Thank you so much for all your replies. They've been a huge help.


Up until now, I've never been big on flash photography but I don't now whether that's more to do with using the on-camera flash. I get pretty ordinary results with it. Perhaps an external flash will open up a whole new world!


My first thought was if I was going to get a flash I'd be a well just to get the 580EX II and be done with it. I wouldn't be wondering what if and also it seems to have more possibilities for the future. But now I'm leaning more towards the 430EX II. Matt and Neuroanatomist's points about spending the extra on lenses make a lot of sense. I think perhaps the 580 would be overkill for my needs which for now at least will be pretty much interior shots when there's no other option, and just out and about with my camera in daytime.


Just wondering, how much of an improvement are either flash over an on-camera one.


Best wishes.