Canon 430EX Speedlite Flash for Canon Pro1, Pro 90, G Series and all EOS SLR Cameras

We originally purchased this flash for my wife who didn't want a huge flash making her camera heavy while shooting 6 hours worth of a wedding/reception with me. However, if you plan on using this flash for anything other than horrible family shots, be prepared to purchase some sort of modifier (attachable softbox, bounce card, etc.). On its own, it's not worth much. We're actually about to send this back in exchange for another 580EX (that I currently shoot with). Spend a bit more and get a much better flash.

This is a versatile flash with many angle adjustments available. It has plenty of flash power for most users. Definitely a better choice than the 220EX.

Affordable and works just fine if you don't need the slave capability. And it actually recharges significantly faster the the more expensive model. I'm happy with it.

This is the first external flash that I have ever bought. My camera is a Rebel XTI. I have been getting more serious about my hobby and decided to start upgrading a little at a time.

You just can't beat this flash. There is NO comparison between this and the built in flash! WOW. Just being able to bounce it off the walls or ceiling is a HUGE improvement. Using it as a fill flash outside it GREAT as well. It works well right out of the box so you don't have to learn every little thing about it to start using it right away.

Yes, it adds some hefty weight to the top of your camera but it's worth it to me. I am sure the 580EX is a great flash but it was way more than I needed and cost too much for me. If I ever decide to upgrade to the 580EX then I can use this 430EX as a slave flash.

I also looked at the 430EXII but decided against it due to the extra cost versus the extra features. I just don't need the faster recharge times and this EX isn't very loud at all. There some other features on the EXII as well but like I said, it wasn't worth the extra cost in my opinion.

GET RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES! I can't stress this enough. You will go broke using regular batteries. Spend the money and get some 15 minute rechargeables and you will always have a fresh set of batteries.

Look at the 430EXII as well and see if the extra features and improvements are worth it for you. Also, look at the 580EX. I love this flash and it will grow with me if I ever move up to the 580EX.

As a self proclaimed "Natural Light Photographer" I have diligently maneuvered my kids to all available windows in my house. I do this in my quest for "Light Mastery" ; experimenting with different angles and depth of field (ie. Apertures). I patiently waited for my magic hour, a time where the sun's ray filters through the window and gives me splendid natural light.
Unfortunately, because of my new work schedule I can no longer wait for the magic hour and the Speedlite 430EX became a new tool in my arsenal. Now I can take pics of my kids indoor and at night with natural looking light.
How do I get that light? I do it using the 430EX as a bounce flash. I also do it by using an off shoe flash cord, with this set up I can move the light pretty much any angle allowing me to get different effects. The 430EX with an off shoe cord is also a very powerful combination when shooting outside on a sunny day because you can point the flash anywhere to lightened the harsh shadows created by sun.