I need a flash for my cannon 20D that can go further that the flash that came with the camera.?

Question

It needs to reach 100 feet or further and the one on the camera does not do the job. Can't afford to spend a lot of money.

Answer 1

Good morning;  

Teacup's answer is the first one I wanted to suggest, but it is not clear that it will meet the "a lot of money" specification.  I use the 580 EX II on mine with very good results, but it also has limitations.  

Normally, you will take the lens opening (the "f number"), and divide that into the guide number of the flash for that ASA/ISO sensitivity (the GN), and that will give you the distance for the correct exposure.  Alternately, if you know the distance, divide that into the GN, and you will get the "f number"  required for that distance.  

100 feet is not easy.  If you have a maximum f 2.0 lens opening and the guide number (GN) of the flash for the ASA/ISO sensitivity you are using is 200 for feet, or more, you can do it.  Otherwise, you need to go up in ASA/ISO sensitivity, get a bigger lens (smaller f number), get a bigger flash (higher GN), or move closer.  There are some laws of physics that have not yet been repealed.  

So, what are we left with?  Talk to your local camera dealer, check the magazines, or go onto the flash manufacturer's (Vivitar, SunPak, Braun, Metz, et cetera) web sites to see what equipment is available for what prices.  Also check the used equipment markets.  Often you can do very well there, if you still look for something that has the GN rating you need.  

By the way, with my old Honeywell Strobonar 600 fed by a 510 Volt battery, ASA 400 film, and an f 1.4 lens, I could go out to about 1000 feet.  

Enjoy;  

Ralph Javins

Answer 2

try yahoo search or adorama.com

Answer 3

There is a Cannon Speed-lite 580EX ll that will go with the 20 D