First off there are a lot of comments on how expensive the Canon 580ex II flash is. I don't think so. It is really a best buy. Look at it this way: in the 1970's a Vivitar 283 cost around $70. Vivitar sold a boatload of these flashes. Now fast forward to 2007. A 580ex II is $350-$400. Compared to 1970 dollars with inflation and dollar valuations in 2007, that is right around $72. And look what you get:
Fast recycling times
ETTL II
Weather sealing
Master/slave control
Focus assist
Zoom head
and on and on...
The 580ex II works great with my 5D. I have used the 580ex II in conjunction with my older 550ex in multiple flash setups for formal lighting. If you use multiple flash with the Canon systems, please review Chuck Gardner's Canon flash tutorials (Google in on the web). Canon's instructions can be confusing on multiple flash but Gardner puts it all in perspective.
Over the 550ex the 580ex II has a few new features. The new flip lock shoe mount is great and quick. I do miss the one switch to change it to a master or slave flash. And getting the flash out of master/slave mode is confusing. I find the best way of getting it back to single flash mode is to open the battery compartment while the flash is on. This factory resets the flash. I believe another way is to push the reset button on a compatible Canon EOS camera.
Oh yes, as with the 550ex I find I have to increase flash exposure by +1 stop with the 580ex II. I don't consider this a fault of the flash, just my preference. And once the flash is set you forget it, the flash does all the work.
Get more detail about Canon Speedlite 580EX II Flash for Canon EOS Digital SLR Cameras.
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