Need advice

I am very new to photography but keen to learn. I need to get some basics but have no idea where to start. I have a Canon 300D with 18-55 lens plus a 28-135mm.

What kind of flash would be best to purchase just to get me started? - preferably at the lower price bracket.

I am in the western suburbs of Brisbane and would also like any advice on basic photography courses or clubs in my area. Would love to join a club that goes on field trips that would be willing to offer some tips for beginners.

Thanks in advance for any info.

The Vivitar 285HV should be a great starter flash & the trigger voltage is only 6 volts. $89 at B&H.

I use the older 283 with a trigger voltage reducer & they just never fail!
Simple "every-day-emergency" location lighting

There are a LOT of tutorials in the "Sticky"s at the top of each forum to get you started, too.

Welcome to POTN!

Hi Frank,

Thanks for the info. I had a nosy at your photos......just to see what that flash is capable of (only joking)- great photos. The one of 103 Deleware looks like there is someone at the top window, is this the case? Was this house used in a movie? Beautiful setting.

Thanks again, Anne

That's just a curtain. No, the house is in my home town & most "producers" couldn't find it with a map!

Mostly it's what you are willing to do to learn it's capabilities on full M. I've removed the sensor from the one I use on the camera & replaced it with the Varipower module so I can dial in the power I need. Once you do a few tests to see what the power is at various distances, like 8', 11', & 16' with a given f-stop, it's very easy to dial in fill without having to think about EC & wonder what the meter thinks it's looking at.

More on the meter "thinking" here: Post # 47