The Canon EOS and Photography Forums

I've been reading and searching a lot about flash photography and all the possibilities it brings when it's done right. I have the 50D and 430EXII. I was looking into the 580EXII as an extra flash and master trigger. Or get another 430EXII and the ST-E2. But it's a lot of money all together.I want to expand my flash equipments, but on a budget. I know all Canon flashes and transmitter seem to be the best option. Any ideas on Third party flashes or transmitters you recommend? Thanks

No. I'd go with all Canon. Wireless flash can be a little tricky and if you stick with all Canon gear you'll get maximum compatibility between all the components. I'd be very hesitatnt to throw third party flashes or controllers into the setup. If you do that and something doesn't work, who do you blame (and who will help you out)?

I'm happy to use 3rd party remote releases, lens hoods, filters, lens caps etc. which aren't technically complex devices that have to communicate with the camera via a technically complex interface. However for wireless flash systems I'd stick with Canon.

The Canon Speedlite 580EX II (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000NP3DJW/bobatkinsphotogr) is pretty hard to beat. Though it's about $200 more than the STE2, I still think it's a better deal since you get all the flash functions thrown in as well as a master controller.

Thanks for the help Bob. I will go ahead with the 580EXII.  ;)

I would go along with Bobs answer. The Hong Kong  transceivers seem to be a hit and miss product. Cheap and nasty. You pays your money and you takes your chance.

Cheap of Canon's part not to include transmitting ability. Glad to see the 7D remedied that omission. Still the ST-E2 offers an added pert as does the 580 EX II.