Flash Recommendations

[cpasley]

As I am looking into some additions to my camera since an upgrade is out of the question at the moment but one thing I realize I am needing is an upgraded flash, I dont need anything fancy (since fancy is also pricey) ,I was browsing ebay but I know some came out for film cameras and its at that point I figured out I know little to nothing, so what do I need to look for and how much am I looking to spend or in my case save up for ,thanks as always guys

[Jay Beckman]

Canon, Nikon or Other?

[Joe Copalman]

Good: http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Speedlite-270EX-Digital-Cameras/dp/B001XURPR2

Better: http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Speedlite-II-Digital-Cameras/dp/B001CCAISE

Best: http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Speedlite-580EX-Digital-Cameras/dp/B000NP3DJW

[cpasley]

Wow thanks Joe Joe those are going to work, priced not as bad as I figured, the 430 looks like my best option

[BillOz]

Chris,

You should also take a look at the Sigma and other 3rd party flashes.
Just like with 3rd party lenses, you can usually get equal performance for much less money.
I've borrowed a Sigma flash which has equal power to the Canon 580, for 1/2 the money.  As always with 3rd party stuff, there are some Canon features not usually supported, but take a look if you're looking for value.

[cpasley]

Thats a good idea too, but my main concern is finding a flash thats not really compatible with a DLSR, perhaps if I find a stellar deal on a used flash what key things to look for

[Jay Beckman]

Beware of the voltages involved via the hotshoe / flash interface...

Incompatibility = Bad JuJu

Most modern third party flashes are ok but you have to start being very careful as you go backwards in time towards units that were originally manufactured for film bodies.  All are fine for off camera flash work with radio triggers, etc but not automatically ok for on-camera.

[jslugman]

I fried a 10D like that once Jay, No fun.