Flash Purchase - Strobist Method

[gtkelly]

The only flash I have for my XTI is the on camera. It's weak and photos taken with it look horrible. Standard stuff there.

I've been reading the Strobist site (http://www.strobist.com) and have a question about flash. Is there any benefit to getting a Canon flash (430ex, 580ex) for this method? Will they even work in manual mode?

I think it makes sense to get 2 vivitar flashes (non-dedicated manual) for the price of one canon flash. But I would lose the ability for TTL lens metering if I did want it on camera for any reason.

Thoughts\Opinions? I've changed my mind 300 times on this one...

 

[Mike_E]

If you are going to commit to the off camera style then no, a cannon flash is of no benefit.

You can use other flashes on your canon if the trigger voltage is within tolerances but if you are going to be doing this much then it would pay you go with the OEM flash. So the question is how much on camera flash (and remember that the best use for on camera flash is for daylight fill) will you be doing?

 

[table1349]

Two vivitars are going to be cheaper. Remember you will need a good flash meter to get proper exposure. A couple of dedicated Canon flashes with the ST-E2 gives you ETTL while off camera. Expensive as well.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/164264-REG/Canon_2478A002_ST_E2_Transmitter.html

Yes Canon flashes work in manual mode. The new 580EX II even has a pc socket for things like pocket wizards or a flash cord. I'm not sure your XTI has a pc socket for flash connection. If not you can pick up a hot shoe converter to give you one.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/133218-REG/Medalight_PGHSPC_Hot_Shoe_to_PC.html

I don't know what your budget is but you might look at Alienbees packages.
http://www.alienbees.com/packages.html
The Digi Bee is a nice start and for mobility add a Vagabond portable power pack. http://www.alienbees.com/battery.html