<p>I'm looking for recommendations on a hotshoe flash. I've been a serious amateur photographer for many years, but never put in the time and effort to really learn about using off-camera flash. Reading the manual for my flash was confusing enough to overwhelm me and put me off again and again.<br>
Anyhow, I've recently made it my goal to learn more about artificial lighting and have found some resources that did a good job of helping me understand the technical stuff. Unfortunately, I quickly found out that the flash I own is less than ideal for learning, as it doesn't have manual capabilities (it's a Canon Speedlite 420EX).<br>
Since I obviously don't know much yet about flash, I therefore don't know much about what to get, so I'm looking for advice or recommendations.<br>
Here's what I think I'm looking for:</p>
<ul>
<li>manual features</li>
<li>compatible with Canon 60d</li>
<li>good recycle time (I shoot bike races and trail runs for my club, and a faster recycle rate would help me miss fewer racers)</li>
<li>less than $200 (or should I spend a little extra and just get a used 580EX II?)</li>
</ul>
<p>Basically, I know there are good third-party flashes out there that are a better value than Canon brand, but I have no idea what's what. Thank you.</p>