Help with Flashes

[Zach]

Hey guys, I am getting more into of camera lighting, and as such, I am in the market for a couple slave flashes. I have a 580EX II and I am not sure if I should go with something simple, like a couple Sunpak or Vivitar flashes ~ 60 bucks each, or go with some ETTL II compatible flashes like the 430 EX models.

I have read a bunch of the strobist discussion threads, but am still unsure about which flashes are compatible with the 580's triggering systems and such. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks guys.
-Zach

[nicklk]

Most "strobists" go with Vivitars and ebay triggers. And they work quite well. Nicer combo is Pocket Wizards

You can use 430's as slaves from the 580. Draw back about that is that the IR's have to be inline perfectly.

[Mario]

I shoot with Canon Speedlite's and Pocket Wizards. As soon as the new Radio Poppers are available I will be upgrading to those.

There's no real right or wrong answer... it's all about what you need.

And the eBay triggers are absolute shit. You're kidding yourself if you think they work well.

[Zach]

So which speedlights do you shoot with Mario? Is there a flash I could get that could be a slave and triggered without radio triggers?

[Mario]

I shoot with 580EX's and 430EX's. The Canon Speedlites and Nikon Speedlites feature built-in optical triggers. Optical triggers require line of sight, and are awful outdoors.

There are various lower-cost radio trigger systems (Elinchrom and Quantum come to mind)... but you really do get what you pay for.

[Kwando]

speaking of flashes i will be picking up a 430ex soon.

[Mario]

For anyone looking more into wireless flash, Radio Popper just released their JrX system. It's supposed to be better than Pocket Wizards, 30% smaller than them, and also less then half the price. I've got a sample set of the PrX's arriving in a couple weeks and will be giving them a shot out.