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Canon Flashgun

There are three types of Canon Flashgun, all of which are a big improvement over any inbuilt pop-up flash. Here you will discover the pros and cons of each one when used for wildlife photography.

They all use Canons latest technology (e-ttl II), can swivel up (bounce head) and have an AF (Auto Focus) assist beam to allow your camera to focus in the dark.

For an explanation of some of the terminology and why its important click here.

Canon Speedlite 270 EX

This is Canons cheapest, smallest and lightest entry level flashgun. One of its benefits over the 430EX II or 580EX II is its size – you can fit it into your shirt pocket.

Only buy the 270EX for wildlife photography
if your budget is very tight.

I strongly recommend looking at the 430EX II instead because of its extra features and power (see below).

Range: 27 meters / 89 feet, ISO 100 at 50mm.

Swivels left and right: No.

Swivels up: Yes.

Time between flashes for battery to recharge: Normal: 0.1 to 3.9s, quick flash: 0.1 to 2.6s.

Canon Speedlite 430EX II

This is Canons mid-range flashgun. It has a lot of power and features for its price and is a good flashgun for wildlife photography especially when combined with a Better Beamer.

Range: 43 meters / 141 feet, ISO 100 at 105mm.

Swivels left and right: Yes (180 degrees left, 90 degrees right).

Swivels up: Yes.

Time between flashes for battery to recharge: 3s with alkaline batteries. 2s with NiMH batteries.

Canon Speedlite 580EX II

This is a top of the range Canon flashgun - there isn't much that it doesn't do. The main benefits that it has over the 430EX II are:

It is more powerful.
It can be used as a master in a Canon wireless system. However if you do buy a 430EX II and later decide to use this feature, you can always buy a 580EX II and use the 430 EX II as a slave.
It can be powered from an external power source.
The AF assist works with all 45 focus points on 1 series bodies rather than just 9.
It is weather sealed.

Its only real disadvantage is its price!

Range: 58 meters / 190 feet, ISO 100 at 105mm.

Swivels left and right: Yes (180 degrees left and right).

Swivels up: Yes.

Time between flashes for battery to recharge: Normal: 6s, quick flash:3s.

Canon Flashgun

Canon Speedlite 270 EX

Canon Speedlite 430EX II

Canon Speedlite 580EX II

Further Reading