Camera Flashes

Canon Speedlite 430EX II Camera Flash

Canon Speedlite 430EX II

The Canon Speedlite 430EX II is an upgraded version of the 430EX, and like the other Speedlite ca?? “II, ca?? upgrades, features some excellent improvements over its younger sibling. This Canon flash is an excellent mid-range flash, suitable for amateur photography and well-suited to specific professional work, or to be kept as a backup.

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Among the improvements offered by the Speedlite 430EX II over the 430EX is a recycle time that is 20% faster, meaning you will be that much more likely to catch the perfect moment instead of waiting around for the flash to recycle for your next shot. The recycle is silent, as well, doing away with even the quietest whine or buzz while recycling.

The Canon Speedlite 430EX II has added a metal mounting foot, increasing both durability and stability over the 430EX, and now makes use of Canon ca??a?cs newer quick-release locking mechanism, making quick flash changes faster and communication between the camera and the flash more secure. Finally, when used with a Canon EOS camera this flash can detect sensor sizes and adjust the flash coverage angle to suit.

Here are some great features of the Canon Speedlite 430EX II flash:

• E-TTL II for compatible Canon EOS cameras and EF series lenses

• Flash controls settable through camera’s LCD screen on compatible EOS digital SLR models

• LCD information panel

• Flash head can be tilted and swiveled for bounce flash

• Built-in wide-angle pull-down diffuser panel (covers focal lengths down to 14mm on a full-frame camera)

What are the downsides? According to user reviews, the wireless mode is a bit finicky, as it operates via infrared signals (essentially like Bluetooth). This means that the flash and camera need to be within beam range of one another, without major obstructions between them. While this is an issue only in very unusual circumstances, it ca??a?cs worth considering. Users also report that the buttons can be a little stiff out of the box, and require a bit of time to loosen up.

Compatibility-wise, this Canon Speedlite 430EX II camera flash is fully compatible with all Canon EOS bodies, though older bodies may not be able to make use of all of the flash ca??a?cs features. For the price, this flash represents a great compromise between high-end professional flashes that will require users to mortgage their houses, and low-end flashes offering little in terms of flexibility. It ca??a?cs a fine workhorse, up to most of the challenges that a photographer might face.

Amazon invests a lot of time and also money into keeping their own pricing competitive. As of this date, the price was really attractive. Please click here to check the current price and find out if that is still the case.

Here ca??a?cs what one of the owners had to say about the Canon Speedlite 430EX II:

Canon Speedlite 580EX II Camera Flash

The Canon Speedlite 580EX II is an improved version of the relatively recently released 580EX. The company, it seems, saw enough room for improvement over the 580EX that they released the 580EX II hot on its heels. The improvements are noticeable, however, and worth the release of the new model, according to any number of user reviews.

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The Canon 580EX II flash features a 20% faster recycling time over the 580EX, meaning more photos can be taken in quick succession. Whether in the studio or at a special event, this gives a photographer a lot of added flexibility. This upgrade also features an all-metal foot, for a sturdier product, more able to handle the occasional unavoidable drop or bump than its predecessor.

This Canon flash communicates well with compatible cameras, which include all Canon EOS 1D Mark III Digital SLR and higher versions, both film and digital. Auto conversion of flash coverage and white balance information pass seamlessly from the flash to the camera and back. The flash also features a full 180-degree swivel in either direction, allowing photographers to control flash levels and correct for bounce within the frame.

Here are some great features of the Canon Speedlite 580EX II flash:

• Approx. 20% faster recycling time compared to 580EX

• Superior build quality, including a metal foot for higher rigidity

• Max. Guide No. 58 at 105mm setting (GN 190, feet)

• Auto conversion of flash coverage with compatible digital SLR cameras

• White Balance info communicated instantly to compatible digital SLR cameras

Aesthetically, this camera flash resembles the clunkier flashes of yesteryear more than the sleeker, low-profile flashes coming into vogue. With the Canon Speedlite 580EX II, this seems to have been a design choice on the part of Canon, giving the flash a traditional feel. One possible negative impact of this decision is weight. Especially when used in conjunction with larger lenses, this Canon flash makes for a pretty heavy camera to be used without a tripod for any length of time. It’s not prohibitive, but noticeable, according to user reviews.

Balancing out any negative reviews based on weight, users uniformly rave about the battery life of the Canon Speedlite 580EX II flash. The battery lasts a very long time as compared with other competing camera flashes in its price range, making it an excellent choice for extended use.

At the time of this date, the retail price was truly attractive. Amazon invests lots of time and money into trying to keep their pricing competitive. Click here to check the current price and see if that’s still the case.

Here’s what one of the owners had to say about the Speedlite 580EX II:

Canon Speedlite 270EX Camera Flash

The Canon Speedlite 270EX provides powerful flash technology in a compact model. It is compatible with all EOS bodies, and many Powershot point and shoot bodies. It is small enough to fit in most pockets with ease. While it is not the absolute top of the line, it is capable of yielding crisp, evocative results in amateur, professional, and artistic photography. The Speedlite 270EX comes with an array of useful features, including a bounce-flash function for producing more clean, crisp results. It also benefits from 2-step coverage for both 28mm and 50mm focal lengths.

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With many camera models, Canon 270EX flash can be operated through your camera’s system of menus via a reasonably intuitive and easy-to-learn user interface. This Canon flash is powered independently by its own double A batteries, and its internal power supply recharges in about four seconds after flashing. A balanced compromise between economy and quality, this reliable and effective flash lacks some of the more advanced features found on some of Canon’s more sophisticated models, but it is not designed to compete with the top industry standard photographic flashes currently available. It yields good visual results with a few bells and whistles, while lacking some of the more plush features available in other camera flashes.

Here are some great features of the Canon Speedlite 270EX flash:

• Compact, lightweight design – ideal for compact PowerShot cameras (G-series and select SX-series) and EOS Rebel class cameras

• 28mm and 50mm. 2-step Coverage Angle Selection

• Bounce feature for an even greater range of picture-taking options

• Simple set-up using the camera’s rear monitor

• Color temperature communication

The Canon Speedlite 270EX flash boasts a bounce-capable head. It has a very limited adjustment range, with no swivel and only ninety degrees of tilt. Getting it on target can sometimes be problematic due to these limitations, and can occasionally require some creative tweaking on the part of the user in order to get the subject matter just right. Fortunately though, Speedlite 270EX also has a two-position manual zoom option that enables you to focus the flash’s light on a very concentrated target, producing maximum results with minimum wasted energy.

With the interactive menu options, users can exert control over this camera flash. There is a manual flash option accessible here, as well as communication of color temperature to optimize white balance.

The fact that the Canon Speedlite 270EX runs on a pair of double-A batteries is more significant than it seems at first. Comparable camera flashes have typically run on twice as many, and four double-As adds a noticeable amount of weight to the device overall. More models are following this lead now, as technology makes such leaps of efficiency and power output easier.
While it does yield decent results and allow for some direct device management options, Canon 270EX should not be mistaken for a professional quality flash. Those looking to absolutely maximize their performance would do well to look elsewhere (in fact Canon themselves provide many fantastic selections in this vein, like the Speedlite 430EX II and Speedlite 580EX II). However, an amateur photographer who needs to broaden their selection of tools a bit in answer to problems such as excessive darkness or difficulty managing white balance, this camera flash is a simple, effective choice.

Amazon puts lots of time into keeping their own pricing competitive. Just click here to check the current cost of the Canon 270EX flash.

Here’s what one of the owners had to say about the Canon Speedlite 270EX flash:

Nikon SB 900 Camera Flash

The Nikon SB 900 is a relative newcomer to the Nikon line of flashes, and sits near the top of its game, when it comes to portable high-end camera flashes meant for flexible use on the go. The SB 900 flash   replaces the SB 800 in the Nikon Line, with the 800 model being discontinued completely. In keeping with newer high-end flashes, the Nikon Speedlight SB 900 has all kinds of on-board features, up to and including full wireless operations aE" great for studio work.

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Along with all of the new on-board technology the SB 900 features a brand new user interface, never before seen in Nikon products. More control buttons make the menus and features easier and more intuitive to maneuver through than previous models, meaning users are far more likely to take full advantage of the offerings of this Nikon flash.

The auto power adjust for zoom range has been significantly expanded over the previous model, with zoom coverage clocking in at 17-200mm for FX and 12-200mm for DX. The electronic brains of this camera flash can be easily kept current with regular firmware updates, allowing users to take advantage of new software and feature offerings from Nikon without having to purchase a new flash. The Nikon SB 900 also offers three distinct light distribution patterns, so users can make the best use of the flash whether inside or out, whether taking wide-angle shots or tight group portraits.

Here are some great features of the Nikon SB 900 flash:

• High-quality flash for standalone use or as part of a comprehensive lighting system

• Commander mode controls up to 3 Speedlight groups or unlimited individual Speedlights

• 4 wireless channel options; prominent master and remote control switch for wireless operation

• Auto power zoom coverage ranges from 17 to 200mm (FX format) to 12 to 200mm (DX format)
• 3 light distribution patterns; measures 3 x 5.7 x 4.7 inches (W x H x D) and weighs 14.6 ounces

On the negative sides, users report some frustration that the Nikon SB 900 flash features a plastic mount, rendering it much more susceptible to wear and accidental breakage than the preferred metal mount. The flash is also quite large, making it a poor choice for folks looking to pack a small or even medium-sized camera bag for use on the go. While the flash itself is more than equal to the challenge of mobile use, the size is prohibitive.

On the positive side of user reviews, this camera flash is super-quick to set and configure. The new, intuitive interface and the speed with which this flash can be installed and ready to go is impressive, and by all accounts makes for a great all-purpose flash.

The final consideration has to do with compatibility. In creating a top-end flash, intended for use with new cameras, the folks at Nikon have placed this flash out of reach of your legacy camera bodies. The SB 900 flash is meant for use with higher-end and newer cameras that use the i-TTL flash system. It will not work with lower-end and older versions of Nikon SLRs and DSLRs.

In the end, this Nikon flash is a great choice for serious amateurs and professionals alike, as it offers flexibility and speed that are hard to match. If you go into the purchase with your eyes open as to its limitations, the Speedlight SB 900 will perform well.

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HereaE™s what one of the owners had to say about the Nikon SB 900 speedlight flash:

Nikon SB 700 Camera Flash

Power, efficiency, and ease of use aE" these are just some of the hallmark qualities that the Nikon SB 700 can brag about. When taking photography to its next professional level, either as a hobby or for work, relying merely on your DSLRaE™s meager built-in flash will no longer be sufficient. That is when this Nikon flash will shine its fine features.
As an upgrade of its predecessor the Nikon SB 600, you can expect a set of new features that makes the Nikon SB 700 flash a better rival. And although it is not as flashy in specs list as the higher end Nikon SB 900, it has enough set of features that will allow any photographer more artistry in their outputs.

Amazon usually provides the best deal and you can check here for the current cost of the model SB 700.

Here are some great features of the Nikon SB 700 flash:

• Portable, Versatile Speedlight Unit

• Nikon’s Precision i-TTL Flash Control

• Complete Flash Head Positioning Freedom

• Hot Shoe and Wireless Operation
• Wireless Flash Control

To help you understand just how flashy this dedicated wireless flash device can get, here is a list of some of its finer points and how it is an improvement from previous Nikon SB models:

Intuitive User Interface

To benefit more from its wireless and remote capability, a dedicated flash device must include a user interface that allows easy control and better operation. And with this Nikon flashaE™ clear B&W LCD screen, simplified interface, and functional buttons, learning your way through its functions will be easy. PhotographeraE™s find its ergonomic design helpful in photo shoots aE" makes the task less complicated. Users also find the buttons quite an improvement from previous models.

Sends Filter Data To Camera

Another great feature this wireless camera flash is how it sends data to the main DSLR unit whenever filters are set into the flash. So when photographing indoors and you need to set filters to match the flash color with the ambient lighting, you will no longer have to manually set your DSLR camera to white balance. Many photographers find this very useful as it cuts reduces the number of procedures that needs to be done every photo shoot.

Bounce Card & Diffuser

Nikon DSLR owners will also rejoice that the Nikon SB 700 speedlight includes a bounce card and a Tupperware diffuser in the package. For all camera flashes, using a bounce card is important when photographing indoors. This diffuses the light to prevent output photographs from showing obvious flash snaps. This will make the picture look more natural. The Tupperware diffuser can also be used in the absence of a flash bouncing device.

Fast Recycling Time

Especially if you will be taking successive photographs such as in the case of covering weddings, birthday parties, and the like, a flash gun or flash unit that takes a lot of time to be ready for the next shot can be troublesome. Thankfully, the recycle time of the Nikon SB 700 is an improvement from the SB 600 model. The SB 600 takes about 3.5 seconds while the Speedlight SB 700 2.5 seconds to be ready again.

And these are just some of the superior and unmatched features of this Nikon flash. With positive reviews coming from professional and hobbyist photographers a alike, this flash device is sure to give new life to your art.

Amazon invests a lot of time as well as money into trying to keep their pricing competitive. At the time of this date, the purchase price was really attractive. Check current cost and see if that is still the case.

HereaE™s what one of the owners had to say about the Nikon SB 700 speedlight flash:

Camera Flashes – What Exactly Is Their Purpose?

Camera Flashes - Canon 580EX II

Camera flashes are utilized to produce an additional level of tactical illumination the minute the digital camera takes a picture. It’s almost not possible to get a digital camera nowadays without an in-built flash function, however these don’t always fulfill the photographer’s requirements.

Nearly all camera flashes give a sole pulse of bright flashlight which usually lasts somewhere between one 1000th to one 1200th of one second. Generally they offer flashlight which has a color heat range close to fifty-five hundred K, because this is generally thought to be the perfect brightness state to light up any darker picture yet still prevent recording the colours without correct fidelity.

Camera Flashes - Canon 430EX II

Camera flashes will be mainly utilized to supply lighting to the landscape or perhaps target that’s other wise badly lighted. Nevertheless that doesn’t have to be their single purpose. These tend to be also superb for transforming the actual level of the lighting, and various kinds of flash may be used to offer various final results. The most typical usage in that aspect would be to boost the contrast within the photograph in order to give you a crisper photo, and higher accuracy as well as quality. This particular use is particularly useful when you are shooting high speed objects.

Camera Flashes - Nikon SB 900

Although nearly all digital cameras will have in-built flashes, folks looking to create a bit more high quality or perhaps creative pictures will most likely make use of an additional external flash. Several products include the Canon Speedlite 430EX II, Canon Speedlite 580EX II, Nikon SB 700, and the Nikon SB 900. Each one of these camera flashes provides distinct functions and qualities, and so clearly will be far better for certain instances compared to some others. When picking the camera flash for the task, a digital photographer will need to take several things into account. Background illumination along with colour arrangement of one’s target can easily have a remarkable part, perhaps even outside the picture frame there can be points to consider. Shutter speeds, colour heat range (either present and also preferred), the actual position or perhaps lack of reflection things (light areas which bounce the flashlight, producing softened or re-directed lighting effects).

Camera Flashes - Canon 270EX

The actual features of your flash component itself should be taken into account too. Virtually all external camera flashes include some kind of capability to point and rotate, in order to more effectively navigate either upon the actual target itself or perhaps a close bounce area. Certain ones possess higher range of motion compared with some others, however, and may achieve jobs past the restrictions of their own competitors. It’s well worth your time and effort to actually see the flash that you’re looking into, when you can, and have an understanding for the way it could be controlled. A great deal of buying today is completed on the internet, however, and so a comprehensive research of actual user reviews as well as item photos could supply you with the right information about camera flashes.

Camera Flashes - Nikon SB 700

Being compatible can be a first concern, too. The majority of camera flashes tend to be suitable for digital cameras produced by precisely the same maker, apart from in instances regarding early versions. As soon as compatibility is guaranteed, it’s smart to give attention to the user interface. Most of the latest external flash units possess some pretty sophisticated user interfaces which allow them to get controlled through the digital camera’s features menus.

An introduction on how to use camera flashes with your DSLR camera:

There is lots to keep in mind when purchasing your camera flash. Select properly, making use of all the data that is accessible to you, and you will chose a flash that could suit your needs for a long time.

Which Canon Speedlite Camera Flash To Buy?

If you want to start making quality pictures and have never before found any reason to buy Canon Speedlite camera flashes, 430EX II and 580EX II are both recommended by experts, as they have enough features to obtain great images.

The Speedlite 430EX II model is one of the most popular DSLR accessories available, as it contains a big amount of functionality and power for an actually modest price, while the Speedlite 580EX II is Canon’s state-of-the-art model, being a professional external flash, and very few features are missing from this model.

As we can expect, Canon delivers only top-notch products, so the 580EX II features a wide range of controls, including Flash Exposure Compensation, abbreviated as FEC and also FEB, referred to as Flash Exposure Bracketing. Other such features are included, while one of the biggest advantages is its synch speed of 1/200 or 1/250.

As speaking about the Speedlite 430EX II, it does not even need to be fired toward the subject, as if the proper bounce surface is available, it will make stunning pictures.

In this video, photographer Phil Steele compares Canon Speedlite camera flashes and helps you decide which one to buy based on your needs.