What lens/external flash? $500

Hey all,

Right now I'm sporting a Canon Rebel XSi. I currently have the kit lens (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) and the EF 50mm f/1.8 II Lens. And if it's relevant, I also have the Gary Fong puffer pop up flash diffuser (http://www.amazon.com …ics&qid=1257450​971&sr=8-1)

Basically I have an unexpected $500 coming my way and I wanted to use this extra surprise cash to enhance my photo taking abilities. As I see it I can spend it 3 ways; I can buy a new lens, I can buy an external flash, or I can compromise a little and get both and fit it into the budget.

I wouldn't say I'm a "hardcore" photographer but I'm definitely an enthusiast. In the order or of what I shoot

1) Portraits (girlfriends a model so it's always fun, done some work on model mayhem)
2) Landscapes
3) Every now and then macro shots

So yah. I could really use all of your recommendations and expertise as far as how I should spend the $500. Should get a new lens, a new flash, or both with the money and which models should I get?

Thanks in advance =)

-Michael

I'd go with external flash as portraits came in first in what you like to do.

For the external flash I was really looking at the Canon Speedlite 420EX/430EX II which still leaves me ~$250 to play with

Fastfwd13 wrote in post #8961129
I'd go with external flash as portraits came in first in what you like to do.

Plus to that.. flash all the way

The flash has being the one thing that made an immediate impact in the way I take pictures

And if you plan to get into portrait deeper I would try and aim to get a 580EX or EXII that will give you Wireless ETTL master plus other features that might come handy in the future

It will bring new life to you XSI kit combo

I'd say go the lighting route. 18-55 and nifty-fifty are Good glass and can take fantastic photos. Working with studio lights is a world apart. So my cchoice would be studio lights if opting for Portraits.

Landscapes, may be a UWA? If macro is not a what you shoot regularly, then I'd be holding it for the time being.

I would go for a used 85mm f/1.8 and 430EX.

So what do I do with that extra $250 =P

i second swjim

Good responses I was in the same boat as you.

Is the 85mm a little overkill when I already have the 50mm? Is the difference that big?

Or should I shoot for something with zoom range (since the kit lens is so awful as a walk-around lens)

430EX and a good tripod!

no question you should get a speedlite...

go get at least the 430EX, the 420EX has no manual controls which will be important eventually.

$500 is a lot of money...

after getting the flash, see what else you are missing save whatever money you have left for another purchase. one step at a time

430ex, light stand, umbrella + swivel, wireless triggers. Throw in a manual flash later when you're up to it.

which flash and trigger should i buy? :s

Don't overlook the Sigma flashes, they give you a lot more bang for the buck. I have the EF500 DG Super II and it was done wonders for me, has full manual controls and more power than a 430EX.