Sigma EF-530 DG ST Electronic Flash for Canon DSLR: Customer Reviews & Product Details

I bought this flash mainly to take sports actions shots at night football games. Simply put, the flash controls are limited, the flash has a VERY SLOW recycle time and after doing about 30 test shots, the flash didnt work. It would fire only every 1 out of 8 shots I took. I end up returning it to Amazon. I had no problem returning it and getting a refund. I end up buy the Sony Alpha flash at $299. More expensive, but it works great and does what I want.

A powerful flash, well priced alternative for the Sony Alpha system. I am getting good results at 60 foot plus distances even with 300mm focal lengths. Well worth the price.

I'm not a prosumer or a pro photographer. I basically wanted something that's better than the the built in flash abut not spend big bucks. I have to say that this flash fits the bill. Great for all those "portrait" moments that you want to keep.

First let's start off with the good things:

-powerful guide number

-tilt swivel head

-focus assist lamp (works great!)

-good (but could be better) build quality

Now with the cons:

-huge size. Not a problem for me but some people find it bad.

-the on/off/mode switch is really tiny and requires precision to switch. This becomes frustrating when you need to turn on the flash quickly.

-only three modes (ttl, full power, 1/16 power)

-bad manual

-no click position on 45 or 30 degrees (tilt)

Overall this is a really basic flash. In the ttl mode your camera picks the right exposure for you. In the full and 1/16 power modes you have to set the exposure for your self. The zoom function seems to work good, but there is no manual control to it (unlike in the Super edition). The fastest shutter speed with it is the same as with the built-in flash (1/180 on K200D). So if you want a good flash with which you can go pro go for the Super edition. But if you are a beginner this is a really powerful basic flash for the money.

I got this flash after returning the Bower flash which was kaput on arrival. I purchased this flash knowing that Sigma is more reputable than Bower and tests their products before marketing them. It is Made in Japan and works with Sony's ADI-TTL system with pre-flash. The only negative comment I have is that the flash tends to underexpose the shot when the background has no reflectance value like a window. Other that that, all shots came back properly exposed. Anyhow, it is a huge flash and worth the money. Until I can afford to buy the Sony flash, this will do just great.