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Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras | List Price: $319.99
Discount Price: Too low to display
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Brand: Canon
Binding: Electronics
Features: - Includes Speedlite 430EX II, Soft Case, Shoe Stand, Instruction book (EFS), and Warranty card with Service Network List (BLANK)
- Superior build quality, including a metal foot for added strength
- Approximately 20% faster recycling time, compared to previous 430EX
- One-touch quick-lock mechanism for easy attaching/detaching flash from camera
- Full flash control possible on camera menu, with compatible EOS digital SLRs
Good first flash but leaves you wanting more...... [Posted on 2008-10-17]
I got my 430EX II on a chance, i had placed order for a 430EX and noticed a local store had the 430EX II for a bit more hence I ended up getting this one.
First off the flash is very well built. The adjustable head is solid and yet easy to move (90 vertical, 180 horizontal). The flash instructions are simple and it integrates with my Canon 40D almost all the time. Its a good beginner flash but after a while you are left asking for a bit more 'power'. Do not get me wrong, it is a good flash and has saved countless shots, however I wish sometimes it had a bit more reach (especially when bouncing off a wall).
It has a very fast recycle time. I am using E2 Lithium batteries and they are going strong with over 1200 shots taken. I have noticed it now takes about 1 second to recycle between shots. It still is very silent on its recharge.
I also love the convenience of changing flash settings from the camera itself and I love the much needed focus assist lamp for dark areas.
However, I have to say that sometimes the ETTL II does not pick up the zoom position of the lens. This makes for dark images on my 40D as it does not pick up the zoom information and you end up with darker pictures.
If you do get an external flash I highly suggest you get yourself a omnibounce or something for the times there is no walls nearby to bounce off. A good omni bounce or diffuser will make your pictures stand out!
So the question is should you get the 430EX II or save money on the 430EX (if available). Well the 430EX is cheaper, however the 430EX II seems to have its benefits however small they may be. For me the benefits out weight the cost however it is not enough to warrent buying the 430 EX II. I am happy with my purchase however people in the community do say I should have just paid the additional 70 and gotten the 580EX II and you know they are right!
Great Flash [Posted on 2008-11-14]
I wish I could tell you all of the neat features this flash has but the truth is, I don't understand them yet. What I can tell you is that I bought this flash to go along with my first SLR (the Rebel XSI) and it works really great. From a beginners perspective, it saves my camera battery and I definately get better coverage than the built-in flash. The reason I choose this particular model over the existing 430EX model is because there are some minor improvements such as recycle time and a metal foot but also because I read that some of the settings for this flash are [additionally] accessible via the camera's menu system. This probably isn't important to some of the pros out there but for me it's nice to know that I have the bases covered for when I grow in to the camera.
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