I just bought the 550ex speedlight for my DRebel. Almost bought it the week before but decided to get some feedback first. When I opened the box, I couldn't believe that the manual was almost as thick as my camera manual! For goodness sakes, it's just a flash, right? hehe Obviously there's a bit more to it than I initially thought there was.

Well, I don't have any pictures yet, as I'm only on page 18 of the manual and really don't know what I'm doing as of right now, but I promise that I'll "attempt" something this weekend and then post it. If anybody wishes to throw some tips my way or even some resources on using this speedlight I'd be much obliged. *he says in his best southern accent, which ain't very good* :)

Ray

I guess the great thing about digital is that you check check your results right away, which may be the perfect thing for a new flash. You've got arguably the best flash on the market ... I wouldn't get too, too bogged down in the often-confusing manuals, so grab the basics and let us see some results. :-)

EXACTLY!!!!!!

SET it to FP and ETTL and add/subtract flash comp as needed

IT'S NOT a hard flash to operate in a basic way that I just discribed

Thanks Charles and Paul. Indeed, after using it for a few hours over the weekend it seems relatively basic, although it will take a bit of practice to get used to it and get good at it. Experimenting with stroboscopic flash looks very interesting, I might add. I'm glad I opted for the 550ex.

Ray

AH and don't forget BOUNCING your flash too ;)

torturing my wife by practicing bounce flash in the jeep. Of course, the cab roof material wasn't much help here.

Ray