Need Flash advice for shooting a wedding

[Patt]

I'm heading to Ireland in a couple of weeks for a wedding, and the Bride and Groom just asked me to shoot their wedding casually. I just got my new camera last weekend, and haven't had much of a chance to play with it yet. I'm toying with the idea of having them buy me a flash so that my pictures get better lighting than with the on-camera flash.

Does anyone have any specific recommendations for a compatible flash? I don't want to break the bank necessarily, as I won't be doing a ton of flash photography, but it would be nice to have the option, especially if i don't have to pay for it

UPDATE: Bought the 430EX and love it. I really don't know any of the advance features, but I've already used it to full advantage taking shots of my infant daughter

 

[BornStar]

If you're talking about shooting the actual ceremony, most churches won't allow flash photography.

 

[Patt]

Originally posted by: BornStar
If you're talking about shooting the actual ceremony, most churches won't allow flash photography.

It actually isn't in a church, but in an old temple in Northern Ireland. Good point though, I should check that out!

 

[foghorn67]

The 430EX would be perfect. Only one stop less powerful than the bigger brother (580EX), feature rich and compact. Decent recycle time too.
I don't trust 3rd party shoe mount flashes except Metz.
I would avoid direct flash exposures. My flash is always bounced off a ceiling or wall. With a small card bouncing some catchlight into the eyes and sockets.
Even if it's not allowed in the church/temple, you will need a flash for almost everything else. Panda bear eyes aren't appealing.
If a flash isn't allowed during the ceremony, get a fast prime lens or two.
Or a fast zoom like a Tamron 17-50 2.8 or Sigma 24-70 2.8.

 

[Patt]

The only way I'll be getting a prime lens or two will be if they buy it for me ... I'm strapped because of the travel expenses at the moment, and other expensive hobbies (golf ...). I'm pretty sure they're most interested in the pictures along the cliffs outside the venue, and pictures at the reception.

I'm looking at the 430EX, and would love to have that sort flash, but can't afford it on my own. I'm going to place a strategic phone call now

 

[jpeyton]

Unfortunately Canon doesn't have any great "budget" options; the 430EX is around $250.

 

[Patt]

UPDATE: I did end up gettnig the 430EX ... and so far I love it. I haven't played with it much yet, but am sure it will help with the wedding shots!

 

[foghorn67]

This bud's for you!

Have another

 

[rudder]

Originally posted by: Patt

Originally posted by: BornStar
If you're talking about shooting the actual ceremony, most churches won't allow flash photography.

It actually isn't in a church, but in an old temple in Northern Ireland. Good point though, I should check that out!

Still... wedding patrons may not like a flash constantly going off. Or if someone is filming the wedding on video that would cause problems. Of course the only way to combat this is with a f/1.8 lens or a f/2.8 with IS and bump up the ISO.