Product Description

E-TTL II for compatible Canon EOS cameras and EF series lenses * LCD information panel * flash head can be tilted and swiveled for bounce flash * built-in wide-angle pull-down panel (covers focal lengths down to 14mm on a full-frame camera) * flash compensation settings * manual flash mode settings (full power to 1/64 power) * wireless E-TTL flash operation as a "slave" unit *

Product Details

• Brand: Canon
• Model: SL-430EX
• Dimensions: 2.00" h x 2.00" w x 6.00" l, 4.00 pounds

Features

• Replaces the Canon Speedlite 420EX Flash
• Automatic selection of camera white-balance settings and auto-adjustment of zoom flash position to match camera's sensor size
• Flash head zoom covers the range 24mm to 105mm; integrated diffusion panel allows extends coverage to 14mm
• Compatible with distance-linked E-TTL II system; supports other EOS cameras that do not support E-TTL II, when required
• Flash head moves up from 0 to 90 degrees, left from 0 to 180 degrees, and right from 0 to 90 degrees

From the Manufacturer
The Speedlite 430EX flash unit replaces the popular Speedlite 420EX. The Speedlite 430EX improves on many specifications of its predecessor and includes new features to maximize digital image quality when using a flash. These include automatic selection of camera white-balance settings and auto-adjustment of the zoom flash position to match the sensor size of the camera to which the unit is attached. The Speedlite 430EX has increased its guide number to 43 (m/ISO 100 at 105mm) and has approximately 40% faster recycling time than the Speedlite 420EX.

An ultra-bright, two-LED configuration focus assist-beam has been designed to be compatible with all focus points within the frame of all EOS AF systems, up to 9-point AF.

Optimum flash coverage
The flash head zoom covers the range 24mm to 105mm and an integrated diffusion panel allows extended wide-angle coverage to 14mm. When attached to digital EOS cameras with smaller than full-frame sensors (such as the EOS-1D Mark II N and EOS 20D) the Speedlite 430EX gives a more accurate flash coverage by detecting the model to which it is attached and automatically narrowing the angle of coverage. This has the effect of eliminating light loss in peripheral areas and extending the effective flash range.

Ideal white balance
The Speedlite 430EX automatically transfers color temperature information to recent models of digital SLR cameras . The camera then sets the white balance optimally for the flash shot. This feature works when the camera's white balance mode is set to Auto White Balance (AWB) or Flash white balance mode.

E-TTL II
The Speedlite 430EX is fully compatible with the distance linked E-TTL II system found on recent EOS cameras, and supports other EOS cameras that do not support E-TTL II, when required. For a complete multiple flash system, the Speedlite 430EX serves as a wireless slave when either the Speedlite 580EX, Macro Ring Lite MR-14EX, Macro Twin Lite MT-24EX, or Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2 is used as a master.

Upgrade for control
An intuitive and ergonomic interface includes an LCD panel for clear indication of modes and settings. A single bounce lock release button provides immediate control over the bounce head angle for flexible positioning of the flash head. The flash head can be moved up from 0 to 90 degrees (5 settings), left from 0 to 180 degrees (7 settings), and right from 0 to 90 degrees (4 settings). Six custom functions allow customization of the flash operations. Despite high power and short recycling times, the unit is small and lightweight.

Fully synchronized
Features include 1st and 2nd curtain flash synchronization, plus manual adjustment of flash output from full to 1/64 power (7 levels).

Accessories
An optional Speedlite Bracket SB-E1 (not included--must be purchased separately) allows the flash unit to be mounted to one side of the camera. Designed specifically for press and wedding photographers, it eliminates the red-eye that can occur when mounting a flash on the axis of the lens, such as on the camera hot shoe. Flash batteries are replaceable without removing the unit from the bracket.

Customer Reviews

THE RIGHT OMNI BOUNCE FOR 430EX
If you need a light diffuser for this flash and you're considering the Sto-Fen Omni-Bounce, keep in mind there are quite a few different OB models for different flash guns.

I've found the Omni-Bounce =MZ3= actually works with the 430EX. The MZ3 is marked for Nikon SB-28 & 28DX and Minolta 3500xi flash units, but it also fits the Canon 430EX quite well, in my case anyway. Highly recommended.

Meets and exceeds needs exactly for an intermediate Rebel XT user
Bought for $240 at bhphotovideo.com

Great first flash, can be slave after buying next level up (ie- 580).

Biggest advantage for me: built-in focusing system (AF Assist Lamp), can pretty much focus in pitch black. Perfect for 350 users like me who only have a 7 point system which is horrible in low light.

- All the necessary functions plus manual (great simple start for beginners)
- Neat button layout
- Not too big or too heavy (like 580).
- Rotation is completely satisfactory.
- Powerful enough to fill most average sized rooms and even small churches from own experience.
- Decent refresh rate for most use.

Worth the money for those who are taking their hobby to the next level but can't spend a fortune.

My gear: Digital Rebel XT, 18-55mm f3.5-5.6, 50mm f1.8
And this flash complements it very well.

Great Flash
An external flash is so important to good photographs and this one is great. I have a Canon 30D and my photos using the 430X are much better than the ones taken using the camera's built-in flash. This flash is easy to use and has lots of extras. I would highly recommend it.