I just use a small (eye glass) screw driver. It saves my brittle nails, and I put my cap on to save damage to the contact on the hotshoe. If anyone is concerned with that probability. It doesn't take up much room in my bag, either :-) .

Just want to say, I use a cart, similar to the carts in the grocery stores but smaller basket when I go out, because of a walking problem and can put my gear in basket, a monopod that I can expand to 59" , and also shake because of age related issues. I am in my 70's. I enjoy my hobby and helps me stay with it. I have the sx40, 2 canon speedlites, and quite a few little gadgets and use cpl quite a bit.

I was just about to say the same thing, then I saw this reply! thanks for informing the user that there is a hot shoe! I use my hot shoe all the time, and have the SX40, which I love. I use with the Canon 2 canon speedlites, one as master and one as slave at times. I am going to take a hard look at the next sx step up!

ps. The program also crashes every few minutes, causing me to have to re-boot. then start all over. Grrrrr.

Gorgeous shots! It is no wonder you love the lens. You do the lens justice.

Really nice set. Beautiful bird!

Not familiar with that transmitter, but it may not be compatible with your camera. You can, however use the 580 as the master, to a compatible slave, such as another 580, 430 from canon, or you can get a compatible hot shoe extension cord for the 580ex, they come in different lengths, attach your 580 to the cord and should work. Mine is made by Vello. I also use a 580ex 11 for master with a 430 (both ex's) when the cord would be in the way. I would suggest getting a book by David Busch "flash photography compact field guide" or the more complete "Speedliter's Handbook" geared to Canon products. You can order them used online at Alibris... Hope some of this helps...I do not have your camera, but I do have aCanon. Have you emailed Canon to ask about compatible transmitters? I know, not usually adequate response, but worth a try.

I have sx40, and had to send a filter back because of vignetting. I have NO problem with 67mm adapter and filter. Sx40 uses same as sx50.

If you do decide on the sx50, (I have sx40, and love it) get it earlyas possible and learn to work with it, read manual, practice with it. You will be more satisfied with the results and come home with better trip pictures if you do. You will also be able to gauge how many batts to take with you, cards etc. there will be differences but should be worthwhile taking the sx50 instead of all that other gear. Bet you would enjoy the longer reach without all of the switching out.

I like having the fence in the picture, it tells a better story. But the problem I see with the scene is that the animals are too close to the bottom of the picture. It looks out of balance. You need to back up a little to frame the photo better.

just be sure to use a reputable dealer!

I bought my 430ex at a good sale price, new, at b&h a few months ago, then when I wanted to use the master-slave setup, found a used 580 ex at adorama. Both working well. I like the canon because it is made to use the in camera settings, and will also adapt to zoom. You can get the new pricier canon 600 for not much more than the 580, which is not available new anymore, but both the 580 and 600 (which can be used as master) are heavier than the 430. It should be noted that the 430 cannot be used as a master. Since you would not at this time want to use the master-slave setup, the (new) 430ex would be my choice all over again, you can always add on the master unit if you should decide later, and still retain the ttl and in camera abilities that canon provides for canon cameras. It's a fine unit, and a new one would last a long time.

Beside checking the curtain setting, are you in manual or ttl? Also, is it flashing at all?
Maybe changing to fresh batteries will help?

You a a gem! I am between beginner and intermediate. My daughter has requested a very simple pattern, using one or two sizes of stitches, similar to the tiramisu pattern, only one piece, without the scallops and ribbon. She wants it pretty basic, like you would imagine in prairie/covered wagon days. Single crochet and maybe used with half double alternated, or chain st. Not too much bumpy texture.Pretty flat. I will probably put just a simple finishing edging on it . The hard part for me is how to figure the amount of yarn I would need to buy. She hasn't made up her mind whether one or two strands of worsted or # 5 wt she wants. I am going to make swatches of both so she can choose. She might decide cotton, it does make up nice in cotton. 24x24 is tiny but can throw you off trying to figure size changes. She will want to swaddle the baby and fold the corners down. need to know how many chains across to get the 24x24. I used to knit baby things, but have been crocheting afghans (simple) for grandchildren. You amaze me! How have you come to know so much about so many things. Anything you can do to get me started on this will be wonderful! Hope you enjoy your trip! Thanks a bunch! I really appreciate your help!

My Daughter does photography of newborns, and would like me to crochet small blankets for props.
Criteria, 24" X 24", or close.
Easy, Plain and Simple... with a old country look. we are using an "Oatmeal" or "Wheat", a Natural, rustic looking color,
We need pattern using worsted wt. yarn or larger. Can be more than one strand used at a time.
Need gauge, and amount of yarn needed for project.
I have been searching web for several days.
If anyone knows of a suitable pattern for this project, would really appreciate help!