Originally posted by Outis What would you recommend for actual flashes/controllers to get? I don't know nothing about anything.
I personally had this issue not even a month ago. I finally made the decision of buying a Metz flash. I found this website to be very helpful and really made my decision easy.
The Definitive Guide - Pentax P-TTL Flash Comparison. I’ll explain my decision below.
In short, Pentax branded flashes were a bit too expensive while other brands were lacking in either build quality or features. The best of the third party flashes is the Sigma and the Metz flashes (IMHO). I finally purchased the
Metz 44 for a few reasons, but these reasons may not resonate for you.
1. I already own a Youngo 560 III (great manual flash). What manual features the Metz is missing I have in the Youngo.
2. The swivel head on the Metz doesn't have the locking feature. I personally like this because I am always adjusting the flash and need the additional.
3. PTTL is working with the current firmware and can be upgraded should there be incompatibility later on.
I hope this helps you in your quest for flash photography!
---------- Post added 02-24-15 at 04:58 PM ----------
Originally posted by Zephos I've noticed that whenever I use the built in flash, my subject ends up looking very pale and unnatural. I assume this is because I'm either too close or my white balance is off. I never had this problem with my point and shoot but I'm trying to get better at photography and it seems my DSLR is very different when it comes to flash. Should I diffuse the light somehow? I'm just a beginner so I would appreciate any tips!
Perhaps the real question you are asking is how to get my on camera flash to look good and not buy additional flash equipment. While the flash on the camera can work in a pintch, it generally doesn't produce pleasing light and I do think an external flash will serve you well. Additionally you could consider buying a fast lense F2.8 or lower to let more light in and skip flash all together (only works in some situations).
In my opinion, your flash is probably too bright and you need to turn down the compensation. Also, it may be worth it to verify your camera settings (manual, tv, Av?) While flash compensation should get you where you want to go, understanding exposure will certainly help a lot.
To adjust your flash compensation hit the lighting bolt button on your camera (the flash button) and you will see a figure 0.0. Use the wheel to adjust the compensation up or down and take a shot. I bet down is your best bet.
Good Luck!