I also posted on the begginers forum. But maybe this is the right forum to post this question.What would offer the most features/solid package and ease of use? Metz 50 af-1 and 44 af-1, nissin di622 mark II, and canon 430 ex II. I will be using a canon T2i (550D)Which one do you prefer?Regarding canon's will I miss the bounce card? And how could I trigger the flash off camera without buying the canon transmitter or a 580 ex, since the unit doesn't have a port? Sorry for the newbie question.. Thanks

Maybe also consider the two new Canon flashes. Both have wireless control (although you will need to get a wireless transmitter for your T2i). the EX320 has a video strobe that might come handy if you shoot videos.These flashes are supposed to be in the market next month, and are pretty affordable.http://learningdslr.com/2011/03/canon-announces-two-new-speedlite-flashes-320ex-270ex-ii/

I recently delved into the world of flash photography with my T2i and choose the inexpensive route. I purchased a Yongnuo YN-468. It's not the most powerful flash out there (at least into comparison to a couple of the models you listed) but for the price, the feature selection is fantastic. E-TTL support, AF-assist beam, LCD screen(no hard to interpret blinking LEDs), 1/3-stop exposure steps down to 1/128 power, built-in diffuser/bounce card, multi strobe function, fully manual control including zoom head, 2 optical slave modes(for triggering the flash off camera with the T2i's popup flash), and more all for $90 shipped from eBay.To trigger off camera I purchased the Yongnuo RF-602 radio trigger system for about $25. It doesn't support wireless E-TTL but I'd rather be forced into understanding the principles of flash exposure anyway through manual trial and error. It works perfect. The radio trigger will most likely work with any of the other flashes you are considering also, as an alternative to the bulky and expensive Canon transmitter.I've been nothing but thrilled with this combination thus far. At the very least, if and when I upgrade the flash, the YN-468 will still function perfectly well as a second strobe via the slave modes for more complex lighting setups.Check out the review of the YN-468 (and some other flashes) athttp://speedlights.nethttp://speedlights.net/2010/10/10/yongnuo-yn-468-flash-review/Here is one I took yesterday with the 468 and trigger: Well the dpr galleries are being screwy so here it is on flikr http://www.flickr.com/photos/89665957@N00/5531639781/

I use the Nissin Di622 with my 450d and it produces great results. It also works well as a slave off of the on-board flash as well, although in manual power mode only.It gives a good broad light, and works well with the E-TTL of the 450d when on the hotshoe. I found it more versatile than the Metz 36AF4 (which I took back due to questionable build quality around the battery door, and the fact that my first copy died after 4hrs), partially due to it having a swivel-body.However, if you wanted to use it wirelessly without it being a slave (i.e. with a wireless trigger) be aware that a lot of the ebay-specials don't support the Nissin.

Thank you. The yongnuo option seems very intersting as well. Although not sure if I want to jump head on to manual.Right now the meta 50 af-1 is basically the same price as the nissin. Any experience with Metz?

another one to consider is the Vivitar DF-383. it has a fair amount of features for the price.

One of important feature not to overlook - at least for me - is HSS function. This is one significant reason I traded my Nissin 622. All the Canon flash mentioned have this feature.

I am using the new Metz 50 AF1 since a couple of months with the 550d. Very good build quality and performance - no problems at all. However you will find few people who have really compared a number of recent flash models - I can't really say how the Metz compares to the other options.

Thank you. Do you feel the extra size of the Metz 50 af-1?