New Flash or Built-in Flash?

[mangtarn]

recently i've been wanting to do some portraits. but i don't have a flash. I think i'm gonna get a used 430 EXII. but should i work with my built-in for a little while first to get some experience with flashes before i drop 300 bucks on the flash itself?

 

[Netskimmer]

If by "do some portraits" you mean receive payment for services then no, do not use your built-in flash. If you are just playing around then I suppose it's no big deal to mess around with it but I doubt it will help you in your decision on what hot-shoe flash to get. A hot-shoe flash, even a relativity cheap one will open up a whole new world for you. I have a Vivitar 285HV, not the greatest flash out there but it only costs $85 or so new. I will probably upgrade in time but when I do I will still be able to use this flash as an additional light source. The important thing is to do your research before buying to decide what direction you want to go in.

 

[Tiberius47]

Couldn't agree more. A hotshoe flash gives you so many more options compared to the built in flash. In fact, seeing the terrible results you get with built in flash, I wouldn't be surprised if that turned you OFF getting an external flash!