BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: New Answers

Photography Question 

BetterPhoto Member
 

How to choose a flash


Hello, I'm newbie to photography. Recently I've bought Canon Rebel Ti and now I need an advice what kind of flash should I buy.
There are dedicated & no dedicated, TTL compatible & no compatible, etc. This is a little bit confusing. I don't want to spend a lot. Mine friend suggested to buy Sunpack 383 Super.
Any suggestion?
Thanks
Eugene


To love this question, log in above
March 07, 2005

 

Jon Close
  A simple, non-dedicated flash such as the Sunpak 383 Super is a terrific choice. Two things, though:

(1) The flash requires that you manually set the lens aperture to match it's exposure program. Thus, you can only use it in Av and M exposure modes. This in itself is not a problem if you are familiar with using Av and M.

(2) The flash does not have a focus assist light, and with the flash mounted, the Rebel's focus assist light (flickering flash) cannot be used either. That makes low light focusing a problem.

Probably a better choice for would be Canon's 420EX, Sigma EF 500 DG, Sunpak PZ40X, or other maker's E-TTL compatible flash. These can be used in any of the Rebel's auto exposure modes and have patterned near-infrared focus assist beams that will allow the camera to focus in complete darkness. E-TTL compatibility is preferred over traditional TTL because it will enable the more advanced features in the Rebel Ti, such as FP high speed flash sync (sync at all shutter speeds rather than just 1/90 and slower).

If you later switch into a Canon digital SLR, these cannot use traditional TTL. The digital SLRs need either non-dedicated or E-TTL dedication.


To love this comment, log in above
March 07, 2005

 

Victoria G.
  Best to stay with Canon flash. This is what the camera shop tells me, something to do with the electronics. The Canon 420EX is not that expensive about $180, and you will have all the functions of your camera and flash. The E-TTL (Evaluative Through The Lens) Takes care of a lot of the guesswork. You can use the 420EX as a slave flash later with a 550EX or 580EX. I have had a Canon camera and flash for many years with no problems. You can also use a stroboframe bracket with an adaptor cord for even better results.


To love this comment, log in above
April 11, 2005

 
Log in to respond or ask your own question.