If you want to shoot wireless TTL (Nikon = CLS, Canon = AWS) and you don’t want to drop $300+ on each flash you buy, you might think you’re stuck. However, as I’m learning, there are some options. The Sigma EF-610 DG Super Flash, the Metz mecablitz 50 AF-1, and the Nissin Di622 Mark II Digital all support “wireless TTL” with Nikon gear (and there are equivalent models for Canon shooters). All of this clouds the issue how you use your off-camera flash guns. If you are shooting primarily manual (ala David Hobby), save your money and go with the LumoPro 160 or go really cheap with the Yongnuo 460 II, the $45 bargin flash. However, if you are a CLS/AWS shooter, it may be worth it to check out some of the 3rd party options. The Sigma ones catch my eye especially, as I’ve used a number of their lenses with great results in the past.

Not that I’m in a position at the moment to buy a bunch of different flashes and test them out. In another month or two, I’m likely to pick up a pair of something, but I’m not sure what yet.