Finally a 400D!

[calebk]

Ok... So I guess u're using Sigma EF500 DG Super too? My colleagues just recommended me this model too this morning. :bsmilie: How much is it ard? Within my original budget of $200-$250? My friend got his yrs back, :dunno: e current price. Thanks!

IIRC it's around $385. You might be able to get a used 430EX or 420EX within your budget. I'd actually recommend getting original Canon gear, unless you're really cash-strapped and have no options. The Sigma is a good performer, but it can be inconsistent, having issues like incorrect output, or even refusing to fire.

 

[lightning]

I have used the 420EX and 580EX before....both very good so far. the 580EX when set to manual mode....which I used most of the time....it is very consistent. Every pics are properly exposed. When batt is low...if will take a longer time to charge up, but if it fires...it will give the correct intensity...:thumbsup:

Strongly encourage you to look for a used unit within your budget...I had 2 friends who bougth the Sigma 500 super...but sold of after 3-6mths of usage. End up wasting about $100 - $150 by selling and buying a new Canon 580 EX.

Since you are now tight on budget...do not buy things in a rush...use your equipment and the build in flash first. Once you realised your real "need", then you go for it.

 

[unseen]

Nice pics... :thumbsup: Yeah, indeed they look clear with the 500DG.

Saw a guy asking u whether u're using Canon or Nikon over @ that thread. Got big diff between these 2 makes ah? Thought interested as I almost got myself the Nikon if not for the old set of lens which can't be used...

Thanks!

Yes, all the shots done with a 500DG super.
Probably a Nikon user asking. Possibly gonna harp that Nikon Flash is more consistent + better, which I'd agree.

As I've mentioned, if i'm shooting seriously I wouldn't use the 430ex.
Someone sorta dumped a 430ex on me, so i brought it out for a run in a club. After 10 shots with the 430ex, it's off my camera in favour of the 500DG super. It's simply not consistent. Not to mention, underpowered.

My flash is 1.5 years+ old, and it's still working very well.

FYI
A used Sigma flash is about $200+ abit.

 

[Stratix]

the sigma flash isn't bad at all actually, had been using it for a while (yes, i'm very very very poor too) and then upgraded to a 550EX.

the sigma flash is really capable as a flash, and probably beats the 430EX hands down in terms of power, recycle time and having onpar accuracy.

however, the one thing that made me upgrade is the AF assist beam on the Sigma. Sigma flashes only produces AF assist beams at the center AF point, and the full 9 point AF point. if you're using the other AF points individually and shooting in the dark, your lens might not focus due to the lack of AF assist beams (assuming you're close enough for AF beams to hit)

=)

 

[QuietBoi]

Thanks a lot bros for ur reviews... Seems like the Sigma DF500 DG still can meet my needs, except for the down side for 9-point AF assist as what Stratix mentioned.

Actually, went to the photo shop in my neighbourhood just now while on the way home, quoted me:

430EX = $480
580EX = $745
3rd Party battery is $48, original Canon is $118.
Dun hav Sigma flash.

:bigeyes: Wow... Another $745 if go for 580EX... :bigeyes: It's around that price everywhere hor? A new Sigma EF500 DG how much ah? Also ard $700?

Just wondering, would there be a big problem if I use original battery that comes with kit together with a 3rd party one in together the battery grip? Or is it better to have all 2 to be 3rd party safer? :think:

Would Cathay Photo probably offer a better deal for me if I buy those 3rd party flash & bat as mentioned? No time to go yet anytime soon...

Thanks!

 

[CWZ83]

Hmmm y not use 6 x AA batt for the batt grip instead?

 

[calebk]

Hmmm y not use 6 x AA batt for the batt grip instead?

Because it won't last you very long.

 

[QuietBoi]

Because it won't last you very long.

Is it??!! :bigeyes: How long could all 6 AA batteries last compared to 2 Canon batteries, assuming all fully charged (straight from the pack for AA batteries)?

Are the 3rd party batteries comparable with the original Canon batteries? Think the current one I have for G5 could last me ard 200 shots before K.O. 3rd party batteries can last that long as well?

I've thought of using the AA batteries as the final backup if the rechargeable batteries K.O... But if what Calebk said is true... Having 2nd thoughts le... :think:

Thanks!

 

[Kensuke]

i am using 3rd partry batts ... seems alrite for me , neb gib me ani much trouble ...
For Flash gun , 430 EX and 580 EX ... u won't regret it one ...

 

[unseen]

:bigeyes: Wow... Another $745 if go for 580EX... :bigeyes: It's around that price everywhere hor? A new Sigma EF500 DG how much ah? Also ard $700?

A new one is about $400 IIRC

 

[calebk]

Is it??!! :bigeyes: How long could all 6 AA batteries last compared to 2 Canon batteries, assuming all fully charged (straight from the pack for AA batteries)?

Are the 3rd party batteries comparable with the original Canon batteries? Think the current one I have for G5 could last me ard 200 shots before K.O. 3rd party batteries can last that long as well?

I've thought of using the AA batteries as the final backup if the rechargeable batteries K.O... But if what Calebk said is true... Having 2nd thoughts le... :think:

Thanks!

Canon indicates in the manual for their battery grips that AA batteries can be utilised for "get you home usage". In other words, it's a contingency kind of thing, not for mainstay usage.

 

[QuietBoi]

Called up Cathay Photo and they didn't have Sigma EF500 DG nor any 3rd party flashes & batteries. But the price they quoted for the 430EX & 580EX are cheaper than my photo shop in my neighbourhood.

Where else could I get hold of one Sigma EF500 DG?

Thanks.

 

[QuietBoi]

Canon indicates in the manual for their battery grips that AA batteries can be utilised for "get you home usage". In other words, it's a contingency kind of thing, not for mainstay usage.

Ok, thanks. Decided to try a 3rd party battery & see how it performs.

 

[mynameisjizeng]

haha. be sure to invest in a good range of lenses as well. in the future of course. and a tripod! i'm selling one! PM me if you're itnerested

 

[totoro17]

I bought Canon EOS 400D with kit lens at $1495 in IT SHOW 2007
Free: CANON Tripod, UV Filter Lens Cover, Bag, EOS Lens Book, Screen Protector and 2GB Ultra CF Card (High Speed).

is it cheap?

 

[USM]

I bought Canon EOS 400D with kit lens at $1495 in IT SHOW 2007
Free: CANON Tripod, UV Filter Lens Cover, Bag, EOS Lens Book, Screen Protector and 2GB Ultra CF Card (High Speed).

is it cheap?

Bro, don't bother whether it is cheap or not once you have made the purchase. You will definitely find a cheaper place to get these stuff. Just start using your camera to shoot and post your nice photos.

 

[QuietBoi]

Haha. be sure to invest in a good range of lenses as well. in the future of course. and a tripod! i'm selling one! PM me if you're itnerested

I already have 3 tripods, including the free one from the 400D purchase. :bsmilie: U have flash? I looking for one.

Thanks for ur offer though.