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Lens + Flash combo? Anonymous
Hey guys, I have a 30D and a 50mm f/1.4 and it works out fine for casual use.

Christmas is coming and I want to get a standard zoom lens and possibly a flash. I can spend up to 1,000$USD.

I want to shoot low light indoors and while the 50mm serves me well, I want the flexibiliy of a zoom.

I'm thinking for the cheapest possible solution: EF-S 18-55mm with IS and the Speedlite 580 for around 500$.

Or the mother of all EF-S lenses: EF-S 17-55 f/2.8 IS and go without a flash.

I've considered some L lenses like the 17-40, 24-70 and 24-105 but 2 of those are f/4.0 and the one that's 2.8 isn't wide enough.
EXIF data available. Clickhereto show/hide.
Camera-Specific Properties:Equipment MakeCanonCamera ModelCanon EOS 5DMaximum Lens Aperturef/1.8Image-Specific Properties:Horizontal Resolution72 dpiVertical Resolution72 dpiImage Created2007:09:28 16:53:13Exposure Time1/6 secF-Numberf/11.0Exposure ProgramManualISO Speed Rating200Lens Aperturef/11.0Exposure Bias0 EVMetering ModePatternFlashNo Flash, CompulsoryFocal Length85.00 mmRenderingNormalExposure ModeManualWhite BalanceAutoScene Capture TypeStandard
>> ac !!VPzQAxYPAMA
I'd say get the 18-55 IS and spend the rest on flash gear (strobist ftw). You can get the 18-55, a cheap flash like a Vivitar 285HV, and the random bits of gear you need to take that flash off-camera for well under $500 total. Or you can pop for the Canon flash if you really need TTL flash metering. I've got a 285HV and almost never use it on-camera anyway, so lack of TTL isn't an issue for me.
>> BlackAdder !!bSWRwu/NqzQ
Do you really need that Canon 580? You could get the 430 for a lot less if you don't need all that power or a master for your other flashes. It's probably overkill unless you absolutely know you need it.

ac's suggestions are pretty good and well worth considering instead of your initial suggestions. Have a look on Strobist to see the merit in it. The 18-55 IS does seem to be the new best bargain (tied with the 50mm 1.8 maybe, but you have a good 50 already).
>> Anonymous
>>95171

While I'm generally cheap, when I buy something I'd rather have the little extra than save the money and regret it later.

Just like getting the 50mm 1.4 instead of 1.8, the money saved doesn't justify it.

The 580 is stronger, recycles faster and can be a master as you said. The 430 isn't that much cheaper.
>> BlackAdder !!bSWRwu/NqzQ
>>95172

What flashes do you have that you need a master for?
>> Anonymous
>>95174

None for now but as I told you in the other thread, I will get the 30D repaired when it fails and upgrade to the soon-to-be 5D replacement so I'll be able to control secondary flashes. I'm just future proofing things.
>> BlackAdder !!bSWRwu/NqzQ
>>95179

It is kind of hard to tell who is who when you post anonymously, remember. I can't guess who is who in those cases. I think if you're laying out the cash for a new 5D kit then the flash is small fry by comparison, but as long as you have a reason for it in mind and you will actually use all it's capabilities it's all good. I just didn't want to see you spend your budget on something you might never use when you could squeeze a little more out of the cash by spending it differently. It's easy to get carried away or think you have to have the latest and greatest and regret it.
>> Anonymous
>>95195

I thought you were a mod and could check IPs.

Anyway, the 5D will be paid for by my "gadget budget" whenever it comes out. The 30D I have is old.

This is just a Christmas spending spree thing.

Anyway, back on topic. My problem right now is I like the fast aperture on my 50/1.4. But I need a zoom and they're only as fast as 2.8.

So I'd like to get a flash, any kind of flash if that helps you think, with the rest of the money going on the lens.
>> BlackAdder !!bSWRwu/NqzQ
>>95230

If you want to use the flash on full manual control all the time then the cheaper flashes like Vivitars and Sunpaks that are made for digital cameras would be an effective choice. I know people choose them as small and portable flashes for off-camera flash, mini studio work and so on. Strobist mentions these things in detail and I'd recommend reading up on their suggestions and guides.

If you want a hotshoe flash with ETTL metering the 430 is good for most things and will save some money. It will still be useful even if you get a 580 in the future. The 580 can be the master and the 430 the slave in your set up. Both compatible with each other as they are Canon made, of course. I've used the 430 at a wedding before without any trouble. Put in some good batteries and it will cycle fast enough. If I spend time composing between each shot then it'll be ready for me.

If you know you'll really need every last bit out of the flash and absolutely the fastest cycling, stroboscopic functions and highest power so you can get that vital money shot of Paris Hilton forgetting she wasn't wearing underwear, such as the pros pushing them hard and abusing them then the 580 makes more sense.

I'd feel bad suggesting something that's not going to be cost-effective. If after considering it all you still feel it is the must-have flash for you as you need the extra features or controls, then that's good and you should go for it. As long as you've done the homework.
>> BlackAdder !!bSWRwu/NqzQ
>>95252

The 18-55 IS is a nice lens for money, I can't see anybody being disappointed with it. The price for getting a wide lens with IS is something I'd happily pay for if I didn't already have that focal length covered. The 17-55 is great and has that attractive 2.8 aperture but the price is much higher and if that means a lack of a flash then it might limit you more depending on what you are planning to do. What your plans for this is important on deciding your best purchase.

The 17-40 is a very nice lens. There's no doubt about that. Coupled with a flash you might have all the light you need to worth with that f/4 lens if you've been considering that one. If you don't need a narrow DOF and non-flash dim light work it'd be fine for a lot of things.

Are you really keen on doing portraits and that is why you need the wide aperture?
>> ac !!VPzQAxYPAMA
>>95255
On the other hand, if he's sure he's getting a 5D, buying an EF-S lens might not be the best idea.
>> Anonymous
I'm only getting the 5D replacement in like 2 years. Any EF-S I acquire during that time can go on the 30D, I have none right now so it's not like it's a problem.

The thing that has me on the fence about the 18-55 is that I might not feel confident using it without the flash as I'd like to make it my main standard zoom.

Yeah sure, it's capable of taking great shots but if all else being equal, the keeper rate on any other lens will be higher.

17-40 L might not be too bad but I'd have to see if I'm okay with shooting at maximum f/4.0.
>> Anonymous
OP, post some of your indoor 50/1.4 photos :( I want one.