canon flash and grip

[jersmith]

I am in the processing of purchasing a Canon 40D and was looking for thoughts on flash recommendation?

Was also wanting to get thoughts on the Battery Grip.
 Appears that it would very useful.

Thanks, Jersmith

[mondaly]

I use a 430EX flash because I seldom use flash and I don't have those auxiliary equipments to fully utilize the 580EX.
I have a grip on my Rebel XT, because without it, the camera body is just too small.
On the other hand, I don't plan on getting a grip for my 5D.
I think the 40D is similar to 5D in terms of body size, so you should be fine without a grip unless you have large hands or you want the extra battery power.

[Bob Atkins]

I'd agree the 430EX is probably the best bang for the buck unless you are really serious about flash use and want to use a wireless multiple flash system. If that's what you want you'll need a 580EX II for the master controller and another one or a 430EX as the wireless slave.

See http://www.bobatkins.com/photography/eosfaq/ex_speedlites.html for a comparision of the current Canon Speedlites.

I've never found the need for a grip on the 40D. I suppose if you worked in portrait mode all the time a grip with a vertical shutter release might be nice. Sure the grip has two batteries, but I've never found changing the battery that much of a big deal. I just carry a spare.