What Flash to get?

Ive been debating getting an external flash, and I need to know what its gonna run me. Ive been watching eBay and prices are all over the board as well as the models. I've checked the Canon USA site, but there not all listed. I was wondering of the different models, what are they good for, such as shooting distance, power adjustments, special features, etc. I shoot mostly my daughter, but the occasional wedding and stage show for favors, I am pretty sure the 5xx model is out of my range but the info would be great. Then once I have the info, I will be looking for one to buy. Thanks in advance!
Brenda

The Canon 430ex sounds like a good option for you. I picked mine up for just under $250

i personally just saved up for the 580ex ii, i love it and am glad it waited till i could afford it. I got one for around $380.

If thats still out of your range, i'd probably wait till the 430ex ii becomes available on the US market... because from what i've been reading, the 430ex ii will be only slightly more than the 430ex is right now until it has been out for a while.
but that means the 430ex will be something like 50 dollars less (just a guess)

so whether you want to pay a bit more for the 430ex ii, or get the 430ex for cheaper... i'd wait till the prices bounce around with the release of the ii. (pretty sure it'll be early-mid october, it's already available in canada and the UK)

I love my 430EX, it's a perfect first flash. It's smaller than the 580 and is only about 1 stop less powerful.

You can get it for $233 with free shipping form Amazon.com right now. The 430EXII is listed for $100 more. I like the added features of the 430EXII, but I personally do not think they are worth $75-100.
http://www.amazon.com …ics&qid=1222728​035&sr=8-1

You can also find them for around $200 used here on the forums if you keep an eye out.