Flash for 350D - on a budget

[sam_r]

what can you guys & gals reccomend with regards to a flash for a 350D?

Why are they so expensive? lol

I need one for a party - outside and very dark. Is there any tips to reduce the focusing time as my camera seems to do allsorts when I press shoot, apart from take a picture.

Thanks in advance!

[marctwo]

I'd go for the Canon 430EX. Anything less would be false economy.

www.digital-cameras.com/accessories/digital-cameras/flash-guns--lights--and-accessories/canon-speedlite-430ex.html?refid=pricerunner&GCID=C15769x005-Accessorie&KEYWORD=Canon%20Speedlite%20430EX

[_dobbo_]

Sam, you don't say what lens you have - but if you are finding it takes a long time to shoot it's probably because the lens is hunting for focus. A way to avoid this is to pre-focus by half pressing the shutter release, and giving the lens time to focus, then take the image when it's done.

Or do what I did and sell your woman into slavery and use the money to buy expensive lenses. BWAAA HAAHAHHAHAHHAAAAA!

[Gemm]

It's quite normal that the lenses hunt in dim light (although obviously less apparent with more expensive gear). If you get a flash, AF assist beam may help in this situation a bit.

[marctwo]

I should add...

Using flash well is quite a tricky thing and requires considerable practice to get good results (unless you like the Chernobyl look).

In terms of focussing, the camera uses contrast to focus so try to point your camera at some high contrast sharp edges to help it out. Point it at an area of solid colour and it will struggle.

This is useful for understanding how it works...

http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/

[Gemm]

And get a Stofen diffuser as well. It's very useful.

And here's another great link for flash photography using CAnon equipment.

http://photonotes.org/articles/eos-fl

Edited by Gemm on Friday 9th June 11:22

[cannedheat]

just wondering, is your 350d using the built in flash to help focus in low light and at night?

[sam_r]

Thanks for the links - very helpful

Yes the flash is helping it focus ie. flashes very fast before shot?!?