What flash to buy?

image by Mark (POTN)

Many first time DSLR users that end up taking the professional path soon realize that their second purchase will be an external flash. Though the on-camera units are becoming more and more powerful, they limit creativity and should only be used when it's the only option. The small but powerful flash can not be adjusted, excerpts a harsh, generally unfocused light and is mounted to a single location. But it's a flash, right? Why do you need an external flash? Here are a few of the common benefits:

- the ability to adjust the power output
- enables you to focus the light
- you can point the light at the optimal angle, which is not always directly at the subject
- more power when you need it
- the option to operate wirelessly
- increased battery life of your camera
- gives a strong fill light outdoors

Of course an external flash also has it's drawbacks:

- slow recycle time (grows smaller and smaller upon new releases; can be remedied by external battery pack)
- extra equipment to carry
- must buy extra batteries to power the flash (cheap)
- must shell out the cash (from $100 - $500)

As you can see the benefits make the drawbacks seem insignificant. Perhaps the most important aspect of making this type of purchase is simply that it allows you to shoot in situations that you originally could not. So which flash do you buy? The latest and greatest? Is old tech just as good as new? Do I need to get the manufacturer's flash unit or can I use a third party?

When considering your purchase, think about what your needs are. What are your plans in the future? Look for specifications like TTL, master/slave, tilt/swivel, recycle time, w/s (power output). These are all important when making your decision. As far as the brand, I like to stick with manufacturer's. Who knows their products better than them? However certain 3rd party flashes do offer good reviews, such as the Yongnuo YN-600. You will also find that 3rd party flashes are as much as 90% cheaper than the manufacturer's units. The thing that you do not want to do is purchase a flash from ancient times, as there may be voltage variances or other differences in the circuitry that may not match up with modern gear.

Manufacturer's units are expensive, but they are usually worth it. Take the 580exii for example. It is almost twice as powerful as the previous model, offers wireless control of other flashes, smaller increments of adjustment, faster recycle time and the list goes on. The price tag is hefty at $399, but many Photographers will greatly benefit from these features. Many 3rd party flashes offer slow recycle times and short battery life. This is ok for the at home Family Photographer, but not for the professional. These are simply tools for the job.

I always say if you are going to purchase, make an investment. Spend the money upfront rather than purchasing just to make an upgrade in the future. If you are serious about your craft, then it will pay off. With the rapid advancement of technology, and constant releases due to steady competition, it becomes easier to get the "previous model." The 430exii is an amazing flash, but we only said that until the 580 was released. Find out what you need and what you can afford, and always carry more batteries than you need.

For more information on individual flash models, check out http://speedlights.net/