron and made 'em myself. They work great, and MUCH cheaper than the custom paramount stuff.

I was interested in the microsync too until I found out that it's max sync is 1/180 and it's range is MUCH shorter than pocketwizard.

The new Plus2 units can also trigger your camera and your lights remotely! I've been triggering my camera remotely using my sekonic light meter. It's pretty sweet. pocketwizards are the standard to beat in wireless triggering.