Canon Speedlite 550EX TTL Flash

Pros: Two way head (right/left/up/down), fast cycle times, lots of manual control, external power plug.
Cons: Expensive, heavy, lots of rarely-used functions, no filter set, newer model out.

I've been taking pictures for a long time with both film cameras and recently with two digital snap and shoot type cameras. Within the last month I bought a EOS digital rebel (basically a stripped down version of the 10D body). The canon speedlights ...

Pros: Compact, powerful, accurate, professional strobe
Cons: None

The Canon Speedlite 550EX is the dedicated strobe for the EOS-3 body. Though it can be used with other bodies, the EOS-3 makes the best use of its features. The features include:

-Power: The 550EX has a top guide number of 180,(at ISO 100) in...

Pros: Professional, powerful, lightweight, durable, advanced flash metering, wireless flash, feature-packed and easy to use.
Cons: Very expensive, physically large and bulky.

The Speedlite 550EX is a powerful, high output flash with ETTL autoflash control. It can be mounted on the camera hotshoe or used as a master or slave unit in a wireless, multi-flash setup. When used on the latest EOS cameras (EOS-3, EOS-1V), it has ETTL...

Pros: Power Power Power and features galore
Cons: A couple of flimsy parts and price.

I purchased the 550 EX about 2 months ago to compliment my Canon EOS 10D. I guess the best way to describe my feelings for the flash, are mixed. On the positive I found the following: Ability to use bounce and swivel on it’s base (a neat ...

Pros: Power, features, exposure accuracy, ease of use
Cons: Price, and flimsy battery compartment.

I upgraded from the 420ez flash and what I first noticed was how large this flash is. I have been very impressed with the power and features of this flash.

When I was reading reviews I found a lot of people having problems while using the 10D but I haven't had any problems at all. I suggest getting a diffuser but the built in diffuser works a lot better than I expected for getting soft light.

Overall, if you have the money and need the features and power, this is the flash for you! I use it with a flash bracket, pocket bouncer and battery pack with NiMH batteries.