Introduction
In the previous articles in this series, we explained the basic concepts and functions of the flash: guide number, manual control, TTL mode, HSS, zoom, head tilt and swivel, as well as recycle time and overheating. At the end of this article you will find a short list of all the articles in the series, in case you want to look up any of these terms.
Today the market offers a large number of models from various manufacturers, with a wide range of features, sizes, weights, and prices. This can make choosing a suitable flash seem difficult from the start. But it doesn't have to be. Before buying a model, it's a good idea to determine how we intend to use it (for example family photos, travel, portraits, or off-camera flash) as well as how much we are willing to spend. Then we look at a few key characteristics.
Features to consider
Compatibility: We make sure the flash is compatible with our camera, especially if we want to use features such as TTL and HSS. Compatibility is essential for taking advantage of the flash's automation and advanced functions. Flashes with basic features, usually the more affordable models, can work on the hot shoe (on top of the camera) on almost all camera brands. In contrast, flashes with more advanced features (TTL and HSS) come in separate versions for each camera manufacturer. For example, the Godox TT685 is available in versions for Nikon (TT685N), Canon (TT685C), Fujifilm (TT685F), and others.
Power: Power is usually expressed as the Guide Number (GN). A flash with a GN of about 40–60 offers enough power for most of an amateur photographer's needs. However, GN should not be the only selection criterion, since the real usefulness of the power also depends on distance, aperture, ISO sensitivity, and how the flash is used.
TTL: TTL mode allows the camera to automatically calculate the flash power required. It is especially useful when the distance to the subject changes frequently, such as in family photos, events, or street photography.
Size and weight: Some flashes are so small that they literally fit in a photographer's pocket. They are ideal when portability is a priority, but they usually have less power and limited capabilities, such as a narrower zoom range, limited head rotation, or fewer wireless options. Larger models, on the other hand, usually offer more power and features, at the cost of greater weight and bulk.
Manual power control: This is essential when we want full control over the lighting. Ideally, the flash should allow settings from 1/1 down to at least 1/64 or 1/128 of maximum power.
HSS: High-Speed Sync allows the flash to be used at shutter speeds higher than the camera's maximum normal sync speed. It is especially useful for outdoor portraits, when we want to use a wide aperture even in strong natural light.
Zoom head with tilt and swivel: A head that can tilt and rotate allows us both to adjust the coverage angle and to bounce light off walls and ceilings. It is one of the most important features of a versatile flash.
Wireless operation: If we plan to use the flash off-camera, we choose a model with a built-in wireless system or compatibility with a suitable transmitter. This capability is especially important when we want to use one or more flashes in creative lighting setups.
Battery: More affordable models usually use AA or AAA batteries, rechargeable or alkaline, which are bought separately. Many more expensive models use a dedicated rechargeable Li-ion battery, which usually offers longer battery life and shorter recycle times between shots. Studio flashes, especially the cheaper ones, often have no battery and plug directly into the mains.
Recycle time: The shorter the recycle time, the faster the flash is ready for the next shot. This matters especially when shooting in quick succession or photographing moving subjects.
What flash do I need?
The table below can help with the choice, depending on how the flash will be used.
| Use | Key features | Useful extra features |
|---|---|---|
| Family photos | TTL, moderate power, head with tilt and swivel | Zoom head, wireless operation |
| Travel | Small and light, TTL, moderate power, head with tilt | Zoom head, HSS, wireless operation |
| Portrait | TTL, manual mode, GN 40–60, head with tilt and swivel | HSS, zoom head, wireless operation |
| Off-camera flash | Manual power, wireless communication, sufficient power | TTL, HSS, fast recycling, control of multiple flashes |
| Professional use | High power, TTL, HSS, fast recycling, reliable wireless communication | Li-ion battery, overheating resistanceLi-ion, αντοχή σε υπερθέρμανση |
| Studio photography | Very high power, stable performance, easy mounting of light modifiers | TTL, HSS, fast recycling, wireless operation |
Conclusion
For the average amateur photographer, a flash with satisfactory power, TTL, manual power control, HSS, a zoom head, tilt and swivel capability, and wireless operation is a very good and versatile choice. However, if travel and portability are the priority, a smaller and lighter model may be preferable, even if it has less power and fewer features. If, on the other hand, the flash will be used only in a studio, a studio flash is the better choice, even without a battery.
Ultimately, the best flash is not necessarily the most powerful or the most expensive, but the one that meets the photographer's real needs without adding unnecessary weight and cost to their kit.
Essential accessories
Buying a flash is only the beginning. For more creative results we will soon need a few accessories, mainly light modifiers: tools that change the quality, direction, or shape of light, whether it comes from a flash, from continuous light, or from the sun (softboxes, umbrellas, reflectors, snoots, etc.).
Below are three suggestions, scaled by equipment and cost.
Because of the wide range of products and fluctuating prices, the cost estimates are non-binding and give only an order of magnitude. Prices correspond to October 2026.
Combination A: Minimum cost
To get started at the lowest possible cost, a simple equipment combination can consist of:
• 1 flash with wireless operation, for on-camera and off-camera use: approx. €90
• 1 light stand: approx. €30
• 1 umbrella: approx. €20
• 1 wireless trigger with simpler functions: approx. €40
With this basic equipment we can already move the flash off the camera and experiment with the position, direction, and quality of the light.
Estimated cost: approx. €180
Combination B: Portable portrait
For a more complete yet still portable portrait system, we can choose:
• 1 powerful flash with wireless operation: approx. €150
• 1 softbox or larger umbrella: approx. €60
• 1 sturdier light stand: approx. €70
• 1 reflector: approx. €20
• 1 wireless trigger: approx. €40
This combination can be used both indoors and outdoors and offers far more control over the light than a flash mounted on the camera.
Estimated cost: approx. €340
Combination C: Small studio
For a small studio with more capabilities, we can use:
• 2–3 light sources, such as studio flashes or powerful speedlights: approx. €450 for three light sources
• Softboxes, umbrellas, snoots, and other light modifiers: approx. €180 for three light sources
• 2–3 sturdy light stands: approx. €210 for three stands
• Reflectors: approx. €20 for one reflector
• Background: approx. €80 for a small support system and backdrop
• 1 wireless trigger with more advanced functions: approx. €80
Even with two light sources we can create a wide range of lighting setups. A third source can be used, for example, as a background light or as a rim/hair light.
Estimated cost: approx. €1,000
Build your kit gradually
We don't need to buy everything at the start. One flash, one stand, one umbrella, and one trigger are enough to begin experimenting with artificial lighting.
As we gain experience, we can add a softbox, a second flash, a reflector, a snoot, or other accessories. This way, our system evolves along with our photographic needs.
The goal is not to acquire as much equipment as possible, but the right equipment for the lighting we want to create.
Previous articles in the flash series
• An Introduction to Flash Photography
• Flash sync speed
• Flash Power Stops and Flash Head Zoom Settings
• Guide Number and Manual Mode of Flash Units
• TTL and the Light Meter
