Canon Speedlite 430EX TTL Flash

If you are interested in learning about flash photography and its creative possibilities then this is the flash to get. The 220 is too small, too weak, and does not swivel, the 580 is too big and too expensive. The 430 (or the 420 if you can get a good used one), fits nicely in the middle. This is specially important if you are mainly interested in discovering whether you are into flash photography or not. The flash itself is designed beautifully and it gives you a lot of creative control (for example, you can decrease the output up to 1/64th). It provides easy Flash compensation as well and the easy swiveling allows for better looking bounced photos.