For newcomers: Get A Flash First...

[lawrencenajarro]

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Lawrence: You'll see red grid patterns... Try this simple test. Walk into a pitch-dark room, use a slow lens (like a kit lens) then just half-press... You'll see grid red lines through your viewfinder.

David, I attached my efs 18-135mm on m 60d, turned off the lights of my room, then half-press the shutter button but did not find any red grid lines on the viewfinder. Aside from the red grid lines that should have appeared on my viewfinder, are they any indicators that the AF-assist beam of my 580ex II is working? This hard plastic portion of the 580 II where the external metering sensor and AF-assist beam emitter are located...is there an indicator in it that lights up when I half press the shutter button to show the af-assist beam does function?

[lawrencenajarro]

David, thanks for the assistance. My problem was solve courtesy of Tatum Sebastian of Paranaque Photography Team. AF assist of the 580 ex II will not work on AI servo.

[David Tong]

Hehe, you didn't mention AI-Servo though ;) Yes, tracking AF and AF-assist don't mix, doesn't make sense for them to be working together unless the AF assist light never turns off.

[Rhenz Wilfred Carlos]

430 ex II or 580 ex II, for a 600D body? Still a beginner.

[Neil Bryan Sietereales]

Hi Sir David,

I own a Canon 550D and im thinking of buying an external flash for it. Im thinking the Canon Speedlite 430EX, but its kinda expensive for me. Can you recommend me other brands besides the one I mentioned? Not sacrificing performance and quality. Thanks!

BTW, I love your guide to photography links

[marbinsantos]

Planning to buy sb600 or if budget permits a sb800 for my bodies!Great Thought i this thread!

[MichUribe]

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Even my classmate said that I have to buy a flash first before the lens.