Canon Speedlite 580EX II Shoe Mount Flash

I wanted this flash as it has the full benefits of being able to act as a master or slave unit along with being very versatile. The head of the flash can be moved 180 degrees either direction left or right and 90 degrees up and 7 degrees down. This is a big thing for me as I didn't want to be limited when out shooting as I never know what I will come across and need equipment that can back up the techniques I wish to use. The flash is capable of reaching up to 58 meters which is a massive distance and will cover any location you are present at whether it is in a Cathedral or Nature reserves.
The flash is directly aimed to be within Canon's pro range and although Canon has just launched their new 600 EX flash this is still a must buy becuase for one thing the 600 EX is around twice the price but also it is still a more than capable flash. The main feature within the 600 EX is that it is using radio technology rather than an infra red transmitter/receiver, which has benefits like a greater operational range but you can always buy an Hahnel radio receiver/transmitter hot shoe adapter for £50 which will work with your camera and alongside the 580 EX II.Even though it is aimed within the pro range it still has fully auto settings like the TTL II which will adjust depending on different criteria being seen by lens and analyses the light coming off the main focal points service and makes it usable by any level of photographer. The Flash is very well built and things like the battery compartment seem like they will not break easily and it also has a handy lock so the batteries will not spill out randomly.
The flash is weather sealed as well which is great for people like me that prefer outdoor photography like wildlife, landscapes and architecture etc where the weather can be unpredictable at the best of times. The flash also has up to 14 custom settings where you can program specific set-ups for different situations.One thing I will mention is that the recycling of the flash after setting it off is completely silent and is very fast to recharge and is ready to go fairly instantly depending on the camera settings you have dialled in. The only noise comes from when the bulb is adjusting forwards and backwards within the flash to match the focal length of the lens.
The flash comes with a shoe mount stand which is handy if you have another flash with the master capability or a camera with a built in infra red transmitter because then you can have the 580 EX II flash standing off camera for more creative lighting options.
It also comes in a nice case which is made of a rugged material, which will protect the flash from most knocks and bumps and is handy because you can separate it from the rest of your expensive equipment in your bag, so there is no chance of scuffs or scratches occurring.
Overall I am very happy with this hot shoe mounted flash and I aim to take full advantage of the great features/capabilities of this product.

If you shoot Canon this is the flash to get.
Nice guide numbers, excellent recycle time, and good battery life too!
TTL works like a charm and there is loads of manual options that can sparkle your creativity!
It's also weather sealed!
The price is about right and it's a great alternative for the new outrageous overpriced Speedlite 600EX-RT.

Canon 580 EX II It's the ultimate (to the 2011) Flashlite for Canon. It's sightly powerful (g.n.58), faster in recharge than previous versions (580 EX and 550). Can master 3 slave Falsh groups, has full auto ETTL and manual controls, personalized functions, possibility to increase endurance and recharge speed with specific external battery pack, and has: built in diffusor and reflection panel for enlighting eyes. E step more far than 430 EXII, anyway a good cheaper flash.

if you want to buy flash this is the best for you.
i use the 430 ex for 1 year en it damge my canon camera because it dont have the safety close in the head o the camera flash... know im use the 580 is the best flash ever

No need to say it is the best flash you can get if you don't want to use RF transmitters ( which I hate). I have it working with 2 canon speedlites 480II slaves and they all work as a charm. if you still want to use RF transmitters, I recommend radiopoppers.com.