Is it worth me getting another flash?

I am fairly new, but I really want to expand my options for shooting. My main focus is on portraiture (kids, families, bridal, seniors etc.). I have a 430exII and a long ETTL cord. The 580ex II is on sale right now and I am seriously considering getting one.

I have been using window light on one side of my subject and flash with softlighter II on the other.

Will having a second flash allow me to do a lot more lighting wise or do most people find that they are using one most of the time?

I want to be able to shoot outdoors and indoors. I love simple backgrounds especially white. I have heard a lot of discussion about blasting the background to wash it out and bring out the subject (is this done with the flash manual?)

Any insight into this would be greatly appreciated.

You need a backup. Once you get into multiple flashes radio slaves like the skyports start to come in really handy. Wireless ETTL is only semi-reliable.

Have you given any thought to strobes like Alien Bees?
At one point I was planning on buying more 580s but I'm glad I bought the AB lights instead. Studio strobes are very versatile and put out quite a bit of power too and compared to buying a few 580s, their cheaper.

Patrick wrote in post #7946732
Have you given any thought to strobes like Alien Bees?
At one point I was planning on buying more 580s but I'm glad I bought the AB lights instead. Studio strobes are very versatile and put out quite a bit of power too and compared to buying a few 580s, their cheaper.

true, unless OP wants portability. having speedlights are still more portable even if you use vegabond for the ABs

You could use a 580 on your ETTL cord to trigger your 430 as a hair light or background light. Add some gels to the mix and you have any color background you want.

Patrick wrote in post #7946732
Have you given any thought to strobes like Alien Bees?
At one point I was planning on buying more 580s but I'm glad I bought the AB lights instead. Studio strobes are very versatile and put out quite a bit of power too and compared to buying a few 580s, their cheaper.

I haven't yet... I was hoping to use the 580 for its IR abilities and portability. I will check the AB out though... thanks.