Canon 430ex or 580exII?

Question

I basically just take pictures of my daughter. I will be taking family pictures of my fam and maybe some friends for christmas. Is the 430ex enough? Should I get the 430ex or wait and save up for the 580ex.

Answer 1

I have the 430ex and think it is enough.  It has a built in diffuser that I can pull down, so that is one reason I chose it, besides it was cheaper!  

Answer 2

Personally, I'd just stick with the 430ex. For family and friends, I can't imagine a situation where this flash would leave you needing anything more. If you're willing to wait a bit, I imagine the 430EX II should be on the shelves before christmas. If you want to use the flash now, then I'd just get the 430EX and make pictures during that time you'd otherwise be waiting for the newer model.

Answer 3

Depends on your budget.  If you have the money go with the 580

Personally, I got 2 sigma Super DG500 flashes (master and slave) and work pretty good for a lot less than the Canon flashes

Good luck!

Answer 4

One of the main differences between these two flashes is that the 580EX II is a stronger flash. The 430EX has a Guide Number of 141'  while the 580EX II has a Guide Number of 190'. The 430EX is not under powered for many uses, but the 580EX II's significant power advantage can become important whenbouncing light off a high ceiling or using a flash modifier (such as an umbrella, softbox or diffuser).

The other main difference is that the 580EX II can be used as a master to trigger other Canon wireless slave flashes while the 430EX can only act as a slave flash.

If any of these are important to you, then buy the 580EX II... otherwise, the 430EX is a fine choice. It is slightly lighter, smaller, and cheaper as well.