Macro flash, Which one?

Hi, just looking into getting a flash but having trouble deciding on one.
I have a 450d and tamron 90mm and the lens blocks the subject if i get too close. I see lots of people using a 430ex and off camera cord and flash bracket. I was looking at getting this setup but for similar money i can get the sigma em140..... Is this any good?
Which would be better?
Also are there any cheaper options for flash that will work well with my camera?

Thanks,

Brett

Difficult to answer - both have their pros and cons.
Main cons of the macroflashes are difficulty in diffusing and getting those dual catchlights in eyes. Obviously though easier to get light where you need it.
I've been doing macro shooting for 4 years now and still use a bracket mounted 430 Ex.
Brian V.

I'm currently using a 430EX II on a seperate tripod which seems to work ok for me i was considering a flash bracket but can't find the one i want yet so i may just stick with what i am doing. but seems ok.

the sigma one sucks..if your going to buy one get the canon one.i use to have the sigma one..lighting is harsh.

What about the 580 EX II?

macro junkie wrote in post #7510085
the sigma one sucks..if your going to buy one get the canon one.i use to have the sigma one..lighting is harsh.

this might be the case but the price sometimes for some people is the main reason for buying. the jump from sigma to the canon macro flash is massive.

G'day Brett, and welcome to POTN from a fellow Brisbanite

Do you think you'll be wanting a flash for "normal" type photography? I'd think you would soon enough anyway, and would recommend getting a speedlight like the 430EX or 580EXII. If you really get into macro you can always get a macro-specific flash down the track. But a speedlight will serve you for many different styles of shooting, not just macro.

You could save yourself getting off-camera chord and bracket for now also. With a speedlight in your camera's hotshoe and a diffuser like the Lumiquest Softbox, the light will get over the front of your lens and give great soft light with a simple and cheap setup. It will look something like this.

PS - have you seen/checked out the Brisbane "coffee club" thread?