Choosing a Flashgun

[John Mc]

I'm in the market for a Flashgun, Well, My Fiance is buying me one for my birthday.
I've had a look at two,and im unsure which to get. The Two are Canon's 430 ExII Cost arounf £215 Gbp. But ive also been looking at a 3rd party flash, A Metz 48 Af-1, i'm able to get it around £135 Gbp. The metz won a few awards last year over canons 430,but im curious if its better to go 3rd party or stick with canon. The metz is more powerful and has a few more features. And i think ive read it has a modeling lamp built in. Which would be handy,as i would be using it for Portraits and an up and coming Wedding.(it's not a wedding purchase,i can do it without just handy to have)

Im not asking to make a deccision, im just asking what folks think would be the better buy. i'll probably end up with the Metz, i'm just asking for experience with either item's.

John

 

[gsgary]

Tell her to get the credit card out and get a 580EX

 

[John Mc]

She's getting a Tax return Gary. and ive told her im putting my foot down at £150 and i;ll pay the rest. but my gear saving account has about £50 in it. so i can only get one or the other