The first big decision is whether you want a manual flash or a TTL flash.

TTL (through-the-lens) flash works with the camera’s metering system to help set flash output automatically. That can be very helpful for a beginner, especially for indoor events where subject distance and lighting change quickly.

A manual flash requires you to set the flash power yourself. It can be cheaper and is great for learning, but it’s slower and less convenient when conditions change from shot to shot.

For portraits and indoor functions, TTL is often the easier starting point because it reduces guesswork and helps you work faster. If your main goal is to learn lighting in a controlled way and keep costs down, a manual flash can still be a good option.

So before buying, focus first on the flash control type:

• TTL for convenience and changing situations
• Manual for lower cost and hands-on learning

Also make sure any flash you choose is compatible with Canon’s hot shoe and flash system.