Can someone recommend a "flash" for my Canon Rebel XSI?

Just wondering if I can get some advice for purchasing a flash for my camera. I have no idea on which would be a good "starter" flash! Also does anyone have any "tips" or advice on purchasing camera items on ebay? I am a NEWbie with this stuff so please be patient! I am trying to learn, slowly but surely!

Thanks in advance,

TLowe

Get a Canon EX flash. either the 430 or the 580. I am not sure what the feature differences are but the 580 has a higher light output and can be a Master to control other flashes for multi flash setups. I do not personally know anything about the 430. I would say to staqy with a newer Canon flash so you can take advantage of all the features that the Canon System offers.

The 580 II is a great flash, but I wouldn't say it's a starter model...if you think you're gonna get serious with it, then you'll probably buy it eventually!

I started with a 430EX then traded it in for the 580 once I got the hang of lighting.

Its worth it to take some time and read up on the system and 3rd party dedicated options out there. After a lot of reading and testing i ended up going with metz (for somewhat specific reasons) for my on camera dedicated flash and I've been very happy with it. Others will recommend Sigma and Canon, as you are the one who is going to end up using it, make sure it suits your needs not someone elses.

nadtz wrote in post #5518904
Its worth it to take some time and read up on the system and 3rd party dedicated options out there. After a lot of reading and testing i ended up going with metz (for somewhat specific reasons) for my on camera dedicated flash and I've been very happy with it. Others will recommend Sigma and Canon, as you are the one who is going to end up using it, make sure it suits your needs not someone elses.

Thanks a lot!

scot079 wrote in post #5518900
The 580 II is a great flash, but I wouldn't say it's a starter model...if you think you're gonna get serious with it, then you'll probably buy it eventually!

I started with a 430EX then traded it in for the 580 once I got the hang of lighting.

Thanks I will definatley look into that!

nadtz wrote in post #5518904
Its worth it to take some time and read up on the system and 3rd party dedicated options out there. After a lot of reading and testing i ended up going with metz (for somewhat specific reasons) for my on camera dedicated flash and I've been very happy with it. Others will recommend Sigma and Canon, as you are the one who is going to end up using it, make sure it suits your needs not someone elses.

I agree! I have been doing a lot of reading & research! Thanks a lot for the advice!

scot079 wrote in post #5518900
The 580 II is a great flash, but I wouldn't say it's a starter model...if you think you're gonna get serious with it, then you'll probably buy it eventually!

I started with a 430EX then traded it in for the 580 once I got the hang of lighting.

I may go with the 430ex until I get the hang of it! I LOVE taking pictures! I always have, I just really got interested in wanting to learn how to "improve" my skills! I have a great camera if I can learn how to use the darn thing!

sevans16 wrote in post #5518828
Get a Canon EX flash. either the 430 or the 580. I am not sure what the feature differences are but the 580 has a higher light output and can be a Master to control other flashes for multi flash setups. I do not personally know anything about the 430. I would say to staqy with a newer Canon flash so you can take advantage of all the features that the Canon System offers.

Several people have recommended the 430! Im gonna look into that one! Thanks for your help!

I'd definitely advise going with the 580EX or 580EXII, right out of the gate. If you use flash a lot (which you will, once you learn to use it well), you're going to want the best one. In this case, we're really not talking about breaking the bank ($250 for the 430EX, vs. probably $350-ish on eBay for an older 580EX, or $420 for a 580EXII), I'm gonna have to advise saving yourself the hassle and the money lost in eventually making the transition from a lesser flash to a better one.

Also, if you press the small square button with the quote mark and the plus on it at the bottom of posts, you can quote several of them in a single post

bieber wrote in post #5519761
I'd definitely advise going with the 580EX or 580EXII, right out of the gate. If you use flash a lot (which you will, once you learn to use it well), you're going to want the best one. In this case, we're really not talking about breaking the bank ($250 for the 430EX, vs. probably $350-ish on eBay for an older 580EX, or $420 for a 580EXII), I'm gonna have to advise saving yourself the hassle and the money lost in eventually making the transition from a lesser flash to a better one.

Also, if you press the small square button with the quote mark and the plus on it at the bottom of posts, you can quote several of them in a single post

Ha thanks for advice about flash & how to leave quotes!! You are the second person that has told me about the "quote" thingy! But when I click on it nothing happens! Or doesnt appear to anyway!

Thanks

Click on the quotation marks for every post you'd like to quote except the final one which you'd click the actual "quote" button.

Check out the Promaster Flashes..I have 2, plus the 580exII for my XTI..
www.promaster.com

I'd opt for a used 580Ex before the 430EX.By all means,get a flash that tilits and swivels the head.If you get a decent flash,you will need to learn bounce techniques.The 580EX II is even better(and more costly).

If you are sure you are in it for the long haul, get the 580EX.
I have the 430EX and wish I went for the 580EX instead.